Traveling with your furry, feathered, or scaled companion can be an exciting part of your journey. If you’re considering flying with Delta Air Lines and wondering “Can Small Pets Fly On Delta?”, you’re in the right place. Delta offers various options for pet travel, but understanding the specifics is crucial for a smooth experience. This guide will walk you through Delta’s pet policies, focusing on how small pets can travel, whether in the cabin or as checked baggage.
Navigating airline pet policies can be complex, but Delta aims to accommodate pet owners whenever possible. However, it’s essential to know that not all pets are permitted in the cabin, and restrictions apply based on breed, size, and destination. Let’s delve into the details of flying with your small pet on Delta.
Options for Small Pet Travel on Delta
Delta Air Lines primarily offers two ways for pets to travel: in-cabin and as checked baggage under the “Pets in Hold (AVIH)” program. For pets that don’t qualify for these options, Delta Cargo provides a freight service.
In-Cabin Pet Travel: Comfort at Your Side
For many small pet owners, keeping their companions in the cabin is the preferred option. Delta allows certain small dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the cabin on select flights within the United States, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Canada, as well as some international destinations.
Key requirements for in-cabin pet travel:
- Pet Types: Primarily small dogs, cats, and household birds.
- Carrier Size: Pets must fit comfortably in a ventilated pet carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The maximum carrier dimensions are typically around 18 x 11 x 11 inches, but it’s always best to confirm with Delta directly as dimensions can slightly vary by aircraft.
- Health and Age: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned. They must also be healthy, harmless, odorless, and require no attention during the flight.
- Fees: A carry-on pet fee applies, which varies depending on the destination. As of recent updates, fees range around $125 – $200 USD each way within the U.S. and internationally, but always check the current fee at the time of booking.
- Breed Restrictions: Snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds of cats and dogs may have restrictions or be prohibited due to potential respiratory issues at higher altitudes. Always confirm breed restrictions with Delta.
Image: A small dog comfortably peeks out from its airline-approved carrier, symbolizing the readiness for in-cabin travel on Delta.
Pets in Hold (AVIH): For Military and Service Animals Primarily
Delta’s “Pets in Hold (AVIH)” program is primarily designed for active U.S. military personnel, U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO), and their spouses with active transfer orders. It’s also available for trained service or support animals unable to travel in the cabin.
Important points about AVIH:
- Eligibility: Primarily for military/FSO personnel and specific service/support animals. For other pets, Delta Cargo is usually the alternative.
- Accepted Animals: Cats (excluding snub-nosed breeds), dogs (excluding pug or snub-nosed breeds), household birds (domestic U.S. only), guinea pigs (domestic U.S. only), rabbits (domestic U.S. only), hamsters (domestic U.S. only), and marmots (domestic U.S. only). Refer to Delta Cargo’s website for a detailed list of restricted breeds.
- Kennel Requirements: Pets must be transported in airline-approved kennels. Giant-sized kennels might need to be shipped as cargo.
- Booking in Advance: Military personnel and FSOs need to book pets as checked baggage at least 48 hours before departure.
- Fees: Fees are charged each time the pet is checked in and at each stopover point. Within the U.S., or between the U.S. /Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico, the fee is around $200 USD. For international destinations, it’s approximately $200 USD/CAD/EUR*. Fees can vary and are subject to change, so always confirm the current rates with Delta.
Image: A well-prepared dog in a sturdy kennel, illustrating the Pets in Hold (AVIH) travel method, ensuring pet safety and compliance with Delta’s regulations.
Connecting Flights and AVIH:
- Delta typically does not accept animals on itineraries with more than one connection under the AVIH program.
- For connecting flights, especially with other airlines (excluding SkyTeam partners), you will likely need to collect your pet and re-check them. Allow at least 45 minutes extra connection time for pet transfers.
Delta Cargo: Shipping Pets as Freight
If your pet does not meet the requirements for in-cabin travel or AVIH, or if you are traveling with animals not listed under AVIH (like reptiles or primates), Delta Cargo is the solution. This service ships pets as freight and may have different regulations and requirements.
Key considerations for Delta Cargo:
- Broader Acceptance: Delta Cargo accepts a wider range of animals that are not permitted in the cabin or as checked baggage.
- Separate Booking: Booking is done directly through Delta Cargo, separate from your passenger flight booking.
- Drop-off and Pick-up: You will typically drop off your pet at a Delta Cargo facility and pick them up at the cargo facility at your destination.
- Regulations and Documentation: Delta Cargo has specific requirements for kennels, health certificates, and documentation, which may vary based on the type of animal and destination.
Important Considerations for Flying Small Pets on Delta
- Breed Restrictions: Delta, like many airlines, has restrictions on snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds due to their increased risk of breathing problems at altitude. Check the lists of restricted dog and cat breeds on Delta Cargo’s website to ensure your pet is permitted to fly.
- Health Certificates and Documentation: Depending on your destination, you may need a health certificate from a veterinarian issued within a specific timeframe before travel. International travel often has strict requirements, so research the regulations of your destination country well in advance.
- Seasonal Embargoes: Delta may have seasonal embargoes on pet travel to certain destinations due to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold). Check for embargoes, especially during summer and winter months.
- Direct Flights Preferred: For pet safety and comfort, especially when pets travel as checked baggage or cargo, direct flights are always preferable to minimize stress and handling.
Conclusion: Planning Your Pet’s Delta Flight
So, can small pets fly on Delta? Yes, but with specific conditions and options. For small dogs, cats, and birds, in-cabin travel is possible if they meet size and carrier requirements and you pay the applicable fee. Delta’s AVIH program is primarily for military personnel, FSOs, and service/support animals, while Delta Cargo is available for a broader range of animals and situations.
When planning to fly with your small pet on Delta, it’s crucial to:
- Check Delta’s official pet policy on their website for the most up-to-date information and any changes.
- Contact Delta Reservations directly to confirm specific requirements, fees, and to book your pet’s travel in advance.
- Ensure you have all necessary health documents and meet the destination’s entry requirements for animals.
- Use an airline-approved carrier that is the right size and well-ventilated for your pet’s comfort and safety.
By carefully planning and understanding Delta’s policies, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable journey for your small pet. Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and be prepared for all aspects of pet travel.
