How To Add A Pet On American Airlines?

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Are you planning to travel with your furry friend on American Airlines? Adding a pet to your travel itinerary may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a stress-free experience. In this guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of adding a pet on American Airlines, so you can have peace of mind and enjoy your trip with your beloved companion.

From booking to check-in and boarding, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling with a pet on American Airlines. Whether you’re a first-time pet traveler or a seasoned pro, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. So, let’s get started and make sure your pet is ready for takeoff!

How to Add a Pet on American Airlines?

How to Add a Pet on American Airlines?

Traveling with a pet can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a daunting task, especially if you’re flying with them. American Airlines is one of the major airlines that allows pets to travel with their owners. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of adding a pet on American Airlines, so you can fly with your furry friend with ease.

Step 1: Check American Airlines’ Pet Policy

Before adding your pet to your American Airlines booking, it’s essential to review the airline’s pet policy. American Airlines allows pets to travel as carry-on, checked baggage, or cargo. However, each option has specific requirements and restrictions. For instance, the size and weight of your pet will determine whether they can travel in-cabin or as checked baggage. Additionally, there are breed restrictions for brachycephalic or snub-nosed pets.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, make sure to read and understand the pet policy before booking your flight.

Step 2: Book Your Flight and Add Your Pet

Once you’ve reviewed American Airlines’ pet policy and confirmed that your pet meets the requirements, it’s time to book your flight and add your pet to your reservation. You can do this online or by calling American Airlines’ reservations team.

When adding your pet to your booking, you’ll need to provide some essential information, such as your pet’s name, breed, age, and weight. You’ll also be required to pay a pet fee, which varies depending on the travel option you choose.

Step 3: Prepare Your Pet for Travel

Preparing your pet for air travel is crucial to ensure their comfort and safety during the flight. If you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, you’ll need to ensure that they’re comfortable in their carrier and that the carrier meets American Airlines’ requirements.

If your pet is traveling as checked baggage or cargo, you’ll need to ensure that they’re adequately secured in their crate and that the crate meets the airline’s requirements. Additionally, make sure to provide your pet with enough food and water for the duration of the flight.

Step 4: Check-In With Your Pet

When it’s time to check-in for your flight, make sure to check-in with your pet as well. You’ll need to provide the airline with your pet’s documentation, such as their health certificate and vaccination records.

If you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, you’ll need to bring them to the gate for inspection. If your pet is traveling as checked baggage or cargo, you’ll need to drop them off at the designated area.

Step 5: Board the Plane With Your Pet

Once you’ve checked in with your pet, it’s time to board the plane. If you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, you’ll need to place their carrier under the seat in front of you.

If your pet is traveling as checked baggage or cargo, they’ll be loaded onto the plane separately. Make sure to inform the flight attendants that your pet is on board.

The Benefits of Traveling with a Pet on American Airlines

Traveling with your pet on American Airlines has several benefits, such as:

1. Your pet can travel with you in-cabin, which allows you to keep an eye on them and ensure their safety and comfort.

2. American Airlines provides a Pet Travel Kit, which includes a collapsible water bowl, ID tag, and blanket, to make your pet’s travel experience more comfortable.

3. The airline has trained professionals to handle pets traveling as checked baggage or cargo, ensuring their safety and comfort.

American Airlines Pet Travel Vs. Other Airlines

Compared to other airlines, American Airlines’ pet travel policy is relatively flexible, allowing pets to travel as carry-on, checked baggage, or cargo. However, the pet fees are slightly higher than other airlines, and there are breed restrictions for snub-nosed pets.

In contrast, some airlines only allow pets to travel as checked baggage or cargo, while others only allow pets to travel in-cabin. Additionally, some airlines have more stringent requirements for pet carriers and documentation.

Conclusion

Traveling with your pet on American Airlines can be a fantastic experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can add your pet to your American Airlines booking and ensure their safety and comfort during the flight. Remember to review the airline’s pet policy, prepare your pet for travel, and check-in with them before boarding the plane. With the right preparation, you and your furry friend can enjoy a stress-free flight on American Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about adding a pet on American Airlines.

What are the requirements for adding a pet on American Airlines?

Before adding a pet on American Airlines, you must ensure that your pet meets the airline’s requirements. Here are a few of the requirements:

  • Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
  • Your pet must be in good health and able to withstand the rigors of travel.
  • Your pet must have all necessary vaccinations and paperwork.

Once you’ve confirmed that your pet meets these requirements, you can proceed with adding them to your American Airlines reservation.

How do I add a pet to my American Airlines reservation?

You can add a pet to your American Airlines reservation by contacting the airline’s reservations department. Here are the steps:

  • Call American Airlines reservations at least 48 hours before your flight.
  • Inform the representative that you want to add a pet to your reservation.
  • Provide the representative with your pet’s information, including breed, age, and weight.
  • Pay the required pet fee.

After completing these steps, your pet will be added to your American Airlines reservation and you’ll be ready to travel.

What is the cost of adding a pet on American Airlines?

The cost of adding a pet to your American Airlines reservation varies based on the size of your pet and the length of your flight. Here are some general guidelines:

  • For flights within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, the pet fee is $125 each way.
  • For flights to and from South America, the pet fee is $200 each way.
  • For flights to and from Europe, the pet fee is $200 each way.

It’s important to note that the pet fee is nonrefundable and must be paid at the time of booking.

What types of pets are allowed on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows both dogs and cats to travel as pets. However, there are some restrictions based on breed and size. Here are a few of the restrictions:

  • Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are not allowed on flights longer than 12 hours.
  • Pets must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down in their carrier.
  • The combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 20 pounds.

It’s important to check the airline’s website for a complete list of restrictions before booking your pet’s travel.

What should I know about traveling with my pet on American Airlines?

Traveling with a pet on American Airlines can be a bit stressful, but there are a few things you can do to make the experience more comfortable for your furry friend. Here are some tips:

  • Book a direct flight whenever possible to reduce stress on your pet.
  • Feed your pet a light meal a few hours before the flight.
  • Make sure your pet has access to water throughout the flight.
  • Bring a familiar blanket or toy to help your pet feel more comfortable.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pet has a safe and comfortable travel experience on American Airlines.

American Airlines Cargo | Pet EmBark


In conclusion, adding your furry friend to your American Airlines flight is a simple and straightforward process. By following the airline’s guidelines and ensuring that your pet meets all the necessary requirements, you can make sure that your pet’s journey is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Remember to book your pet’s ticket well in advance, as there are a limited number of spots available on each flight. Additionally, it’s a good idea to prepare your pet for the flight by acclimating them to their travel crate and providing them with plenty of opportunities to exercise and relieve themselves before the flight.

Finally, make sure to communicate with the airline staff and inform them of any special requirements or concerns you may have. With a bit of preparation and communication, your pet can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey on American Airlines.

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