American Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025: Complete Guide to In-Cabin, Cargo and Service Animals

Flying with your pet can feel complicated, but American Airlines pet travel options make it easier than most travelers expect. The airline has built clear rules, approved carrier dimensions, and a strong safety program through American PetEmbark for animals traveling by air.

This guide explains how to travel with a pet on American Airlines, including in-cabin policies, cargo pet travel, required forms, and the latest service animal updates for 2025. Whether you’re taking a small dog to Mexico or sending a cat overseas through cargo, you’ll find everything you need here.

What Is the American Airlines Pet Travel Policy?

The American Airline pet travel policy allows passengers to bring cats and dogs either in the cabin or through the cargo service, depending on size and destination. The airline also offers a dedicated option for trained service dogs that travel at no charge.

In simple terms, AA travelling with pets is divided into three programs:

Type	Who Can Use It	Main Rules
Carry-on Pet	Small cats or dogs that fit under the seat	Fee $150 per kennel
Checked Pet	Active-duty U.S. Military / State Dept. personnel	Must have official orders
Cargo (PetEmbark®)	All other pets, large breeds, or long flights	Must meet IATA kennel rules

Which Destinations Allow Pet Travel on American Airlines?

Can you travel with pets on American Airlines anywhere? Not quite. The airline accepts pets on most flights up to 12 hours within the continental U.S., Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and some Caribbean routes.

However, certain destinations such as Hawaii, Jamaica, Argentina, and the U.K. have extra restrictions.
If you plan international pet travel with American Airlines, always check local import laws before booking.

Examples of restrictions:

Region	Carry-on Allowed?	Special Conditions
Continental U.S. / Puerto Rico	✅ Yes	Pets 8 weeks or older
Hawaii	❌ No	Only checked pets via Honolulu (HNL)
Mexico	✅ Yes	Must meet vaccination rules
South America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia)	❌ No	Cargo only
Europe (EU)	✅ Checked pets only	Microchip + vaccination card required

Tip: Before departure, confirm both AA airlines pet policy and any local animal-entry regulations.

American Airlines Pet Travel Requirements and Documents

What documents are needed for pet travel on American Airlines?

All pets must meet American Airline pet travel requirements before boarding. These include:

1. Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel.
2. Vaccination Proof: Especially rabies certificates for dogs.
3. Pet Travel Forms: Depending on route, may include CDC Dog Import Form or USDA APHIS clearance.
4. Identification: Tattoo or microchip for EU and other international destinations.

If you’re flying from or through high-risk countries for rabies, follow CDC rules effective August 1, 2024. These require proof of vaccination and travel history forms.

Learn how to complete these forms accurately in our related pet travel documents guide.

American Airline Carry-On Pet Policy and Approved Carrier Dimensions

How small should your pet be to travel in the cabin of AAirline?

Carry-on pet travel on American Airlines is limited to small cats and dogs that can fit comfortably under the seat in a secure carrier. Pets must stay in the carrier throughout the flight.

Carrier Type	Aircraft Type	Maximum Dimensions (L × W × H)
Soft-sided (Recommended)	All flights	18 × 11 × 11 in (46 × 28 × 28 cm)
Hard-sided	American Mainline flights	19 × 13 × 9 in (48 × 33 × 22 cm)
Hard-sided	American Eagle flights	16 × 12 × 8 in (40 × 30 × 20 cm)

Weight limit: Pet + carrier must not exceed 20 lb (9.07 kg).

If you’re uncertain which model fits, review our chart of airline-approved pet carrier dimensions for more details.

How to Add a Carry-On Pet to Your Trip?

You can add a carry-on pet directly when managing your booking:

1. Find your trip on aa.com or the American Airlines app.
2. Go to Additional Services → Add Carry-On Pets.
3. Confirm that you agree to the requirements and select flights.
4. Pay the fee ($150 per kennel) at the airport check-in counter.

Remember, only one pet carrier is allowed per ticketed passenger, and you may bring either a small handbag or one carry-on bag in addition to the pet carrier, not both.

American Airlines Pet Travel Fees

What does it cost to travel with a pet on American Airlines?

The American Airline pet travel cost varies by service type and region.

Service	Region or Type	Pet Travel Fee
Carry-on Pet	Within U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean routes	$150 per kennel
Checked Pet (for U.S. Military / State Dept.)	U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe	$200 per kennel ($150 to/from Brazil)
Cargo Pet (American PetEmbark®)	Worldwide	Varies by size and destination
Service Dogs	All destinations	No charge

All fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way.

