Are you planning to travel with your feline friend on American Airlines? If you’re a cat owner, you might be wondering if American Airlines allows cats. Before you start packing your bags, it’s important to know the airline’s policies and requirements for traveling with pets.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of American Airlines’ pet travel policy and answer your burning questions about flying with your furry companion. From fees and carrier requirements to health documentation and restrictions, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore whether or not you can bring your beloved cat on your next American Airlines flight.
H2: Does American Airlines Allow Cats?
If you’re planning a trip and want to bring your furry feline friend along, you may be wondering if American Airlines allows cats on their flights. The good news is that American Airlines does allow cats on their flights, but there are some important rules and requirements that you need to be aware of before booking your ticket.
H3: Types of Cats Allowed on American Airlines Flights
American Airlines allows domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin or cargo hold, depending on the size of the pet and the flight’s destination. However, if you want to bring your cat on board, it must meet the airline’s requirements for size, weight, and health. The cat must also be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned.
H3: Cabin Travel Requirements for Cats
If your cat meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions, you can bring your cat on board as a carry-on item. The cat carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and the cat must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight. The cat carrier must also meet the airline’s requirements for size and ventilation.
H3: Cargo Hold Travel Requirements for Cats
If your cat is too large to travel in the cabin, it may be able to travel in the cargo hold. However, this option is only available for certain flights, and there are specific requirements that must be met. Your cat’s carrier must be approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and it must meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions. You must also provide a health certificate from your veterinarian.
H3: Fees for Traveling with Cats on American Airlines
American Airlines charges a fee for pets traveling in the cabin or cargo hold. The fee varies depending on the destination and the type of pet carrier used. If you’re traveling with a cat in the cabin, the fee is $125 each way. If you’re traveling with a cat in the cargo hold, the fee ranges from $200 to $750 each way, depending on the destination.
H3: Benefits of Traveling with Your Cat on American Airlines
Traveling with your cat can be a rewarding experience, and American Airlines makes it easy for cat owners to bring their pets along on their trips. By following the airline’s requirements for size, weight, and health, you can ensure that your cat has a safe and comfortable journey. Traveling with your cat can also help reduce stress and anxiety, as you’ll be able to keep an eye on your furry friend throughout the flight.
H3: Tips for Traveling with Your Cat on American Airlines
Before you travel with your cat on American Airlines, there are some important tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your cat is comfortable in its carrier before the flight. You may also want to consider giving your cat a mild sedative to help calm its nerves. Additionally, make sure you bring plenty of food, water, and treats for your cat, as well as any necessary medications. Finally, be prepared for possible delays or cancellations due to weather or other factors.
H3: Conclusion – American Airlines is a Great Option for Cat Owners
If you’re a cat owner who loves to travel, American Airlines is a great option for bringing your furry friend along. By following the airline’s requirements and tips for traveling with cats, you can ensure that your cat has a safe and comfortable journey. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, your cat can be a wonderful companion along the way.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What pets are allowed on American Airlines?
- What are the fees for bringing a pet on American Airlines?
- What are the size and weight restrictions for pet carriers on American Airlines?
- What documentation is required for pets traveling on American Airlines?
- What is American Airlines’ policy on pet safety and comfort?
- New Rules For Traveling With Pets
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about American Airlines’ pet policy:
What pets are allowed on American Airlines?
American Airlines allows dogs and cats to travel as carry-on or checked baggage on select flights within the United States. Emotional support animals and service animals are also permitted on all flights. Other pets such as birds and rabbits are not allowed.
Pet owners must comply with specific rules and regulations in order to bring their animals on board. These include providing proof of vaccination, ensuring that the pet is properly secured in an airline-approved carrier, and paying the appropriate fees.
What are the fees for bringing a pet on American Airlines?
The fees for bringing a pet on American Airlines depend on the type of pet, the flight destination, and whether the pet is traveling as carry-on or checked baggage. For pets traveling in the cabin, the fee is $125 each way. For pets traveling as checked baggage, the fee is $200 each way. Service animals and emotional support animals are not subject to these fees.
Pet owners should also be aware that some destinations may have additional requirements or fees for bringing animals into the area. It is important to check with the airline and local authorities before booking a pet-friendly trip.
What are the size and weight restrictions for pet carriers on American Airlines?
Pet carriers on American Airlines must meet specific size and weight requirements in order to be allowed on board. For pets traveling in the cabin, carriers must be able to fit under the seat in front of the owner and cannot exceed 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. For pets traveling as checked baggage, carriers must not exceed a combined weight of 100 pounds and must be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
It is important to note that only one pet is allowed per carrier, and the carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. Pet owners should also label the carrier with their contact information and the pet’s name and feeding instructions.
What documentation is required for pets traveling on American Airlines?
Pet owners must provide certain documentation in order to bring their animals on board American Airlines. This includes proof of vaccination and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Service animals and emotional support animals may require additional documentation depending on the nature of the animal and the passenger’s needs.
It is the responsibility of the pet owner to ensure that all documentation is in order before arriving at the airport. Failure to provide the necessary paperwork may result in the pet being denied boarding.
What is American Airlines’ policy on pet safety and comfort?
American Airlines takes the safety and comfort of all animals on board very seriously. The airline follows strict guidelines for the transport of pets, and all animals are kept in climate-controlled areas of the aircraft. Pet owners are also encouraged to take certain steps to ensure their animals’ comfort during the flight, such as providing a familiar blanket or toy and avoiding feeding the pet for several hours before the flight.
If a pet becomes ill or distressed during the flight, American Airlines’ trained staff will take appropriate measures to care for the animal and alert the owner as soon as possible. In the rare event that a pet is lost or injured during transport, the airline will work with the owner to provide appropriate compensation and support.
New Rules For Traveling With Pets
In conclusion, American Airlines allows cats on their flights, making it easier for pet owners to travel with their furry companions. While there are certain guidelines and requirements that must be met, such as proper documentation and appropriate carriers, the airline strives to make the process as smooth as possible for both the pets and their owners.
Traveling with a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be stressful without the right preparations. By choosing to fly with American Airlines and following their guidelines for pet travel, pet owners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their cats are in good hands and will arrive at their destination safely.
Overall, American Airlines’ pet policy demonstrates their commitment to accommodating the needs of their passengers, including those with pets. Whether you’re planning a cross-country move or simply taking a vacation with your furry friend, American Airlines makes it possible to travel with ease and convenience.