Thinking of taking your beloved canine companion on an American Airlines flight? It's a fantastic idea! Traveling with your dog can create unforgettable memories, but it requires careful planning and adherence to airline regulations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry friend.
Step 1: Is Your Dog Eligible to Fly American Airlines? Let's Find Out Together!
Before you even think about booking, the very first question to ask yourself is: Can my dog even fly with American Airlines? This isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, as American Airlines has specific policies regarding the size, breed, and travel method for dogs. Let's break down the possibilities:
Sub-heading 1.1: In-Cabin Travel (The Most Popular Choice!)
For many pet parents, having their dog right there with them in the cabin is the ideal scenario. American Airlines allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin if they meet certain criteria.
Size Matters: Your pet, including their carrier, must be small enough to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. While specific dimensions can vary slightly by aircraft, a good rule of thumb for soft-sided carriers is approximately 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm). For hard-sided kennels, it's generally around 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm) for mainline flights and 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm) for regional flights (American Eagle). Always double-check with American Airlines reservations for exact dimensions for your specific aircraft.
Weight Limit: The combined weight of your pet and carrier typically cannot exceed 20 lbs (9.07 kg).
One Pet Per Carrier (Usually): Generally, only one pet is allowed per carrier. However, two puppies or kittens of the same species (two dogs or two cats), between 8 weeks and 6 months old, and each weighing less than 20 lbs, may travel in the same kennel.
Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel in the cabin within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Destination Restrictions: In-cabin pet travel is generally permitted on flights within the 48 contiguous United States, to/from Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean (based on specific country's entry policy), Alaska, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas. Important: Pets are generally NOT permitted in the cabin on transatlantic or transpacific flights.
Behavior and Health: Your dog must be well-behaved, not disruptive, and appear healthy enough for travel. Sedated or tranquilized pets are generally not accepted.
Sub-heading 1.2: Checked Pet (Limited Availability)
As of recent policies, American Airlines only accepts checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. This option is not available to the general public. If you fall into this category, you'll need to:
Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel.
Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders.
Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight).
Complete a checklist with an agent.
Provide a health certificat
e. Your pet must meet minimum age and health requirements of the destination.
Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sub-heading 1.3: American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark)
For larger dogs, or if in-cabin or checked pet options aren't available for your situation (and you're not military/State Department personnel), your dog may need to travel via American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark). This is a separate service with its own set of rules and booking procedures.
Breed Restrictions: American Airlines Cargo has breed restrictions, especially for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds due to respiratory issues at altitude. Always check their specific list. Historically aggressive breeds are also not accepted.
Temperature Restrictions: There are strict temperature guidelines. Generally, American Airlines will not transport warm-blooded animals if the actual or forecasted temperature is above 85°F (29.4°C) or below 45°F (7.2°C) at any point of your itinerary (origin, connection, and destination). If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F, a veterinarian-signed acclimation letter is required.
Kennel Requirements: Kennels for cargo travel are much stricter and must comply with IATA Live Animal Regulations. They must be:
Made of rigid plastic, metal, or wood with a metal grated door.
Leak-proof and escape-proof.
Have adequate ventilation on 3 sides for domestic travel and 4 sides for international travel.
Large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally without touching the top or sides of the kennel.
Have two accessible food and water dishes.
Have absorbent material on the bottom (no hay, wood shavings, or straw).
Wheels must be inoperable or removed.
Age Requirement: For domestic cargo flights, dogs must be at least 8 weeks old. For international cargo flights, they must be at least 6 months old.
Sedation: Similar to in-cabin, American Airlines does not accept sedated or tranquilized pets for cargo travel.
Sub-heading 1.4: Service Animals
If your dog is a fully trained service dog (not an emotional support animal, as those are now treated as pets), they are permitted to fly in the cabin free of charge if they meet the requirements.
Training and Behavior: Service dogs must be individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability. They must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times, clean, and well-behaved.