To compare with other carriers, see our airline pet travel costs guide.

Checked Pets on American Airlines

Can you check your pet as baggage on American Airlines?

The airline only allows checked pets for active-duty U.S. military members and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling under official orders. Regular passengers must use the carry-on or cargo options instead.

If you qualify for checked transport, you can bring up to two pets. They must meet all American Airline pet travel requirements, including age, health, and kennel standards.

Key steps before your flight

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours before travel.
• Check in at the ticket counter with official orders.
• Arrive 2–4 hours before your flight for processing.
• Provide a health certificate issued within 10 days of departure.

Your pets must also meet destination-specific rules set by the USDA APHIS and the CDC.

Requirement	Timeline / Note
Vet-issued health certificate	Within 10 days of flight
Vaccination records	Rabies mandatory
Return on same ticket	Valid up to 60 days

Kennel Guidelines for Checked Pets

Checked kennels must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations. Each kennel should be sturdy, leakproof, and large enough for the pet to stand and turn comfortably.

Kennel Type	Material & Build	Requirements
Rigid container	Plastic, metal, or wood	Must not exceed aircraft height limits
Door	Welded or cast metal	Secured top and bottom with bolts or screws
Ventilation	3 sides (domestic) / 4 sides (international)	Airflow essential
Food & water dishes	Inside the kennel	24-hour supply required
Labeling	Owner info + feeding schedule	Must be attached outside

The maximum combined weight (pet + kennel) for checked pets is 100 lbs (45 kg).
Checked pets can connect only through approved U.S. airports such as Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA), or Chicago O’Hare (ORD).

Breed Restrictions

Certain dog and cat breeds are restricted due to respiratory risks. The American air pet policy bans short-nosed (brachycephalic) and aggressive breeds from checked or cargo travel.

Banned Dog Breeds:
Bulldogs (all types), Boxers, Pit Bulls, Chow Chows, Mastiffs, Shih Tzus, Pugs, and similar snub-nosed varieties.

Banned Cat Breeds:
Persian, Burmese, Himalayan, and Exotic Shorthair.

If your pet falls under these breeds, you must use specialized pet relocation services that follow temperature-controlled cargo standards.

Temperature Restrictions and Climate Safety

American Airlines enforces strict temperature policies to protect animal welfare.

Condition	Rule
Heat Restriction	No pet travel if forecast exceeds 85°F (29.4°C)
Cold Restriction	No travel if temperature is below 45°F (7.2°C)
With Vet Letter	May allow travel down to 20°F (-6.6°C)

Pets cannot fly through or from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), or Las Vegas (LAS) between May and September unless using approved American Airlines cargo pet travel channels.

A licensed veterinarian’s Letter of Acclimation is required for flights in moderate cold conditions.

American Airlines Cargo Pet Travel – PetEmbark

What is American PetEmbark?

For larger pets or long international routes, American Airline Cargo Pet Travel operates under American PetEmbark, one of the most experienced animal transport programs in the industry.

It’s ideal for pets that don’t qualify as carry-on or checked baggage. With 65+ years of live animal transport experience, the PetEmbark team handles all safety, comfort, and climate controls throughout the journey.

Key Highlights:

• Professional handlers monitor temperature and ventilation.
• Comfort stops arranged for long layovers.
• Veterinary support available during emergencies.
• 50% discount for active U.S. military under PCS or TDY orders.

How does American PetEmbark work?

1. Book through the American Airlines Cargo website or at Cargo terminals.
2. Prepare travel documents and health certifications.
3. Use IATA-compliant kennels with proper ventilation and food.
4. Submit CDC Dog Import Form for international routes.

Cargo Travel Costs and Payment Options

The American Airlines pet travel cost for cargo depends on route, pet size, and kennel dimensions.
Here’s a general breakdown:

Service Type	Estimated Cost Range (USD)	Notes
Domestic (under 100 lb, kennel ≤ 36L×26W×28H)	$200–$400	Flies as Priority Parcel Service (PPS)
International / Large Pets	$500–$1000+	Flies as ExpediteFS service
Handling Fee	$150 per air waybill	Added to PPS/Expedite charges

Payments can be made via credit or debit card at Cargo terminals. Frequent transporters can open a customer credit account for reduced rates.

Military Pet Transport Benefits

Active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces traveling under PCS or TDY orders receive a 50% discount on published rates when shipping cats or dogs through American Airlines Cargo PetEmbark.

