Flying with pets isn’t just about buying a ticket and showing up at the airport. Every airline has a strict list of airline pet travel requirements you must meet—or risk being turned away at check-in. This guide clears up the confusion and helps you prepare like a pro.
Why Airline-Specific Knowledge Matters?
Each airline—whether domestic or international—has unique pet policies. These rules govern everything from the type of carrier you can use to required documents, pet age, breed restrictions, and cabin vs. cargo eligibility.
Understanding and meeting airline pet travel requirements in advance is essential to:
- Avoid denied boarding
- Prevent stress or injury to your pet
- Save time and money on last-minute changes
Common Airline Pet Travel Requirements (Across Most Carriers)
1. Health Certificate
Nearly all airlines require a veterinarian-issued pet travel health certificate, usually within 10 days of travel. This proves your pet is healthy and fit to fly.
2. Carrier Size and Type
Airlines usually approve only soft-sided carriers for in-cabin travel. These must fit under the seat in front of you. Cargo carriers must be hard-sided, well-ventilated, and labeled with contact information.
Tip: Double-check dimensions with your airline. What fits on one aircraft may not fit on another.
3. Weight Limits
Cabin weight limits (including the carrier) often range from 15–20 lbs (7–9 kg). Larger pets must go in cargo or be booked via a pet travel service.
4. Pet Age
Puppies and kittens under 8 weeks (or 16 weeks for international) are often not allowed to fly.
5. Breed Restrictions
Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persians are banned by many airlines for safety reasons. Check before booking.
Read more here to learn more about pet travel documents.
In-Cabin vs. Cargo: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | In-Cabin Travel | Cargo Hold Travel |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Size | Small pets only | Medium to large pets |
| Carrier Type | Soft-sided, under-seat | Hard-sided, IATA-approved |
| Supervision | Always with passenger | Monitored by cargo crew |
| Availability | Limited slots per flight | More flexible if booked in advance |
Each has pros and cons. In-cabin is safer and less stressful, but not always possible.
Airline-Specific Examples
✈️ Delta Airlines
- Accepts small dogs, cats, and birds in-cabin on select routes
- Health certificate not required for domestic travel (but still recommended)
- Bans brachycephalic breeds in cargo
✈️ American Airlines
- In-cabin limit: 20 lbs (including carrier)
- No pets in cargo during extreme temperatures
- Requires health certificate for all cargo travel
✈️ United Airlines
- Offers PetSafe program for larger animals
- Requires 48-hour advance reservation for pets in cargo
- Has seasonal restrictions for certain routes
What Pet Parents Often Forget?
Even when you meet the airline pet travel requirements, many pet owners still face surprises. These are the most common:
🛑 Failing to Book Pet Reservations Early
Many airlines only allow 2–4 pets per cabin. These spots fill fast—especially during holidays or summer.
🛑 Not Checking Connection Rules
If you have a layover, the connecting airline might have different rules, or the layover country may require documentation even if you’re not exiting the airport.
🛑 Missing Identification Tags or Microchips
While not always required, having a visible ID tag and a microchip ensures your pet can be identified if anything goes wrong.
How Travel Ready Pets Can Help?
Our platform helps ensure you’re never caught off guard by:
- Reminding you of vet appointments before your flight
- Tracking airline-specific pet policies across major carriers
- Storing your health certificates, microchip data, and carrier specs in one easy-access app
Plus, when rules change (which they do often), we’ll notify you—so your trip doesn’t fall apart last minute.
✅ Conclusion: Fly Smart with Pets by Meeting Every Requirement
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful or uncertain. By knowing the exact airline pet travel requirements, booking early, choosing the right carrier, and preparing the correct documents, you’ll avoid the most common pitfalls.
Let your next pet travel experience be calm, compliant, and stress-free. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a big international move, plan ahead—and let Travel Ready Pets make it easier. Learn how Travel Ready Pets can help you.