Does American Airlines Allow Dogs?

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As a pet owner, flying with your furry friend can be a daunting task. With all the different airlines and their respective pet policies, it can be hard to know which one to choose. If you’re wondering whether American Airlines allows dogs on their flights, you’re in the right place.

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and they do allow dogs on their flights. However, there are certain rules and regulations that you need to be aware of before booking your ticket. In this article, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about flying with your dog on American Airlines.

American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin or cargo hold, depending on the size and breed of the dog, as well as the length of the flight. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and have all necessary vaccinations. There is a fee for bringing a dog on board, and reservations must be made in advance.

Does American Airlines Allow Dogs?

Does American Airlines Allow Dogs?

If you’re a pet owner planning to travel with your furry friend, you may be wondering if American Airlines allows dogs on their flights. The answer is yes, American Airlines does allow dogs on their flights, but there are certain guidelines and restrictions that you need to be aware of before booking your ticket.

Types of Dogs Allowed on American Airlines Flights

American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin and cargo hold of their planes, but the type of dog and the size of its carrier will determine where it can travel. American Airlines allows small dogs to travel in the cabin, while larger dogs must be transported in the cargo hold.

To travel in the cabin, your dog and its carrier must not weigh more than 20 pounds combined. If your dog and its carrier weigh more than 20 pounds, it must be transported in the cargo hold. American Airlines also requires that your dog be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in its carrier.

Restrictions and Guidelines for Traveling with Dogs on American Airlines Flights

When traveling with your dog on American Airlines, there are certain guidelines and restrictions that you need to follow. American Airlines requires that you check in at least one hour before your flight if you are traveling with your dog. You must also provide a health certificate for your dog that is no more than 10 days old.

If you are traveling with your dog in the cabin, it must remain in its carrier at all times during the flight. Your dog’s carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and you are only allowed one dog per carrier. If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, it must be transported in a carrier that meets American Airlines’ size requirements and is properly ventilated.

Benefits of Traveling with Your Dog on American Airlines Flights

Traveling with your dog on American Airlines has its benefits. For one, you get to keep your furry friend by your side during the flight. This can be comforting for both you and your dog, especially if your dog gets anxious during travel.

American Airlines also offers a frequent flyer program for pets called the “Citi AAdvantage® Million Miler™ Program”. This program allows you to earn miles for your pet’s travel, which can be redeemed for future flights.

Traveling with Your Dog on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines

When it comes to traveling with your dog, American Airlines is not the only airline that allows pets on their flights. Many other airlines also allow pets, but their guidelines and restrictions may differ from American Airlines.

For example, Delta Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin and cargo hold, but they have weight restrictions that differ from American Airlines. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines also allow pets to travel, but their guidelines and restrictions may differ as well.

Conclusion

If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend, American Airlines is a great option for pet-friendly travel. They allow dogs to travel in both the cabin and cargo hold, and offer guidelines and restrictions to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the flight. Be sure to follow all guidelines and restrictions when traveling with your dog on American Airlines to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for both you and your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Airlines’ pet policy?

American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel with their owners in the cabin, as long as they meet specific requirements. The pet must fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of the owner. Additionally, the pet must be at least 8 weeks old, have all required vaccinations, and be odorless, harmless, and not disruptive.

Owners must also pay a pet fee of $125 each way, per pet, and the pet must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight. It’s important to note that American Airlines does not transport pets in the cargo hold, except for certain exceptions, such as service animals.

What types of pets are allowed on American Airlines?

American Airlines only allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin with their owners. Other animals, such as birds, rabbits, and hamsters, are not permitted on American Airlines flights, even in the cargo hold.

If a passenger requires a service animal that is not a cat or dog, they should contact American Airlines for more information on how to make arrangements.

What are the carrier requirements for pets on American Airlines?

Pet carriers on American Airlines must fit under the seat in front of the owner and meet specific size requirements. The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier are 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high.

Additionally, the pet must be able to move around comfortably inside the carrier and must have proper ventilation. The carrier itself must be leak-proof and escape-proof.

Can pets travel internationally on American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines permits pets to travel internationally, but there are specific requirements that must be met. Owners should contact the appropriate authorities in their destination country to inquire about any necessary documents or vaccinations.

Additionally, it’s important to note that some countries may have strict quarantine requirements for pets entering the country. Owners should do their research and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

What should I do if my pet is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat on American Airlines?

If a pet is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat on American Airlines, the pet will not be allowed to travel in the cabin. However, American Airlines does permit pets to travel in the cargo hold on certain flights.

Owners should contact American Airlines for more information on shipping their pets in the cargo hold, including any specific requirements or fees that may apply. It’s important to note that traveling in the cargo hold can be stressful for pets, so owners should carefully consider this option before making a decision.

How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines


In conclusion, American Airlines is a pet-friendly airline that accommodates dogs on their flights. They allow small dogs to travel in-cabin with their owners, while larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold. It is important to note that there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met before flying with your furry friend.

If you plan on traveling with your dog on American Airlines, be sure to check their pet policy and guidelines beforehand. This will ensure that your pet meets all necessary requirements and that you have all the necessary paperwork and documentation.

Traveling with your dog can be a great experience, but it is important to make sure that your pet is safe and comfortable throughout the journey. With American Airlines’ pet policy and guidelines, you can rest assured that your furry friend will be well taken care of during their travels.

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