Required Documents:

• Valid military ID
• PCS or TDY orders (dated within 30–120 days)
• Verified identification at check-in

This benefit makes AA airlines pet policy one of the most military-friendly among major U.S. carriers.

Emergency Veterinary and Comfort Stops

What happens if your pet needs care mid-journey?

If a pet becomes ill or distressed while in transit, the AA Cargo veterinary support team arranges medical attention immediately. Costs are covered if the issue arises due to airline handling.

For long routes, comfort stops are provided at approved kenneling facilities. Pets can rest, relieve themselves, eat, and rehydrate before continuing their journey.

Mandatory comfort stops apply for:

• Dogs traveling more than 7 hours with layovers.
• Cats on trips longer than 24 hours.

Comfort stop fees vary by connection city and duration.

American Airline Service Dog and Service Animal Policy

What is considered a service animal on American Airlines?

A service animal is a fully trained dog that performs specific tasks for a passenger with a disability, such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting to seizures, or providing mobility support.
Under the American airline service dog policy, these animals can fly in the cabin free of charge, provided they meet documentation and behavior standards.

Service animals are not the same as emotional support or comfort pets. Those must travel as regular pets under the American Airline pet travel policy with all applicable fees and forms.

Allowed Service Animals:

• Only dogs are accepted as service animals.
• Limit of two service dogs per traveler.
• Must be at least four months old and properly harnessed or leashed.

Prohibited:

• Emotional support animals
• Untrained animals
• Service animals in training (unless traveling as pets)

Required Service Animal Forms and Advance Notice

Before your flight, passengers must complete the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form, verifying that the dog’s health, behavior, and training meet federal standards.

To make the process smoother:

1. Submit the form electronically to the American Airlines Special Assistance Desk at least 48 hours before departure.
2. Bring a printed copy to the airport.
3. Keep the approved Service Animal ID (SVAN ID) for future travel – valid for one year or until vaccination expiry.

If your journey includes another carrier, you must also meet that airline’s service animal rules.

Related Form:

• For flights longer than 8 hours, complete the DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form, stating your dog won’t need to relieve itself during flight or can do so safely.

These requirements form part of the official AA service animal and AA airlines pet policy updates for 2025.

Service Animal Travel Rules and Cabin Behavior

What are the behavior and size requirements for service dogs?

To qualify for cabin travel, your American airline service animal must:

• Fit comfortably at your feet, under your seat, or in your lap (if small).
• Remain harnessed, tethered, or leashed at all times.
• Stay clean, calm, and well-behaved throughout the flight.

Animals showing disruptive behavior – such as growling, lunging, or biting – may be reclassified as pets. In that case, all American Airlines pet travel fees and requirements will apply.

Not allowed:

• Service dogs in exit rows
• Blocking aisles or occupying passenger seats
• Eating from tray tables

If the dog is too large to fit safely, you may need to rebook a different flight or transport it as cargo.

International Pet Travel Rules and Country-Specific Restrictions

The American Airlines international pet travel program allows animals on select global routes, but restrictions vary by destination. These limitations help ensure safety, quarantine compliance, and animal welfare.

Destination / Region	Carry-On Allowed?	Key Restrictions
Hawaii	❌ No	Pets must enter via Honolulu (HNL) for quarantine clearance
Mexico	✅ Yes	Must have valid vaccination proof
Caribbean (Trinidad & Tobago)	✅ Limited	Flights allowed only between 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Canada	✅ Yes	No import of commercial dogs from high-risk rabies countries
Europe (EU)	✅ Checked / Cargo	Requires microchip, health certificate, rabies vaccination
U.K. & Ireland	❌ No carry-on	Only via cargo to LHR, MAN with customs broker
Japan	✅ Cargo only inbound	Notify Japanese Animal Quarantine at least 7 days before travel
Australia / New Zealand	✅ Service dogs only	Must meet government accreditation and quarantine laws

When planning any international pet travel with American Airlines, always check local government import rules, as these override airline approvals.

CDC and USDA Rules for Dogs Entering the United States

How have the rules for bringing dogs into the U.S. changed in 2024?

As of August 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) introduced new import requirements for all dogs entering the United States.
These updates affect both service dogs and regular pets under the American Airline pet travel requirements.

Key updates include:

• Dogs must have a CDC Dog Import Form (submitted 24–48 hours in advance).
• Rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory.
• Travel history of the past six months must be disclosed.
• Dogs from high-risk countries are temporarily embargoed from entry unless they meet CDC and USDA criteria.

