American Airlines Pet Policy & Fees: Pet Owner’s Guide

Planning a trip with your furry friend? Traveling with pets on American Airlines can be a smooth experience if you know the rules.

Understanding the American Airlines Pet Policy is key. But what exactly does the policy entail? American Airlines has specific guidelines for every situation, from carry-on pets to cargo transport. Let’s get started.

American Airlines Pet Travel Rules

Traveling with pets on American Airlines involves specific guidelines to ensure a smooth journey. Depending on its breed and size, your pet can travel as a carry-on or via airline Cargo. You can only bring cats and dogs that fit the size, age, and destination criteria as carry-on pets.

Your pet must be at least eight weeks old and not exceed 20 pounds combined weight of the pet and carrier. On official orders, active-duty U.S. Military and State Department personnel can check pets at the ticket counter. Service dogs can fly in the cabin for free.

Temperature restrictions protect pets from extreme weather. If temperatures exceed 85°F (29.4°C) or drop below 45°F (7.2°C), American Airlines will not accept pets as checked baggage or air cargo. You may need an acclimation certificate for such situations.

TLDR: American Airlines allows pets to travel as carry-on or cargo based on specific size and breed requirements. Fees apply for checked pets; service dogs can fly in-cabin for free. Temperature restrictions ensure pets are not exposed to extreme weather conditions.

American Airlines Fees for Pet Travels

American Airlines imposes several fees depending on the mode of travel and the pet’s requirements. For carry-on pets, there is a $150 fee per kennel for travel within and between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

For checked pets, the fees are $200 per kennel within and between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Europe, with a reduced fee of $150 for travel to or from Brazil. These fees apply only to active-duty U.S. Military and State Department personnel.

Animal transport via airline Cargo will have fees confirmed when booking. This fee can vary depending on the specifics of the travel. Additionally, an extra handling fee of $150 per airway bill will apply.

ESAs are Exempt from Pet Fees for Housing

According to the FHA, Emotional Support Animals and Service Dogs are exempt from any housing pet fees, deposits or pet rents. Learn More about Pet Fees

American Airlines Standards for ESA and Service Animals

American Airlines has strict standards for service animals to ensure the comfort of all passengers. If the service animal, particularly the service dog, meets the requirements, it can travel in the cabin at no charge. However, its owners must always harness, leash, or tether it.

ESAs are not treated as service animals and are subject to pet fees. For pets traveling in-cabin, you need an approved airline pet carrier. It should be waterproof and provide ample space for the pet to move. The maximum size for a pet carrier is 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches.

American Airlines and the ACAA

American Airlines no longer permits ESAs to fly under the same provisions as service animals. Following recent ACAA regulations, ESAs are now treated as pets, not service animals. Previously, ESAs could travel in the cabin for free with proper documentation.

This policy change requires passengers with ESAs to follow American Airlines’ pet travel policies, which include restrictions and additional fees. This ensures the safety and comfort of all passengers while complying with updated ACAA standards. However, you may still find airlines that still provide benefits for ESAs:

Most ESA Pet-Friendly Airlines

Allowed Support Animals

American Airlines accommodates various support animals for travel both in-cabin and in cargo. It depends on their size, weight, and specific requirements. Below is a table outlining the animals allowed and their permitted travel methods, fees, and requirements.

Animal	Permitted on	Fees
Dogs	In-Cabin, Cargo	In-Cabin: $125 each way, Cargo: $200+
Cats	In-Cabin, Cargo	In-Cabin: $125 each way, Cargo: $200+
Small Birds	In-Cabin, Cargo	In-Cabin: $125 each way, Cargo: $200+
Ferrets	Cargo	$200+
Gerbils	Cargo	$200+
Hamsters	Cargo	$200+
Guinea Pigs	Cargo	$200+
Pot-Belly Pigs	Cargo	$200+
Rabbits	Cargo	$200+
Rodents	Cargo	$200+

Take Note:

• For domestic flights within the continental U.S., Puerto Rico, or into Hawaii, if the pet’s combined weight (including the kennel) is under 100 pounds and the kennel is no larger than 36L”x26W”x28H”, they can fly as Priority Parcel Service (PPS).
• There will be an additional $150 handling fee per airway bill to the animals’ rates.
• Pets flying internationally or exceeding the PPS weight and container restrictions will travel as ExpediteFS.
• American Airlines does not accept animals transported for research except for lab mice and rats.
• They do not transport certain wild game trophies or shark fins.
• You must drop non-domesticated, wild, exotic, or zoo animals off at cargo terminals for transport. You can transport household pets like dogs, cats, and small animals from passenger ticket counters or baggage service offices.
• Warm-blooded animals cannot travel on flights longer than 12 hours in compliance with USDA regulations.

