Flying with Dogs: How to Travel With Pets?

In summary: Under DOT rules, service dogs have legal protections and fly for free with specific forms, while emotional support animals and pets must follow standard airline pet policies, including fees and carrier size requirements. Always check your airline’s latest pet policy before booking.

What Does It Cost to Fly with a Dog?

The cost of flying with a dog varies widely depending on whether the animal is classified as a service dog or a pet, as well as the airline, destination, and mode of travel (in-cabin or cargo). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the associated costs and requirements:

Service Dogs – Fly Free with Documentation

Under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules, service dogs — including psychiatric service dogs — are legally protected and may travel in the cabin free of charge, regardless of size or breed.

However, specific conditions apply:

Pets (Including ESA) – Fees and Restrictions Apply

As of January 2021, emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized as service animals. They are now considered pets and subject to the same policies, restrictions, and fees.

While most airlines primarily focus on dogs, many of the same rules apply when you’re flying with cats — including carrier size, fees, and in-cabin restrictions. If you’re planning a trip with a feline companion, be sure to review airline policies carefully, as not all carriers accept cats or may impose additional requirements.

In-Cabin Pet Travel (e.g., Alaska Airlines):

Checked Baggage or Cargo Travel:

International Travel & Hawaii:

Other Travel-Related Costs to Consider

Flying with a Dog: Cost Summary

While service dogs fly free with proper paperwork, pets (including former ESAs) incur significant fees and stricter requirements. For international flights and locations like Hawaii, expect higher costs and additional planning.

Airline Policies and Pet-Friendliness

Which Airline Is Most Pet Friendly?

When it comes to the most pet-friendly airline, Alaska Airlines stands out. Based on the available information, it offers:

• Transparent pet travel fees: $100 (USD/CAD) each way for pets in the cabin. $150 for pets in the cargo hold (or $100 for Alaska residents and active-duty military)
• Wide range of accepted animals in both cabin and cargo (including rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and even tropical fish in certain cases)
• Detailed breed and carrier requirements, prioritizing animal safety
• Clear documentation and reservation guidelines
• Compliance with DOT rules for service animals, with no cost to fly and support for trained service dogs only

Additionally, Alaska Airlines has implemented new policies effective June 2025, limiting the types of animals allowed in the cabin to cats and dogs for most passengers, but still offering grace periods for previously booked trips.

Best airlines for flying with dogs

When it comes to the best airline for flying with dogs, Alaska Airlines consistently ranks among the top due to its transparent pet policy, moderate fees, and flexibility for both in-cabin and cargo travel. Other good options include:

1. American Airlines – Allows pets in cabin on many domestic routes
2. JetBlue – Offers a “JetPaws” program for pet travelers
3. Delta Airlines – Has clear pet travel guidelines and multiple cabin options

American Airlines – Pet Travel Overview

Best for: Pet owners looking for a pet-friendly airline with excellent care standards, affordable domestic fees, and climate-controlled cargo options — ideal for both in-cabin and unaccompanied pet travel.

JetBlue – Pet Travel Overview

Best for: Domestic travelers flying with small dogs who want comfort, clear pet rules, and added perks like JetPaws.

Delta Airlines – Pet Travel Overview

Best for: Travelers needing international routes or flexible pet cargo options, especially if their dog is too large for in-cabin travel.

3 Key Considerations When Choosing an Airline:

1. Compare pet-in-cabin fees, which range from $95 to $125 depending on the airline.
2. Review cargo policies and safety records, especially if your animal cannot fly in the cabin.
3. Check how accommodating the airline is toward service animals and ESAs, including their documentation process, staff training, and accessibility policies.

FAQ about Fly with Dogs

Can You Take a Dog on an Airplane?

Yes, you can take a dog on an airplane, but the process depends on the dog’s size, breed, and the airline’s pet policy. Small dogs that fit comfortably in an airline-approved carrier can usually fly in-cabin under the seat in front of you. 

Larger dogs may need to travel in the cargo hold or via a special pet transport service. Each airline has its own requirements regarding carrier size, weight limits, documents, and fees—so always check their policies in advance.

Can I Purchase a Seat for My Dog on a Plane?

In most cases, the answer will be no. Most airlines do not allow you to purchase a seat for your dog, even if you’re willing to pay. Dogs flying in-cabin must stay in their carrier under the seat for the entire flight. 

However, some charter or private airlines do offer the option to seat your dog beside you. If you’re traveling with a service animal, that dog is allowed to remain at your feet or on your lap (if small), without needing a carrier.

Can My Dog Fly with Me as an ESA?

No. Not anymore under federal airline regulations. As of January 10, 2021, the U.S. DOT issued a final rule that no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. Airlines are now allowed to treat them as pets. While some airlines may still accept them under their pet policies, they are not required to do so.

Flying with an ESA: Key Considerations

If you wish to travel with an ESA, it will now likely be treated as a pet. This means you may face additional fees and need to comply with all pet-related requirements—such as using an approved carrier that fits under the seat and following passenger limits per flight. Some airlines may have stricter rules or prohibit ESAs altogether, so always check with your airline before booking.

What Kind of Documentation an Airline Request for an ESA?

Documentation specifically requested for ESAs by airlines no longer exists because, since January 2021, ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals and are treated as regular pets.

That said, if you’re flying under a pet policy, the airline may request:

• Vaccination records
• Health certificate from a veterinarian (usually issued within 10 days of travel)
• Pet reservation confirmation and pet carrier that meets airline requirements
• Payment for the pet travel fee, which varies by airline

We strongly advise checking the airline’s website for up-to-date pet travel policies, including crate requirements, breed bans, size and age limits, and seasonal restrictions.

Conclusion

Flying with dogs—whether as service animals, emotional support animals, or regular pets—requires careful planning and an understanding of evolving airline policies. Service dogs still benefit from legal protections that allow them to fly free in the cabin, provided proper documentation is submitted. Meanwhile, emotional support animals are now treated as pets by most airlines, meaning you’ll need to follow pet travel rules, including fees and carrier requirements.

Each airline has its own pet policies, fees, and restrictions, so it’s essential to check these details well in advance and book early to secure your pet’s spot. Remember to prepare your dog for the journey by acclimating them to their carrier, ensuring they are healthy, and following all documentation and safety guidelines.

With the right preparation, you can make flying with your dog a smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience—for both you and your furry companion.