You’ll also need to meet U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA-APHIS) rules on screwworm inspections for dogs arriving from specific countries.

Travelers who fail to meet these conditions cannot board, regardless of reservation status. Always double-check both airline and CDC documentation before departure.

Destination-Specific Rules for Service Animals

Different international airports enforce special entry procedures for American airline service dogs.
Here are a few examples from American Airlines’ official guidance:

• London (LHR): Approval from the Heathrow Animal Reception Center (HARC) at least 7 days before arrival.
• Scotland (EDI): Notify animal travel authorities 48 hours prior and provide valid training certification.
• Ireland: Mandatory veterinary compliance check upon arrival.
• India: Requires a No Objection Certificate from the Animal Quarantine & Certification Service.
• Japan: Must contact Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before arrival.
• Hong Kong: Contact local Agriculture & Fisheries Department 10 days in advance.

These steps are non-negotiable, even for recognized service dogs, and help ensure your pet’s entry is smooth and compliant.

Sedation and Safety Guidelines for Pet Travel

Can you sedate your pet before flying on American Airlines?

No. According to both American Airlines pet travel policy and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sedated or tranquilized pets are not accepted for air travel.
Sedation increases the risk of respiratory and heart complications, especially at high altitudes.

Instead, veterinarians recommend natural methods to reduce anxiety. Before your flight, help your pet feel safe by:

• Leaving the travel kennel open at home for familiarization.
• Placing a toy or blanket inside the carrier.
• Using lavender or chamomile herbal stress relievers (with vet approval).

If your animal appears sedated at check-in, American Airlines staff can refuse boarding under the AA airlines pet policy to protect its safety.

Choosing the Right Seat When Traveling With Pets

Carry-on pets must fit entirely under the seat in front of you. Because of this, certain seats are not permitted for travelers bringing pets.

Prohibited Seats for Pet Travel:

• Bulkhead and exit row seats.
• First and Business Class seats on Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft.
• Seat 13D on Airbus A321NEO.

If you’re flying the Airbus A321T (three-cabin configuration), pets in Business Class must use the dedicated animal-friendly compartment at the front of the cabin.

These seating rules apply to all AA travelling with pets bookings, ensuring safety compliance with FAA regulations.

Feeding, Watering, and Comfort During Flights

How should you prepare your pet’s food and water before flying?

The American Airlines pet travel requirements state that all checked or cargo pets must be:

• Offered food and water within four hours of drop-off.
• Accompanied by written feeding and watering certification.
• Supplied with 24-hour food instructions attached to the kennel.

Federal regulations prohibit leaving a note that says “no food or water.”
Even if your pet is flying in-cabin, feed lightly 3–4 hours before boarding and provide small amounts of water to prevent discomfort.

During long-haul flights, comfort stops may be arranged for cargo pets. Kennel staff will check health, clean the crate, and provide water and rest breaks.

Comfort Stops and Layovers for Cargo Pets

For pets traveling through American Airlines cargo pet travel, comfort stops are essential for long routes.

Comfort stop rules:

• Mandatory for dogs if the first leg exceeds 7 hours and includes a connection.
• Required for cats only if the total itinerary is over 24 hours.
• Conducted at licensed kennel facilities with temperature control and supervision.

If weather conditions become unsafe at any stop, the airline may temporarily house your pet in a local kennel until conditions improve.
This proactive care policy is a hallmark of American PetEmbark’s safety program.

Temperature Monitoring and Emergency Veterinary Support

American Airlines cargo pet travel includes active temperature monitoring at each stage of transport.
If any temperature drop or spike occurs outside the safe range (45-85°F), handlers will contact you immediately and relocate the animal to a climate-controlled facility.

In rare emergencies, the American PetEmbark veterinary team provides on-site or off-site medical care.
If the problem was pre-existing, the pet owner is responsible for treatment costs.
Otherwise, American covers full care expenses, a testament to its commitment to animal welfare under the American air pet policy.

Health and Behavior Checks Before Boarding

Before check-in, staff will perform a quick health and behavior inspection. Your pet must appear:

• Alert and responsive.
• Free from open wounds or illness.
• Calm and safe for transport.

If your pet shows aggression, visible stress, or breathing issues, boarding can be denied under American Airlines travel with pets policy.

For cargo pets, additional verification includes checking kennel bolts, cable ties, labels, and ventilation holes. This multi-step process ensures compliance with IATA Live Animal Regulations.

