Traveling with pets can be an exciting adventure, and for pet owners, bringing their beloved companions along is often a top priority. If you’re considering flying with Allegiant Air and want to know about their pet policy, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Allegiant Air Pet Policy, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience for both you and your animal companion.
Whether you’re planning to travel with a small dog, cat, or even a miniature horse (as emotional support animals), understanding the airline’s specific regulations is crucial. Allegiant Air, known for its budget-friendly flights, has a pet policy that, while welcoming to certain animals, comes with specific guidelines and restrictions. Let’s dive into the details to help you prepare for your journey.
Understanding Allegiant Air’s Pet Policy: Key Highlights
Allegiant Air’s pet policy is designed to accommodate specific types of animals under certain conditions. It’s essential to understand that their policy differs slightly for general pets and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs). Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Types of Pets Allowed: Allegiant Air primarily allows small dogs and cats as pets in the cabin. For Emotional Support Animals, they extend this to miniature horses, dogs, and cats.
- Fees and Charges: While ESAs with proper documentation generally fly for free, standard pet travel usually involves fees. Understanding these costs is crucial for budget planning.
- Carrier Requirements: For pets traveling in the cabin, specific carrier size and type restrictions apply to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
- Documentation: Depending on whether your animal is a pet or an ESA, different documentation requirements exist. ESAs, for instance, require specific forms and potentially an ESA letter.
- Breed and Animal Restrictions: Allegiant Air, like many airlines, has restrictions on certain breeds and animal types for safety reasons.
Allegiant Air Pet Policy for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
If you are traveling with an Emotional Support Animal, Allegiant Air is generally welcoming. It’s important to note that airline policies regarding ESAs can be subject to change, particularly following updates from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Always verify the most current policies directly with Allegiant Air before your travel date.
Historically, Allegiant Air has been accommodating to ESAs, recognizing their importance for passengers with emotional disabilities. Here’s what you typically need to know:
ESA Travel is Typically Free with Proper Documentation
One of the significant benefits for passengers traveling with an ESA on Allegiant Air is that, with the correct documentation, there are generally no pet fees. This can be a considerable saving, making travel more accessible for individuals who rely on their ESAs.
The Importance of an ESA Letter
To qualify for these benefits, you’ll need an official ESA letter issued by a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP). This letter serves as legitimate proof that your animal is not just a pet but a vital emotional support animal prescribed to assist with a diagnosed mental health condition. A simple doctor’s note might not suffice, so ensure you have the correct ESA letter from an LMHP.
Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and Your Rights
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) plays a crucial role in allowing passengers with disabilities to travel with their emotional support or service animals without being charged pet fees. This act mandates that airlines must accommodate passengers with disabilities, making air travel more inclusive and less stressful for them.
CertaPet and Obtaining Your ESA Letter
For those seeking to obtain an ESA letter, services like CertaPet can be helpful. CertaPet connects individuals with Licensed Mental Health Professionals who can evaluate the need for an ESA and, if appropriate, issue an official ESA letter. Having this letter is a fundamental step in ensuring your emotional support animal can fly with you on Allegiant Air.
man comforting his sad dog with a hug.
A loving moment between a man and his dog, highlighting the emotional support animals provide to their owners.
Animal and Breed Restrictions on Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air’s pet policy includes certain restrictions on the types of animals and breeds they allow on board, particularly as ESAs.
- Allowed ESA Types: Typically, Allegiant Air permits miniature horses, dogs, and cats as Emotional Support Animals.
- Breed Restrictions: It’s important to note that certain breed restrictions may apply, particularly for dogs. For example, “pit bull type” dogs might not be allowed, reflecting common airline concerns about specific breeds. Always confirm breed restrictions with Allegiant Air directly, as these policies can change.
It’s also worth noting that Allegiant Air has a separate pet policy for general pet travel, which may have similar animal and breed restrictions but different regulations regarding fees, carrier requirements, and documentation.
Cabin Policies for Emotional Support Animals
Not all ESAs are automatically allowed in the cabin. Allegiant Air specifies which types of ESAs can travel with you in the cabin:
- Eligible Cabin ESAs: Miniature horses, dogs, and cats are generally permitted to travel in the cabin as ESAs, provided they meet size and behavior requirements.
ESAs as Carry-On: Size and Carrier Guidelines
Allegiant Air treats ESAs much like carry-on luggage in terms of space and placement.
- Carry-On ESA Policy: Ideally, your ESA should be small enough to fit at your feet or under the seat in front of you. If your ESA is too large to fit comfortably in this space, you might need to purchase an additional seat to accommodate them.
