How To Add A Carry On Pet American Airlines?

Are you planning a trip with your furry friend? As a pet parent, it’s important to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during air travel. American Airlines allows you to bring your pet on board as a carry-on, but the process can be confusing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to add a carry-on pet to your American Airlines reservation, so you can travel stress-free with your furry companion.

Whether you are a first-time flyer with your pet or a seasoned traveler, we’ve got you covered. From the necessary documentation to the size requirements for pet carriers, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully add a carry-on pet to your American Airlines flight. So, let’s get started and make sure your furry friend gets to join you on your next adventure!

How to Add a Carry on Pet American Airlines?

Traveling with your pet on an American Airlines flight is easy and convenient. American Airlines allows small pets, including dogs and cats, to travel with you in the cabin of the aircraft. However, there are certain rules and regulations that you need to follow in order to add your carry-on pet to your American Airlines flight. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding a carry-on pet to your American Airlines flight.

Step 1: Check the Pet Policy

Before booking your flight, it’s important to check American Airlines’ pet policy. Make sure your pet meets the size and weight requirements for in-cabin travel. American Airlines allows only one pet per passenger, and the pet must fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high.

Additionally, American Airlines only allows pets on flights within the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean.

Benefits of traveling with a carry-on pet

Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful experience. Having your furry friend with you can help ease any anxiety or stress you may feel while traveling. Plus, your pet will appreciate being close to you during the flight.

VS traveling with a checked pet

Traveling with a checked pet can be stressful for both you and your pet. Your pet will be in a separate area of the plane, and you won’t be able to check on them during the flight. Plus, there is always a risk of lost or delayed luggage, which could mean your pet is stuck in their carrier for longer than expected.

Step 2: Book Your Flight

Once you have confirmed that your pet meets American Airlines’ pet policy, you can book your flight. During the booking process, you will need to indicate that you will be traveling with a pet. There is a fee of $125 each way for in-cabin pets.

Benefits of booking your flight in advance

Booking your flight in advance can help ensure that there is space available for your pet on the flight. American Airlines limits the number of pets allowed in the cabin, so it’s important to book early to avoid disappointment.

VS booking your flight last minute

Booking your flight last minute can be risky when traveling with a pet. If there is no space available for your pet on the flight, you may need to reschedule your travel plans.

Step 3: Prepare Your Pet for Travel

Before your flight, you will need to prepare your pet for travel. This includes getting a health certificate from your veterinarian and making sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations.

You will also need to purchase an airline-approved carrier for your pet. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. You should also include a comfortable blanket or pad for your pet to rest on during the flight.

Benefits of preparing your pet for travel

Preparing your pet for travel can help reduce their stress and anxiety during the flight. Plus, having a health certificate and up-to-date vaccinations can help ensure a smooth check-in process.

VS not preparing your pet for travel

Not preparing your pet for travel can lead to a stressful and uncomfortable experience for both you and your pet. Your pet may become anxious or agitated during the flight, which could lead to disruptive behavior.

Step 4: Check In at the Airport

On the day of your flight, you will need to check in at the airport. Make sure to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in and security.

During the check-in process, you will need to provide the airline with your pet’s health certificate and proof of up-to-date vaccinations. The airline will also weigh your pet and carrier to ensure that they meet the size and weight requirements.

Benefits of checking in early

Checking in early can help ensure a smooth check-in process for you and your pet. Plus, it gives you plenty of time to get through security and find your gate.

VS checking in late

Checking in late can lead to a stressful and rushed check-in process. You may not have enough time to get through security and find your gate, which could result in a missed flight.

Step 5: Board Your Flight with Your Pet

Once you have checked in, you can board your flight with your pet. Make sure to keep your pet in their carrier at all times during the flight.

During takeoff and landing, you will need to stow your pet’s carrier under the seat in front of you. Once the plane has reached cruising altitude, you can take your pet out of their carrier and hold them on your lap or on the floor in front of you.