Day-of-Travel Checklist for Pet Owners

Here’s a quick checklist to simplify your American Airline pet travel experience:

✅ Step	Details
1. Confirm Eligibility	Pet species, size, and age meet airline rules.
2. Prepare Documents	Health certificate, vaccination records, and import/export forms ready.
3. Inspect Carrier	Matches approved pet travel carrier dimensions.
4. Label the Kennel	Include name, phone, and destination address.
5. Attach Feeding Info	List time of last meal and water offered.
6. Arrive Early	2–4 hours before departure for checked or cargo pets.
7. Pay Fees	Carry-on fee ($150) or applicable cargo/checked charges.
8. Stay Calm	Your behavior influences your pet’s comfort and stress.

Following this list not only satisfies airline requirements but also keeps your pet relaxed throughout its journey.

Practical Tips for Smooth Pet Travel

Here are additional insider tips for stress-free pet travel on American Airlines:

• Book nonstop flights whenever possible.
• Choose morning or evening departures in summer to avoid heat embargoes.
• Avoid tranquilizers; use natural comfort aids instead.
• Keep a collapsible bowl handy for hydration after landing.
• Reconfirm your pet’s reservation 48 hours before travel.

If you’re uncertain about your route’s suitability, the American Airline pet travel phone number (available on website) can connect you with the PetEmbark team for guidance.

American Airlines Pet Travel Cost Overview

How much does it cost to travel with pets on American Airlines?

The American Airline pet travel cost depends on the type of service you choose, destination, and your pet’s size.

Service Type	Region / Route	Cost (USD)	Notes
Carry-on pet	U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean	$150 per kennel each way	Small dogs / cats only
Checked pet (military / State Dept.)	U.S., Canada, Europe & Caribbean	$200 per kennel ($150 to Brazil)	Official orders required
Cargo – American PetEmbark®	Domestic & International	Variable ($200–$1000+)	Based on weight & destination
Service dog	All destinations	No fee	Must meet training rules

All American Airline pet travel fees are non-refundable and apply one-way per kennel.
Partner airlines may charge separate fees even if your ticket carries an American flight number.

Refunds and Delays

If your pet cannot travel on the booked flight due to factors within the airline’s control, American may issue partial refunds:

• 25 % of freight charges for PPS (Priority Parcel Service)
• 100 % for ExpediteFS cargo bookings

Weather, mechanical delays, or government restrictions are excluded.
When your pet’s flight is rescheduled, the reservation team prioritizes the next available aircraft under the same AA airlines pet policy.

American Airlines Pet Travel Forms and Documentation

For smooth boarding, print and keep these American Airline forms handy:

1. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (if traveling with a service dog).
2. DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form (for flights over 8 hours).
3. CDC Dog Import Form (for international arrivals to the U.S.).
4. USDA APHIS Health Certificate (for checked or cargo pets).
5. Letter of Acclimation (if travel in temperatures 20–44 °F).

These documents support the American Airlines pet travel documents checklist and should be reviewed 48 hours before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

American Airlines vs United vs Delta Airlines

If you’re exploring multiple carriers, review these detailed comparisons:

• Read the Delta Airlines Pet Travel Policy 2025 for Delta’s in-cabin and cargo rules.
• Check the United Airlines Pet Travel Policy to see how its PetSafe program differs.
• Visit the Airlines That Allow Pets guide for a complete comparison of pet-friendly airlines.

These internal resources strengthen your understanding of each American pet policy variation across U.S. carriers.

Expert Tips for Safe Pet Air Travel

• Confirm flight timing and temperature limits 24 hours before departure.
• Avoid layovers longer than 4 hours for checked pets.
• Use a soft-sided kennel for maximum under-seat flexibility.
• Label the carrier clearly with contact info and destination.
• Always consult your vet about hydration and stress control.

Conclusion – Simplify Your Pet’s Journey With American Airlines

The American Airlines pet travel policy balances comfort, compliance, and safety. Whether you’re booking a short domestic hop or planning American Airlines international pet travel, you’ll find clear rules on carrier sizes, forms, and fees.

Understanding the latest AA service animal guidelines and pet travel requirements ensures a smooth journey for both you and your companion. For more helpful details on forms, costs, and carrier sizes, explore our:

• Airline Pet Travel Requirements
• Pet Travel Documents
• Airline Pet Carrier Dimensions
• Airline Pet Travel Costs Guide