- In-Cabin Carrier Specifications: While not always mandatory for ESAs, using a carrier is often recommended. If you choose to use one, it should be soft-sided and fit under the seat. The recommended dimensions are typically around 9 inches in height, 16 inches in width, and 19 inches in depth. The carrier should also be leak-proof and well-ventilated to ensure hygiene and comfort.
- During the Flight: Your ESA should remain inside its carrier (if used) or at your feet throughout the flight. They should not obstruct aisles, occupy seats, or disturb other passengers.
Kennel and Carrier Strictness
Airlines, including Allegiant Air, are generally strict about kennel and carrier requirements for safety and regulatory compliance. It’s crucial to adhere to the specified size restrictions, as there is little room for negotiation at the gate. If your ESA or pet carrier does not meet the requirements, your animal may have to travel as checked baggage (if permitted and feasible) or may be denied boarding.
Required Documentation for Flying with an ESA on Allegiant Air
To ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process when traveling with your ESA on Allegiant Air, you must have all the necessary documentation. Typically, this includes:
- Veterinary Health Form: This form, completed by a licensed veterinarian, confirms your animal is healthy and up-to-date on all required vaccinations.
- Mental Health Professional Form: In addition to your ESA letter, Allegiant Air may require a specific form to be filled out by your mental health professional. This form often confirms that you are under their care for a mental or emotional disability recognized in the DSM-5 and that the ESA is necessary for your well-being during travel.
- Animal Behavior and Responsibility Form: You will likely need to sign a form acknowledging your responsibility for your ESA’s behavior during the flight. This form usually states that you are liable for any damage or disturbance caused by your animal.
You can usually find these forms on the Allegiant Air website, often within their special assistance or accessibility section. It’s advisable to download, print, and complete these forms well in advance of your travel date. Ensure you have physical copies to present at the ticket counter, typically at least 45 minutes before your scheduled boarding time.
For flights outside the contiguous 48 states, such as to Hawaii or Alaska, or for international travel, additional health documents and permits might be required by local authorities. Always check the specific requirements for your destination well in advance.
Pre-Flight Checklist for Traveling with Your ESA on Allegiant Air
To minimize stress and ensure you and your ESA are fully prepared for your Allegiant Air flight, use this checklist:
- Documentation: Double-check that you have all required ESA documents, including your ESA letter, veterinary health form, and mental health professional form, and the animal behavior form.
- Carrier: If using a carrier, ensure it is soft-sided and meets Allegiant Air’s size restrictions.
- Pet Supplies: Pack enough food and water for your ESA, especially in case of flight delays. Consider bringing comfort items like a familiar blanket or toy.
- Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport with ample time to check in at the ticket counter at least 45 minutes before boarding, as required by Allegiant Air for passengers with ESAs.
This checklist is also applicable for those traveling with psychiatric service animals, as the documentation and preparation steps are often similar under Allegiant Air’s policy.
Contacting Allegiant Air for Further Information
If you have specific questions or need clarification on any aspect of Allegiant Air’s pet policy, especially concerning Emotional Support Animals, it’s best to contact them directly.
- Customer Service Number: Allegiant Air’s customer service can be reached at (702) 505-8888. Customer service representatives can provide detailed information, answer your questions, and guide you through the necessary procedures and form-filling processes.
It’s recommended to contact Allegiant Air as early as possible in your travel planning, ideally at least 24 hours before your flight, to ensure you have all the correct information and have completed all necessary steps.
Exploring Other Airline Pet Policies
If you are considering different airlines or want to compare policies, resources are available to help you understand pet travel regulations across various carriers. Many websites and travel blogs offer comprehensive guides and comparisons of airline pet policies, including those for Emotional Support Animals and general pets.
Common Questions About Allegiant Air Pet Policy
What are the fees for pets on Allegiant Air?
Refer to Allegiant Air’s pet policy page for details on current fees for standard pet travel. Note that documented ESAs typically travel without fees.
Can I bring a bird as an emotional support animal on Allegiant Air?
Allegiant Air’s policy generally specifies dogs, cats, and miniature horses as permitted ESAs. Always confirm directly with the airline for the most accurate information regarding specific animal types.
By understanding and adhering to Allegiant Air’s pet policy, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience with your animal companion. Always prioritize direct communication with the airline to confirm the most up-to-date regulations and requirements before your travel date.
Disclaimer: Airline policies can change. Always check the official Allegiant Air website or contact their customer service directly for the most current and accurate information before making travel arrangements for you and your pet.
