Traveling can be an exciting experience, and for many pet owners, bringing their furry, feathered, or scaled companions along is part of the adventure. If you’re wondering “Can Pets Fly On Airlines?”, the answer is yes, but with various policies and restrictions depending on the airline. This guide will break down the pet travel policies of several airlines, focusing on in-cabin and cargo options to help you plan your journey with your beloved pet.
In-Cabin Pet Travel: Keeping Your Pet Close
For many pet owners, the preferred option is to keep their pets in the cabin during the flight. This allows you to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the journey. Here’s a look at the in-cabin pet policies of a few airlines:
Hawaiian Airlines In-Cabin Pet Policy
Hawaiian Airlines welcomes small dogs, cats, and household birds in the cabin on most flights. For a fee, you can bring your pet onboard, provided you meet certain requirements. Each passenger is limited to one pet carrier, which can accommodate one adult dog or cat. However, if you have puppies or kittens of the same breed or litter, you can bring up to two, as long as they are between eight weeks and six months old.
When traveling between Hawaii and North America, ensure you obtain an animal health certificate from your veterinarian within 14 days of travel. Depending on your route, a permit from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture might also be necessary. Always check the latest regulations before your flight.
Spirit Airlines In-Cabin Pet Policy
Spirit Airlines also allows pets in the cabin for a one-way pet fee. Their policy extends to dogs, cats, household birds, and small domestic rabbits, provided they are at least eight weeks old. It’s important to note that pets are not permitted on international Spirit Airlines flights. Furthermore, birds and rabbits are not allowed to fly to or from Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands.
For those flying with dogs or cats to the US Virgin Islands, a health certificate from a veterinarian is required. If your destination is Puerto Rico, ensure your pet has a rabies vaccination certificate. Spirit Airlines permits a maximum of two pets per carrier, but each passenger is still limited to one carrier. Your pet must be comfortable standing and moving around inside the carrier, which must remain closed throughout the flight and fit under the seat in front of you. When flying with a pet, seating is restricted; you cannot sit in the first row or emergency exit rows. Spirit Airlines limits the total number of pet carriers to six per flight, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Frontier Airlines In-Cabin Pet Policy
Frontier Airlines is another option for in-cabin pet travel, allowing dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and household birds on flights within the US. Like other airlines, dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old. A pet fee applies for each way of travel.
Similar to Spirit, passengers with pets on Frontier cannot be seated in emergency exit rows or the first row. Pets must stay in their carriers, which must fit under the seat. Frontier advises against giving pets food or water within four hours before departure and during the flight. It’s crucial that your pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside their carrier.
Pet Travel as Checked Baggage (Cargo)
While in-cabin travel is often preferred, some airlines offer the option of transporting pets as checked baggage, often referred to as cargo.
Hawaiian Airlines Cargo Pet Policy
Hawaiian Airlines does accept dogs, cats, and household birds as checked baggage on certain routes. There is a one-way fee for this service, which varies depending on whether you are flying within Hawaii or between Hawaii and North America. However, it’s crucial to be aware of restrictions. Pets are not accepted as checked baggage to or from specific airports, including Pago Pago International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Salt Lake City International Airport. Additionally, seasonal restrictions apply for flights to or from San Jose, Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Phoenix during the hotter months (April 15 to October 15).
Hawaiian Airlines does not impose breed restrictions but strongly advises against transporting brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds as checked baggage due to potential respiratory issues. Similar to in-cabin travel, there are kennel requirements: one adult pet per kennel, or up to two young puppies or kittens. For birds, two adult birds can travel together. The total weight of the kennel with the pet inside cannot exceed 70 pounds. Temperature restrictions also apply for cargo pet travel with Hawaiian Airlines, ensuring pet safety during transit.
Spirit and Frontier Airlines Cargo Policy
It’s important to note that Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines do not transport pets as checked baggage. If you are considering these airlines, in-cabin travel is your only option for bringing your pet along.
Key Considerations for Airline Pet Travel
Regardless of the airline or whether your pet travels in the cabin or as cargo, there are several key factors to keep in mind:
- Breed Restrictions: While some airlines may not have explicit breed bans, certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic breeds, are more susceptible to breathing difficulties at high altitudes and during air travel. Consider the risks and consult your veterinarian.
- Health Certificates and Vaccinations: Airlines often require health certificates and proof of vaccinations, especially for travel across state or international borders. Ensure you have all necessary documentation well in advance of your travel date.
- Carrier Requirements: Airlines have specific size and ventilation requirements for pet carriers. Make sure your carrier complies with the airline’s guidelines and is comfortable and safe for your pet.
- Fees and Costs: Pet travel fees can vary significantly between airlines and depend on whether your pet is in-cabin or cargo. Factor these costs into your travel budget.
- Advance Booking: Especially for in-cabin pet travel, airlines often have limits on the number of pets allowed per flight. Book your pet’s travel in advance to secure their spot.
Conclusion
Flying with pets requires careful planning and understanding of airline-specific policies. While “can pets fly on airlines?” is a simple question, the answer involves navigating various regulations, fees, and restrictions. By researching and preparing properly, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable travel experience for both you and your animal companion. Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and consult directly with the airline for the most up-to-date and detailed information before your trip.
