Moving with your pet during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be a significant part of your relocation planning. If you’re traveling via AMC Patriot Express flights, understanding the specific guidelines and procedures for Pet Travel is crucial. This guide provides essential information to help you navigate pet transportation on AMC flights, ensuring a smoother journey for both you and your furry companion.
Who Can Travel with Pets on AMC Patriot Express?
Pet transportation on AMC Patriot Express flights is exclusively for passengers traveling under PCS status. This service is designed to assist military personnel and their families during official relocation. It’s important to note that pet travel is not available for leisure or other types of travel on these flights.
Booking Your Pet’s Spot: Reservations and Availability
Space for pets on AMC Patriot Express flights is limited. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so early booking is highly recommended. To secure a spot for your pet, contact your local Traffic Management Office (TMO) or Installation Transportation Office (ITO) as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. While you don’t need your official orders at the time of booking, initiating the process early increases your chances of securing pet travel. Each family is generally limited to two pets per PCS move. Remember, pets must be accompanied by their owner and all transportation expenses are the owner’s responsibility.
This image depicts a military family at an airport with their dog, luggage, and a pet carrier, symbolizing the common scenario of PCS pet travel.
Essential Documents for Pet Travel on AMC
Traveling with your pet on AMC flights requires specific documentation to ensure compliance and the safety of your animal. Familiarize yourself with these key documents:
AMC Pet Pamphlet
The AMC Pet Pamphlet is your primary resource for detailed information regarding pet travel on Patriot Express flights. It’s regularly updated, so always check for the most current version, like the one dated July 12, 2024. This pamphlet covers a wide range of topics, from booking procedures to kennel requirements and health considerations.
Risk Acknowledgement Document (RAD)
The AMC Pet – Risk Acknowledgement Document (RAD) (updated July 29, 2024) is a crucial form you must print, read, and sign. It highlights the inherent risks associated with air travel for pets, particularly for brachycephalic breeds (short-nosed dogs and cats) that are more susceptible to respiratory issues in air travel. You’ll need to present the signed RAD to the Passenger Service Agent during check-in.
Pet Dogs and Extreme Heat Information
It’s vital to be aware of the dangers of extreme heat for your pets, especially during travel. Review the information provided on Pet Dogs and Extreme Heat Info to understand how to protect your pet’s health and well-being, especially during warmer months or in hotter climates.
Statement of Assurance for Service Animals
If you are traveling with a service animal, you must provide a Statement of Assurance for Service Animals. This document needs to be submitted to the departing DoD passenger terminal no later than 48 hours before your flight.
Pet Check-In Procedures
Check-in times for AMC flights differ depending on the airport. For Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), check-in is no later than 2 hours and 20 minutes before departure. For Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), it’s 3 hours and 20 minutes prior. Always confirm the specific check-in time with your local transportation office or AMC Passenger Terminal.
While passengers can check in up to 6 hours early, pet owners may need to retain custody of their pets until 45 minutes before boarding due to limited pet storage. Ensure your pet remains in its kennel while in public terminal areas.
This image shows a dog comfortably inside a travel kennel at an airport, highlighting the importance of secure and airline-approved pet carriers for safe pet travel.
Navigating Pet Immigration Requirements
Pet immigration regulations vary significantly by country. It’s your responsibility to understand and comply with the specific rules of your destination country, including potential quarantine periods. Your local TMO/ITO is your best resource for detailed immigration requirements.
The Personal Property Consignment Instruction Guide also provides information under “6. Pets/Quarantine” for various countries, which can be a helpful starting point.
If your travel involves connecting flights with commercial airlines before or after your AMC Patriot Express flight, contact those airlines directly to confirm their pet policies, documentation, and any additional charges.
Understanding Pet Travel Fees
Be prepared for pet travel fees on AMC flights. Fees are assessed per kennel and per mission, based on the combined weight of the pet and kennel. As of the latest information:
- ≤70 lbs (combined weight): $125 (equivalent to one piece of excess baggage)
- 71-140 lbs (combined weight): $250 (equivalent to two pieces of excess baggage)
- 141-150 lbs (combined weight): $375 (equivalent to three pieces of excess baggage)
Pets and kennels weighing over 150 lbs are not accepted for transport. Fees are subject to change, so always verify current costs with your TMO/ITO.
New Reimbursement Policy for Pet Travel Fees (2024)
A significant update for 2024 is the new reimbursement entitlement for pet travel fees during a PCS move. Service members can now seek reimbursement for expenses related to transporting one dog or cat during a PCS. The reimbursement is capped at $2,000 for overseas moves and $550 for moves within the United States. When traveling on AMC Patriot Express, ensure you receive a memo receipt for your pet travel fees during check-in, as this will be required for your PCS voucher process. Refer to the Joint Travel Regulations, Chapter 5, Part A, Paragraph 050107 for complete guidance on pet expense reimbursement.
Special Guidelines for Service Animals
Service animals are subject to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Handlers must provide a signed Statement of Assurance to the departing DoD passenger terminal at least 48 hours before departure.
Key points for service animal travel:
- A passenger may travel with a maximum of two service animals (dogs only).
- The service animal must fit on the handler’s lap or within their foot space on the aircraft.
- Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times within the terminal and on the aircraft.
- Handlers are responsible for controlling their service animals, including preventing them from relieving themselves in terminals or on aircraft.
- In certain situations, handlers might be required to pay a pet fee or be liable for damages caused by a service animal that does not adhere to travel requirements.
Traveling with your pet on AMC Patriot Express requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. By understanding these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, you can help ensure a safe and stress-free journey for your beloved pet during your PCS move. Always consult with your local TMO/ITO for the most up-to-date information and personalized assistance.
