More travelers than ever are bringing pets along — 56% of people globally now own a pet, and nearly half of pet-owning travelers took their pet on a trip in 2025. Airlines are responding with expanded pet policies, but the rules vary widely.
In-Cabin vs. Cargo
- In-cabin: Small pets (typically under 8-10 kg including carrier) can ride under the seat in front of you. Your pet stays with you the entire flight. Costs $50-200 per flight segment
- Cargo hold: Larger pets travel in a pressurized, temperature-controlled section of the cargo hold. Costs $200-500+ depending on the airline and route. Available on select flights only
- Pet-only airlines: New services like Bark Air and SkyePets now offer dedicated pet cabins where your dog sits next to you in a full seat. Prices start around $1,000-6,000+ depending on the route
Airline Pet Policies (Key Differences)
- Most pet-friendly US airlines: JetBlue (generous carrier size), Southwest (only dogs and cats in-cabin), Alaska Airlines (accepts in-cabin and cargo)
- Restrictive airlines: Spirit and Frontier have limited availability. Many budget carriers don't accept pets at all
- International considerations: Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas typically only allow pets in cargo, not in-cabin
- Breed restrictions: Snub-nosed breeds (pugs, bulldogs, Persian cats) are banned from cargo holds on most airlines due to breathing risks at altitude
What You Need Before Flying
- Health certificate: Most airlines require a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
- Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is universally required. Some countries require additional vaccines and blood titer tests
- Microchip: Required for international travel to most countries, and increasingly for domestic flights
- Airline-approved carrier: Must fit under the seat (typically 18x11x11 inches max). Soft-sided carriers are preferred
- Reservation: Most airlines limit the number of pets per flight. Book your pet's spot when you book your ticket — don't assume space will be available
Keeping Your Pet Calm During the Flight
- Familiarize your pet with the carrier weeks before travel — make it a positive, comfortable space
- Avoid feeding a full meal right before the flight (2-3 hours before is ideal)
- Bring their favorite toy or a blanket that smells like home
- Ask your vet about calming supplements or anxiety medication for nervous pets
- Choose direct flights when possible to avoid the stress of connections
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog sit on my lap during the flight?
No. Regulations require pets to remain in their carrier under the seat for the duration of the flight, including takeoff and landing. Some airlines allow you to unzip the carrier slightly during cruise so your pet can poke their head out, but this varies.
What about emotional support animals?
As of 2021, US airlines are no longer required to accommodate emotional support animals (ESAs) in the cabin. Only trained psychiatric service dogs are guaranteed access. ESAs are now treated as regular pets with standard fees and carrier requirements.
How do I fly internationally with my pet?
International pet travel is complex. Each country has different import requirements — some (UK, Australia, Japan) require months of advance preparation including quarantine. Start researching at least 3-6 months before your trip, and consider using a pet relocation specialist for complicated destinations.
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