Benefits of boarding with your pet

Boarding with your pet allows you to keep an eye on them during the flight and ensure that they are comfortable and secure.

VS not boarding with your pet

Not boarding with your pet can be stressful for both you and your pet. Your pet may become anxious or agitated during the flight, which could lead to disruptive behavior.

Step 6: Arrive at Your Destination with Your Pet

Once you have arrived at your destination, you can collect your luggage and exit the airport with your pet. Make sure to keep your pet in their carrier until you are outside of the airport.

Benefits of arriving at your destination with your pet

Arriving at your destination with your pet can be a wonderful experience. Your pet will be happy to be reunited with you, and you can start your vacation together.

VS arriving at your destination without your pet

Arriving at your destination without your pet can be disappointing and stressful. You may worry about their well-being during the flight and feel anxious about picking them up from the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about adding a carry on pet on American Airlines.

What is American Airlines’ policy on carrying pets on board?

American Airlines allows small pets to travel in the cabin on most flights within the U.S. and to some international destinations. Pets must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you and they must remain in the carrier for the entire flight. There is a fee for bringing a pet on board and you must make a reservation for your pet in advance.

For larger pets, American Airlines offers a cargo service for animals that are too big to travel in the cabin. There are different requirements for this service, including specific carrier dimensions and health certificates, so it’s important to check with the airline before booking.

What kind of pets are allowed to travel in the cabin on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin as carry on pets. Other pets, such as birds, rabbits, and guinea pigs, are not allowed in the cabin. Additionally, emotional support and service animals are allowed on board but there are different requirements for those types of animals, including documentation and advance notice to the airline.

The pet must be able to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and the pet must be able to move around comfortably inside the carrier.

What is the fee for bringing a carry on pet on American Airlines?

The fee for bringing a carry on pet on American Airlines is $125 each way. The fee is charged per carrier, so if you have two pets in one carrier, you will only be charged once. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of booking your pet’s reservation.

If you are traveling on an international flight, there may be additional fees and requirements for bringing your pet along. It’s important to check with the airline and the destination country’s regulations before booking.

How do I make a reservation for my pet on American Airlines?

To make a reservation for your pet on American Airlines, you must call the airline’s reservations department. You cannot make a reservation for your pet online. You should make the reservation for your pet as soon as possible, as there are limited spots available for carry on pets on each flight.

You will need to provide information about your pet, including its size, breed, and age, as well as your contact information and travel itinerary. You will also need to pay the pet fee at the time of booking.

What do I need to bring with me when traveling with a carry on pet on American Airlines?

When traveling with a carry on pet on American Airlines, you will need to bring an approved carrier for your pet, as well as any necessary paperwork, such as health certificates or vaccination records. You may also want to bring food, water, and other supplies for your pet, as well as a leash and collar.

It’s important to arrive at the airport early when traveling with a pet, as you will need to go through additional security screening with your pet and check in at the ticket counter.

American Airlines Cargo | Pet EmBark

In conclusion, adding a carry-on pet on American Airlines can be quite a simple process if you follow these steps. First, make sure your pet meets the airline’s requirements for size, weight, and breed. Then, purchase the appropriate carrier and make sure it is compliant with American Airlines’ guidelines. Finally, book your pet’s reservation and arrive at the airport early to check-in and board your flight with ease.

Traveling with your furry companion can be a wonderful experience, and with American Airlines’ pet policy, you can rest assured that your pet will be safe and comfortable during the flight. By following the guidelines and taking the necessary steps, you can enjoy a stress-free trip with your beloved pet by your side.

In summary, adding a carry-on pet on American Airlines requires a bit of preparation and attention to detail. However, with the right carrier and a little bit of planning, you can ensure that your furry friend travels safely and comfortably with you on your next trip. So go ahead and book that flight, and get ready to make unforgettable memories with your furry companion.