How Much To Fly A Cat On American Airlines?

admin
Chief Editor of - Book Premium Flight

If you’re a cat owner planning to travel with your furry friend, you might be wondering about the cost of flying your cat on American Airlines. Flying with pets can be a daunting experience, but understanding the expenses involved can help you prepare and budget accordingly.

In this article, we’ll explore the fees and requirements for flying a cat on American Airlines, along with some helpful tips to make the journey as smooth as possible for both you and your feline companion. So, let’s get started!

How Much to Fly a Cat on American Airlines?

Understanding Pet Travel Policies on American Airlines

If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend, you may be wondering how much it will cost to fly your cat on American Airlines. First, it’s important to understand the airline’s pet travel policies. American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with passengers, as well as in the cargo hold as checked baggage or as Manifest Cargo (when traveling alone). However, certain breeds of cats and dogs are not allowed to travel on American Airlines due to health concerns.

For in-cabin travel, cats must be at least 8 weeks old and fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The cost to bring your cat in the cabin is $125 each way, and there is a limit of one pet per passenger. For cats traveling as checked baggage or as Manifest Cargo, the cost varies depending on the size of the carrier and the weight of the animal. American Airlines also offers a specialized pet shipping service, which can handle all aspects of your pet’s travel for an additional fee.

Costs and Considerations for In-Cabin Cat Travel on American Airlines

If you’re planning to bring your cat in the cabin on American Airlines, there are a few costs and considerations to keep in mind. The fee for in-cabin pet travel is $125 each way, which can add up quickly if you’re traveling round-trip. Additionally, there is a limit of one pet per passenger, so if you’re traveling with multiple cats, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets for each one.

It’s important to note that not all cats are comfortable with air travel, and it’s important to prepare your cat for the journey ahead of time. This may include getting your cat used to their carrier, packing familiar items like toys and blankets, and discussing any necessary medications or sedatives with your veterinarian. Finally, it’s important to check with American Airlines for any additional requirements or restrictions before you travel.

Costs and Considerations for Checked Baggage or Manifest Cargo Cat Travel on American Airlines

For cats traveling as checked baggage or Manifest Cargo, the cost varies depending on the size of the carrier and the weight of the animal. The cost may range from $200-$650 each way, and it’s important to note that this option may not be available for all flights or destinations.

When traveling as checked baggage or Manifest Cargo, it’s important to ensure that your cat is properly secured in their carrier and that the carrier meets American Airlines’ size and weight requirements. Additionally, it’s important to provide your cat with enough food, water, and any necessary medications for the duration of the journey.

Benefits of Flying with Your Cat on American Airlines

While there are some costs and considerations to keep in mind when traveling with your cat on American Airlines, there are also some potential benefits. Bringing your cat in the cabin can give you peace of mind knowing that your pet is with you at all times, and can also help reduce stress for your cat. Additionally, American Airlines’ specialized pet shipping service can handle all aspects of your pet’s travel, making the process more streamlined and less stressful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost to fly your cat on American Airlines varies depending on the type of travel and the size and weight of your cat. It’s important to understand American Airlines’ pet travel policies, prepare your cat for the journey, and check with the airline for any additional requirements or restrictions. While there are some costs and considerations to keep in mind, traveling with your cat on American Airlines can also offer some potential benefits and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to flying a cat on American Airlines:

What are the requirements for flying a cat on American Airlines?

Before you book a flight for your feline friend on American Airlines, it’s important to ensure that your cat meets all the requirements set by the airline. Firstly, your cat must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Additionally, your cat should have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and proof of current vaccinations.

You also need to ensure that your cat is traveling in an airline-approved carrier that meets the size and weight requirements set by American Airlines. It’s recommended to make a reservation for your cat as early as possible as the number of pets allowed on a flight is limited.

What is the cost of flying a cat on American Airlines?

The cost of flying a cat on American Airlines varies depending on several factors such as the destination, the size of the carrier, and whether the flight is domestic or international. As of 2021, the fee for a cat to travel in the cabin of the plane within the United States is $125 each way. If you are traveling internationally, the fees can range from $200 to $750 depending on the destination.

It’s essential to note that the fees for flying a pet on American Airlines are non-refundable. It’s recommended to confirm the fees and policies before making a reservation for your cat.

Can I travel with more than one cat on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows a maximum of two cats to travel in the same carrier if they are of the same breed and weigh less than 20 pounds combined. If you have more than two cats, you will need to book an additional carrier and pay an additional fee for each cat. It’s important to note that only one pet carrier is allowed per customer.

Additionally, it’s recommended to contact American Airlines Reservations in advance to confirm the availability of space for multiple pets on the flight you wish to book.

Can I bring my cat’s food and water during the flight?

American Airlines allows pet owners to bring a small amount of food and water for their cats during the flight. It’s recommended to pack the food and water in spill-proof containers and attach them to the carrier. However, it’s important to check with American Airlines’ guidelines as there may be restrictions on the type of food and water allowed on the plane.

It’s also essential to note that American Airlines does not provide food or water during the flight, so it’s necessary to ensure that your cat has enough food and water to last the duration of the flight.

What should I do if my cat becomes anxious during the flight?

It’s common for cats to become anxious during a flight due to unfamiliar surroundings and noises. Before the flight, it’s recommended to speak to your veterinarian about ways to calm your cat during the journey, such as using calming sprays or medication.

During the flight, it’s essential to keep your cat’s carrier covered and ensure that your cat is comfortable and secure. You can also place a familiar item such as a blanket or toy in the carrier to help your cat feel more at ease. If you notice any signs of distress or discomfort, inform the flight attendants immediately.

In conclusion, flying with your furry friend can be a convenient and exciting experience. However, it is important to plan ahead and understand the costs involved. American Airlines offers a pet travel service that allows you to bring your cat along for the ride, but pricing can vary depending on several factors.

The cost of flying your cat on American Airlines can range from $125 to $700 or more, depending on the size of your pet, the distance of your flight, and the type of cabin you choose. It is also important to factor in additional fees for a pet carrier, health certificate, and other requirements.

Despite the potential costs, many cat owners find the experience of traveling with their pet to be well worth it. With careful planning and preparation, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be a safe and enjoyable way to explore new destinations or visit loved ones.

Scroll to Top