Breed Restrictions on American Airlines

American Airlines has specific pet breed restrictions to ensure the safety of pets during travel. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs cannot travel as checked pets due to their increased risk of respiratory issues.

How to Travel with Snub-Nosed Dogs?

Additionally, the airline does not allow certain breeds to fly as cargo. These measures are in place to protect pets that may have difficulty breathing in the cargo hold.

Cat Restrictions:

They don’t accept brachycephalic cats or any mix of these breeds as checked pets:

• Burmese
• Persian
• Himalayan
• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog Restrictions:

They don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs or any mix of these breeds as checked pets:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Cane Corso
• Chow Chow
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Lhasa Apso
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Pekingese
• Pit Bull
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Shar Pei
• Shih Tzu
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Allowed Cat Breeds in Cabin

All domestic cats are over 8 weeks old, provided their combined weight with the carrier is under 20 pounds. Here are some examples:

• Domestic Shorthair
• Domestic Longhair
• Siamese
• Persian
• Ragdoll
• Maine Coon
• Bengal
• Sphynx

Allowed Dog Breeds in Cabin

All domestic dog breeds are over 8 weeks old, provided their combined weight with the carrier is under 20 pounds. Here are some examples:

• Chihuahua
• Pomeranian
• Shih Tzu
• Maltese
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pekingese
• French Bulldog (subject to restrictions)
• Dachshund

American Airlines permits a variety of cat and dog breeds to travel in the cabin, provided they meet the age and weight requirements. This ensures a comfortable and safe journey for pets traveling with their owners.

American Airlines ESA Requirements

American Airlines has revised its policies on ESAs to comply with updated federal regulations. These policies detail the specific allowances for ESAs and the restrictions that apply. The goal is to ensure the safety of all passengers and the animals themselves during travel.

Allowances

• Service Animals: Only dogs that are individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability can travel as service animals.
• In-Cabin Pets: Small pets, including certain cats and dogs, can travel in the cabin if their combined weight with the carrier is under 20 pounds.
• Age Requirement: Animals must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Restrictions

• ESA Recognition: Emotional Support Animals are no longer recognized as service animals. They must comply with standard pet travel policies.
• Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs of any mix are not accepted as checked pets.
• Cargo Restrictions: The airlines do not accept dogs breeds like Pitbull to fly as cargo.
• Documentation: You need proper documentation for service animals. ESAs no longer receive the same exemptions.
• Venomous Animals: American Airlines does not transport venomous or poisonous animals.

What to Know Before Flying American Airlines With Pets

Traveling with pets on American Airlines can be a smooth experience if you know the rules and prepare. Depending on breed and size, your pet can fly via American Airlines Cargo or as a carry-on.

You can carry small cats and dogs that meet size, age, and destination requirements in the cabin. If you’re an active-duty U.S. Military or State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, you can also check your pets at the ticket counter.

Fully trained service dogs can fly in the cabin at no charge, provided they meet the necessary requirements. Remember to check for temperature restrictions. When temperatures are extreme, pets are not accepted as checked baggage or cargo.

Prepping the ESA for Travelling

Traveling with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) requires careful preparation to ensure your pet’s safe and comfortable journey. Here are some best practices to consider:

• Vet Visit: Schedule a visit to your vet to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations, especially dog rabies.
• Carrier Training: Get your pet accustomed to their pet carrier well in advance. The carrier should be comfortable, with a waterproof bottom and enough space for the pet to stand up and turn around.
• Calm Environment: Use calming aids like pet-friendly pheromones or anxiety wraps. You can also bring a favorite toy or blanket.
• Hydration and Food: Provide your pet with plenty of water before the flight. Avoid feeding them right before travel to prevent motion sickness.
• Exercise: Ensure your pet gets ample exercise before the flight to help them relax during the journey.
• Plan Ahead: Find out the carry-on pet fee and any other applicable charges. Prepare your carry-on bag with all your pet’s essentials during the trip.

Required Forms and Documents for ESAs

 

When traveling with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), you must have the necessary documentation. Here are the required forms and documents:

ESA Letter or PSD Letter

An ESA or PSD Letter impacts your travel experience regarding fees, permissions, and restrictions. ESA Letter certifies that your pet is necessary for your emotional well-being. American Airlines treats ESAs like regular pets under the ACAA, so you must pay an extra pet fee.