Fit in Space: They must fit at your feet, under your seat, or in your lap (if smaller than a 2-year-old child) without blocking aisles or exit rows.
Documentation: You'll need to complete a U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form attesting to your animal's health, behavior, and training. For flights over 8 hours, you'll also need a Service Animal Relief Attestation Form. These forms should be submitted at least 48 hours in advance.
Take a moment to decide which option best suits your dog and your travel needs. This is the foundation of your entire plan!
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| How To Fly American Airlines With A Dog |
Step 2: Preparation is Key! Gathering Your Documents and Gear
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
Once you've determined how your dog will fly, it's time to get organized! This step is crucial for a smooth check-in and journey.
Sub-heading 2.1: Health Documentation
This is non-negotiable. American Airlines requires specific health documents for all traveling pets.
Health Certificate:
Issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian.
Must be dated within 10 days of your travel to the destination.
For round-trip travel on the same ticket, the certificate can be used for the return if the return is within 60 days of the initial issuance. If on separate tickets, a new certificate is needed for the return if it's beyond 10 days.
Must state your pet's breed, weight, age/date of birth, and confirm your pet is free of infectious/contagious diseases and healthy enough for travel.
For international travel, an English translation of the health certificate may be required. Check country-specific requirements!
Rabies Vaccination Certificate:
Issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian.
Must be in accordance with local timeline regulations.
Dogs less than 12 weeks old are generally not required to be vaccinated against rabies.
Breed Verification Form:
Required for all cats and dogs.
Must be signed by a licensed veterinarian, stating the predominant breed if mixed. This helps verify eligibility, especially concerning restricted breeds.
Sub-heading 2.2: Choosing and Preparing the Right Carrier/Kennel
Your dog's comfort and safety depend heavily on the right carrier.
For In-Cabin Travel:
Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended as they are more flexible and can be slightly larger while still fitting under the seat.
Must be leak-proof, well-ventilated (nylon mesh on 3 or more sides is good), and secure.
Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier. No part of your pet should extend out of the carrier.
Ensure the carrier is clean and odor-free.
For Cargo Travel (PetEmbark):
Refer back to Sub-heading 1.3 for detailed requirements regarding construction, ventilation, and size.
Measurements are crucial: Ensure the kennel provides enough space for your dog to stand erect without their head or ears touching the top, turn around naturally, and lie in a natural position.
Attach two dishes (food and water) to the inside of the kennel, accessible from the outside.
Place absorbent material (like blankets or towels, no more than 3 inches high) on the bottom.
A clear, one-gallon bag of food should be taped to the top of the kennel, along with feeding instructions.
Sub-heading 2.3: Microchipping and Identification
It's highly recommended that your dog be microchipped with up-to-date registration information. This is a crucial safety net if your pet gets separated from you.
Ensure your dog wears a collar with current ID tags including your contact information.
Label your pet carrier/kennel with your name, contact information, and your dog's name.
Sub-heading 2.4: Acclimation and Training
Crate Training: If your dog isn't already, start crate training well in advance. Make the carrier a positive, comfortable space for them. This will significantly reduce stress during travel.
Familiarization: Let your dog spend time in the carrier, take short car rides with them in it, and make it a place of security.
Exercise Before Flight: On the day of travel, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise to tire them out. A tired dog is more likely to rest calmly during the flight.
Feeding and Hydration: Feed your dog a light meal several hours before travel. Provide water, but avoid over-hydrating right before the flight to minimize the need for relief. American Airlines requires written certification that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours of delivery to the airplane (for checked/cargo pets).
Step 3: Booking Your Flight and Adding Your Dog – The Nitty-Gritty
Now that you're prepared, it's time to secure your dog's spot on the flight!
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Sub-heading 3.1: Booking Your Own Ticket
First, book your own ticket as usual on aa.com or through the American Airlines app.
Sub-heading 3.2: Adding Your In-Cabin Pet
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Online or App: This is the easiest way to add an in-cabin pet.
