Traveling with your furry, feathered, or hoppy friend on Alaska Airlines? It’s absolutely paw-sible! Alaska Airlines welcomes small pets to travel in the cabin with you, making it easier than ever to bring your beloved companion along for the journey. To ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for both you and your pet, understanding the airline’s pet policy is key. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Alaska Airlines’ pet policy for cabin travel, from eligible animals and booking procedures to carrier guidelines and essential travel tips.
Which Pets Are Welcome in the Cabin?
Alaska Airlines has specific guidelines regarding the types of pets allowed to travel in the passenger cabin. Here’s a list of approved animals:
- Small dogs
- House cats
- Domesticated rabbits
- Household birds
Important Note for Hawaii and International Flights: For those dreaming of Hawaiian beaches or international adventures with their pets, please be aware that only dogs and cats are permitted to travel in the cabin on these routes.
If you are traveling with a service animal, Alaska Airlines has a separate service animal policy designed to accommodate your needs. It’s recommended to review their dedicated service animal policy page for detailed information and specific procedures.
Booking Your Pet’s Spot in the Cabin
Planning to bring your pet on board? It’s crucial to make a reservation for your pet in advance. Alaska Airlines allows a limited number of pets in the cabin on each flight, and spots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
To secure your pet’s travel, contact Alaska Airlines reservations as soon as your travel plans are finalized. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-252-7522 or utilize their online chat feature to connect with their reservations team. Remember, pet reservations cannot be made on the day of travel, so early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
Cabin Pet Travel Rules: Ensuring a Safe and Comfortable Flight
Alaska Airlines has established rules to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, including those traveling with pets. Here are the key regulations you need to be aware of:
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Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to travel with a pet in the cabin.
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Seating Restrictions: For safety reasons, passengers traveling with pets are not permitted to sit in emergency exit rows or bulkhead rows.
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Carry-on Allowance: Your pet counts as part of your carry-on baggage allowance. When traveling with a pet, you are allowed either a pet carrier and a personal item, or a pet carrier and a standard-size carry-on bag.
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Cabin Pet Capacity: The number of pet carriers allowed in the cabin is limited. First Class cabins can accommodate a maximum of three pet carriers per flight, while the Main Cabin can accommodate up to eight.
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Maximum Pets Per Person: In the main cabin, you can travel with a maximum of two pet carriers, but this requires purchasing a second ticket for an adjacent seat.
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Pet Types in Main Cabin: Only dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds are allowed in the Main Cabin.
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Age and Weaning of Pets: Dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old to travel. They must also be fully weaned, accustomed to solid food, and have been eating solid food for at least five days without nursing.
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Carrier Confinement: Your pet must remain entirely inside its carrier (head and tail included) with the door/flap securely fastened at all times. This rule applies in the boarding area, during boarding and deplaning, in the Alaska Lounge, and throughout the flight while onboard the aircraft.
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Stowing the Carrier: During taxiing, takeoff, and landing, the pet carrier must be stowed underneath the seat in front of you.
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Multiple Pets in One Carrier: Alaska Airlines allows up to two pets of the same species and similar size to travel in a single carrier, provided they fit comfortably, no body parts protrude, and the animals are not showing signs of distress.
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Pet Behavior: Animals that emit offensive odors or create noise disturbances may be refused cabin travel and may need to travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment instead.
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Hawaii and International Travel Requirements: Remember that additional requirements and documentation are necessary for pets traveling to Hawaii or internationally. It is crucial to check these specific requirements well in advance of your travel date.
Pet Carrier Guidelines for Cabin Travel: Size and Requirements
To ensure your pet’s safety and comfort, Alaska Airlines adheres to specific pet carrier guidelines set by the USDA and IATA. The fundamental rule is that your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably within the carrier and be able to stand and move around to some extent. The carrier must also fit under the seat in front of you.
Here are the acceptable carrier sizes for cabin travel on Alaska Airlines:
Kennel Size Chart for Cabin Travel
| Type | Carrier Size | Dimensions (Length x Width x Height) |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-sided | 50 | 17″ x 11″ x 7.5″ |
| Soft-sided | 50 | 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″ |
To be approved for travel, your pet carrier must also meet the following criteria:
- Dimensional Compliance: It must be within the dimensions listed in the chart above.
- Clean and Leak-proof: The carrier must be clean and leak-proof, with absorbent bedding made of a material that is safe and non-toxic to animals.
- Full Enclosure and Escape-proof: The carrier must fully enclose the animal and be escape-proof to prevent accidental escapes during travel.
- Adequate Ventilation: Proper air ventilation is essential for your pet’s comfort and well-being. The carrier must have adequate ventilation openings.
- Good Condition: The carrier should be free of tears, cracks, or breaks to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of your pet.
Preparing Your Pet for Cabin Travel: Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
Proper preparation is key to making your pet’s cabin travel experience as stress-free as possible. Here are some helpful tips:
- Book Early: Reserve your pet’s travel space well in advance due to limited capacity and the first-come, first-served policy.
- Acclimate to the Carrier: Help your pet get used to the carrier before the travel day. Make it a positive space by placing treats and familiar toys inside and allowing your pet to spend time in it at home.
- Comfortable Fit: Ensure your pet is indeed small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that meets the under-seat dimensions. Your pet should be able to stand and turn around inside the carrier.
- Absorbent Carrier Lining: Line the pet carrier with absorbent material, such as puppy pads or a soft blanket, to manage any potential accidents during travel and keep your pet comfortable.
- Sedation Considerations: While it might be tempting to sedate your pet for travel, it is generally not advised. The effects of tranquilizers on animals at high altitudes can be unpredictable. If you are considering sedation, consult with your veterinarian to make an informed decision based on your pet’s individual needs and health.
By understanding and adhering to Alaska Airlines’ pet policy, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for you and your beloved pet. Remember to prioritize early booking and proper preparation to make your journey smooth sailing!