A PSD Letter certifies that your dog has training to perform tasks for a person with a psychiatric disability. Service dogs with PSD Letters get more extensive rights compared to ESAs. They can travel in the cabin without additional fees and restrictions.

To get either letter, you must undergo an evaluation by a licensed professional who will determine your eligibility. An ESA Letter allows your emotional support animal to travel with you. A PSD Letter offers broader rights and can waive certain fees and restrictions.

Behavior Form

A Behavior Form, while not always required, is a useful document when traveling with an ESA. This form serves as a declaration that your emotional support animal will behave during the flight. 

It reassures the airline that your pet will not show aggressive behavior or cause disturbances. ESA Pet offers the Behavior Form as an additional service when acquiring your ESA Letter, making the process more convenient for pet owners.

Having this form can ease the boarding process. The form can provide additional assurance to airline staff and fellow passengers. It demonstrates your commitment to responsible pet ownership and ensures that your ESA will have a positive travel experience.

Health Form

The Health Form is another important document when traveling with an ESA. This form, issued by a veterinarian, certifies that your pet is in good health and fit to travel. You need to complete it within ten days of your travel date. 

For round trips, it should also cover 60 days from your return if traveling on the same ticket or ten days if on a separate ticket.Although not always mandatory for ESAs, having a Health Form is highly recommended. 

It includes vital information such as your pet’s rabies vaccination status, ensuring compliance with health regulations. At ESA Pet, we offer this form as part of our additional services. We streamline the process for pet owners and ensure that all necessary documentation is available.

Getting an Official ESA Letter and Additional Documentation

Getting an official ESA letter and the necessary documentation for your ESA involves a simple three-step process. This ensures that you and your ESA are legally recognized and can enjoy the benefits and protections afforded to you.

Step 1: Complete a Quick 2-Minute Screening

Start by taking a brief survey where you will answer a few simple questions. This survey helps mental health care providers assess if an ESA suits your needs. Your responses are confidential and only accessible to authorized personnel.

Step 2: Connect With a Licensed Healthcare Professional

After you complete the survey and submit a secure payment, you will connect with a licensed healthcare professional in your state. They will evaluate your mental and emotional health. This is to determine if an emotional support animal would be beneficial for you.

Step 3: Get Your ESA Letter

If approved, the healthcare professional will issue a signed ESA letter. You will receive a digital copy of this letter within three business days. This letter allows you to legally recognize your ESA.

American Airlines Pet Policy FAQ

How Do I Add a Pet to My Flight?

To add a pet to your flight, contact American Airlines Reservations or add the pet when booking your flight online. Ensure you mention the type of pet, its size, and whether it will be traveling as a carry-on or in cargo. Confirm all necessary documentation and fees.

What Size Dog Can Fly on American Airlines?

Dogs that can fit comfortably in a pet carrier under the seat in front of you can travel as carry-ons. The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds. You need to transport larger dogs via American Airlines Cargo.

How Much Does It Cost for a Pet to Fly on American Airlines?

The cost for a pet to fly on American Airlines varies. For carry-on pets, the fee is $150 per kennel. Checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and State Department personnel are $200 per kennel within and between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

How Strict Is American Airlines Pet Policy?

American Airlines’ pet policy is strict to ensure the safety of all passengers and animals. They have specific guidelines regarding pet carrier dimensions, pet weight, and breed restrictions. Complying with these rules is important to avoid any travel disruptions.

Can My Dog Sit on My Lap on American Airlines?

No. Dogs cannot sit on your lap during the entire flight. You must ensure the pet stays in its carrier, which you should place under the seat in front of you. This ensures the safety of both your pet and other passengers.

Did American Airlines Change Their Pet Policy?

Yes. American Airlines updated its pet policy to no longer accept Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) under the same provisions as service dogs. Now, ESAs must travel as standard pets, either as carry-ons or in American Airlines cargo, depending on their size and weight.

Wrapping Up American Airlines Pet Policy

Traveling with pets on American Airlines requires understanding their specific guidelines and requirements. Prepare in advance by familiarizing yourself with the American Airlines Pet Policy.

Check the fees, ensure your pet’s carrier meets size requirements, and gather all required forms. When traveling with a service dog or an emotional support animal, knowing the American Airlines Pet Policy ensures a safe and comfortable trip for both you and your pet.

Following these guidelines lets you enjoy peace of mind and focus on making wonderful memories with your furry companion.