Find your trip on aa.com or the American app.
Go to the "Additional Services" or "Special Services" section.
Select "Add carry-on pets."
Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements.
Select the flights on which you want your pet to travel.
Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes.
Via Reservations: If you encounter any issues online, or prefer to speak with someone, contact American Airlines Reservations directly.
Limited Space: Crucially, remember that space for in-cabin pets is limited per flight. American Airlines operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It's highly recommended to book your pet's spot as soon as possible after booking your own ticket, especially for popular routes or times.
Fees: The fee for a carry-on pet is typically $150 per kennel (subject to change, so always verify). This fee is usually paid at the airport ticket counter during check-in.
Sub-heading 3.3: Booking Checked Pets (Military/State Department Only)
As mentioned, you must contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel. You cannot book this online.
Sub-heading 3.4: Booking American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark)
Booking for cargo typically needs to be done 24 hours to 10 days before travel (or up to 30 days for London Heathrow).
You can often book this online via aacargo.com if you have a Precise Account Locator (PAL) and meet other eligibility criteria (shipping within the US, 1 animal per kennel, no long flight segments followed by connections, not a military shipment).
For complex itineraries or if you don't meet online booking eligibility, contact the PetEmbark desk at PetEmbark@aa.com or 800-227-4622.
Payment for cargo pets will be confirmed at the time of booking or at check-in. Fees vary based on the trip details and size of the animal/kennel.
Step 4: The Day of Travel! Navigating the Airport
The big day has arrived! Staying calm and organized will make a huge difference for both you and your dog.
Sub-heading 4.1: Arrive Early
Allow plenty of extra time, especially if you're checking a pet or dealing with international travel. At least 2-3 hours before your flight for domestic in-cabin pets, and even more for cargo or international checked pets. You don't want to rush.
Sub-heading 4.2: Check-In Process
In-Cabin Pets: You must check in at the passenger ticket counter with your pet. You cannot use curbside or self-service check-in kiosks when traveling with a pet. This is where you'll pay the carry-on pet fee and they'll verify your pet's carrier size and health.
Checked/Cargo Pets: Head to the designated American Airlines Cargo facility or the ticket counter as instructed during your booking. You'll complete any final paperwork, present health certificates, and your pet will be weighed and inspected.
Sub-heading 4.3: Security Checkpoint (TSA)
When going through security, you will need to remove your dog from their carrier and carry them through the metal detector. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times in the airport, outside of their carrier.
Be prepared to demonstrate that your dog can be easily removed and re-entered into their carrier.
Sub-heading 4.4: Pre-Boarding and Onboard
Pre-Boarding: Many airlines allow passengers traveling with pets to pre-board, giving you extra time to settle your dog under the seat. Take advantage of this if offered.
Under the Seat: Once on board, your pet's carrier must remain under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. Your dog must stay inside the carrier at all times. This means no taking them out, even for a quick peek or cuddle, until you are off the aircraft and in a designated pet-friendly area.
Sub-heading 4.5: Pet Relief Areas
Most major airports have designated pet relief areas, both pre- and post-security. Look for signs or ask airport staff for directions. These areas are crucial for your dog to stretch their legs and relieve themselves before or after the flight.
Step 5: During the Flight and Upon Arrival – Ensuring Comfort and a Smooth Transition
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
The flight itself can be an anxious time for both you and your dog. Here’s how to manage it.
Sub-heading 5.1: During the Flight (In-Cabin Pets)
Comfort: While your dog must remain in their carrier, you can still offer comfort. Speak to them in a soothing voice, and if permitted, gently slide your hand into the carrier to reassure them.
No Food/Water: Avoid giving your dog food or excessive water during the flight to minimize the risk of accidents.
Observe: Keep an eye (or ear) on your dog. If they seem excessively distressed, consult with a flight attendant, though options are limited once airborne.
Sub-heading 5.2: Retrieving Checked/Cargo Pets
Upon arrival, head to the baggage claim area or the American Airlines Cargo office, as instructed during check-in, to pick up your dog.
Inspect your pet's kennel immediately for any damage and observe your pet for any signs of distress or injury. Report any concerns to American Airlines staff immediately.
Sub-heading 5.3: Post-Flight Care
Immediate Relief: Once you've retrieved your dog, find a designated pet relief area as soon as possible.
Hydration and Food: Offer water first, then a small meal if your dog seems settled.
Observe for Stress: It's normal for dogs to be a bit stressed or disoriented after travel. Give them time to decompress. Monitor them for any unusual behavior or health issues in the days following the flight.
By following these steps meticulously, you'll be well-prepared to fly American Airlines with your dog, making the journey as safe and comfortable as possible for your beloved companion. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to choose the right carrier size for my dog to fly in the cabin on American Airlines?
To choose the right carrier, ensure your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without any part of their body touching the top or sides. Soft-sided carriers are recommended for their flexibility and can be slightly larger, but must still fit under the seat. Hard-sided kennels have stricter dimensions. Always verify the maximum under-seat dimensions for your specific aircraft type with American Airlines.
How to book a flight for my dog on American Airlines?
If your dog is flying in the cabin, you can typically add them to your reservation online via aa.com or the American Airlines app in the "Additional Services" or "Special Services" section after booking your own ticket. For cargo travel, you'll usually book through aacargo.com or by contacting the PetEmbark desk. Checked pets are only for active-duty U.S. Military/State Department personnel and must be booked via phone.
How to pay the pet fee for American Airlines?
The carry-on pet fee (typically $150) for American Airlines is generally paid at the airport ticket counter during check-in. For cargo pets, fees vary and are usually confirmed and paid at the time of booking or drop-off at the cargo facility.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
How to prepare my dog for the security checkpoint at the airport?
At the security checkpoint, you'll need to remove your dog from their carrier and carry them through the metal detector while their empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Keep your dog on a leash before and after this process. Ensure your dog is comfortable being held and removed from their carrier briefly.
How to ensure my dog stays comfortable during the flight?
To ensure comfort during the flight, make sure your dog is well-exercised before heading to the airport. They must remain in their carrier under the seat for the entire flight. You can speak to them calmly and, if permitted, gently comfort them with your hand through the carrier openings. Avoid feeding them during the flight.
How to find pet relief areas at the airport when flying American Airlines?
Most major airports, including those served by American Airlines, have designated pet relief areas both inside and outside security. Look for signage in the terminal, check the airport's website or app, or ask airport staff for directions to the nearest pet relief area.
How to know if my dog's breed is restricted by American Airlines Cargo?
American Airlines Cargo has specific breed restrictions, particularly for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds and historically aggressive breeds. You must check the detailed list on the American Airlines Cargo website or contact their PetEmbark desk directly to confirm if your dog's breed is accepted for cargo travel.
How to handle potential temperature restrictions for my dog's travel?
American Airlines has strict temperature restrictions for pets traveling as cargo. They generally won't transport pets if temperatures are above 85°F (29.4°C) or below 45°F (7.2°C) at any point in the itinerary. If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F, a veterinarian-signed acclimation letter stating your pet's tolerance for that specific temperature range is required. Be aware that flights can be re-routed or canceled due to temperature concerns.
How to ensure I have all the necessary health documents for my dog?
Always consult the American Airlines pet policy on their official website and, more importantly, speak with your veterinarian well in advance of your travel date. Your vet can provide the required health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel) and rabies vaccination certificate, and advise on any destination-specific requirements.
How to deal with my dog's anxiety during air travel?
Pre-flight preparation is key for anxiety. Crate train your dog well in advance, make the carrier a positive space, and ensure they are well-exercised before the flight. During the flight, maintaining a calm demeanor yourself can help. Avoid sedatives unless explicitly recommended and prescribed by a vet who is aware of air travel conditions, as these can pose risks at altitude.
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