Traveling with your beloved pet can be an exciting adventure, but ensuring their safety and comfort during air travel is paramount. A key aspect of this is understanding airline-approved pet carrier sizes. Navigating the varying pet policies of different airlines can be confusing, especially when it comes to carry-on pet carriers. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of airline-approved pet carrier sizes, helping you choose the perfect carrier for stress-free travel with your furry, feathered, or scaled companion.
Understanding Airline Pet Carrier Size Restrictions
Airlines impose size restrictions on pet carriers to ensure they fit safely under the seat in front of you or in designated in-cabin pet spaces. These regulations prioritize the safety and comfort of all passengers, including your pet. While specific dimensions vary slightly between airlines, the general principle remains consistent: the pet carrier must be small enough to fit comfortably under the airplane seat.
The primary reason for this size limitation is under-seat storage. Airline seats are designed with limited space underneath, and pet carriers must be able to slide in without obstructing aisles or other passengers. Additionally, keeping the carrier under the seat during the flight is a safety measure, preventing the carrier from becoming a projectile in case of turbulence.
It’s crucial to remember that “airline-approved” doesn’t refer to a universal certification. Instead, it means the pet carrier adheres to the specific size and construction guidelines set by each individual airline. Therefore, always verify the most up-to-date pet carrier size requirements directly with the airline you are flying with before your travel date.
Pet Carrier Size Guidelines by Major US Airlines
While general guidelines exist, specific dimensions for airline-approved pet carriers differ between airlines. Here’s a breakdown of the carry-on pet carrier size policies for major US airlines, based on the information available from the original article and further research to ensure the most current data. Note that it is always recommended to double-check directly with the airline before flying as policies can change.
American Airlines Pet Carrier Size
American Airlines allows carry-on pets in approved hard-sided or soft-sided carriers.
- Soft-sided carrier: Maximum dimensions of 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm).
- Hard-sided carrier: While soft-sided carriers are generally preferred for under-seat storage flexibility, if using a hard-sided carrier, it should ideally fit within similar dimensions, not exceeding 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high (48 cm x 33 cm x 23 cm) to ensure under-seat fit on most aircraft. However, soft-sided carriers are generally recommended for carry-on pets.
Alt: American Airlines emotional support animal document packet form showing airline’s logo, text in English, and form fields.
Important Notes for American Airlines:
- A carry-on pet counts as your one personal item.
- A fee of $125 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to 7 carriers per flight (American Airlines) and 5 carriers (American Eagle flights) on a first-come, first-served basis.
Delta Airlines Pet Carrier Size
Delta Airlines permits small dogs, cats, and household birds as carry-on pets, provided they are in an airline-approved carrier.
- Maximum Dimensions: Delta doesn’t specify exact dimensions but states the carrier “must fit under the seat directly in front of you.” Generally, carriers around 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm) soft-sided, or slightly smaller hard-sided, are likely to comply. Delta recommends soft-sided carriers for better under-seat flexibility.
Alt: Delta Airlines emotional support animal forms PDF document cover page with Delta logo, document title, and form details.
Important Notes for Delta Airlines:
- The pet carrier counts as your one carry-on item.
- A fee of $125 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to 6 pet carriers per flight (2 in First Class, 4 in Main Cabin).
Southwest Airlines Pet Carrier Size
Southwest Airlines has specific guidelines for carry-on pet carriers and even offers their own Southwest-branded carrier for purchase.
- Maximum Dimensions: 18.5 inches long x 13.5 inches wide x 8.5 inches high (47 cm x 34 cm x 22 cm). Southwest also sells an airline-approved carrier with dimensions of 17 inches long x 9.5 inches wide x 10 inches high (43 cm x 24 cm x 25 cm).
Alt: Southwest Airlines emotional support animal travel instructions PDF document cover page with Southwest logo and document title.
Important Notes for Southwest Airlines:
- A fee of $95 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to 6 pet carriers per flight on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Southwest does not transport pets as cargo.
United Airlines Pet Carrier Size
United Airlines allows domesticated cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds (excluding cockatoos) as carry-on pets.
- Maximum Dimensions: United requires the carrier to fit completely under the seat in front of you. While they don’t provide exact dimensions, carriers around 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm) soft-sided, or slightly smaller hard-sided, are generally suitable. Soft-sided carriers are recommended for flexibility.
Alt: United Airlines support animal form webpage with United logo, form title, and sections for animal and passenger information.
Important Notes for United Airlines:
- A fee of $125 applies per carrier, each way, plus an additional $125 for stopovers exceeding 4 hours.
- Limited to 4 pets in the main cabin and 2 in premium cabins per flight (with some exceptions).
JetBlue Pet Carrier Size
JetBlue is known for its pet-friendly approach, including the “JetPaws” program.
- Maximum Dimensions: 17 inches long x 12.5 inches wide x 8.5 inches high (43 cm x 32 cm x 22 cm). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
Alt: JetBlue service animal information webpage with JetBlue logo, page title, and sections about service animal policies and required documentation.
Important Notes for JetBlue:
- A fee of $125 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to one pet per person and 4 pets per flight.
- Pets count as a carry-on item.
Alaska Airlines Pet Carrier Size
Alaska Airlines offers “Fur-st Class Care” and allows various pets in the cabin.
- Soft-sided carrier Maximum Dimensions: 17 inches long x 11 inches wide x 9.5 inches high (43 cm x 28 cm x 24 cm).
- Hard-sided carrier Maximum Dimensions: 17 inches long x 11 inches wide x 7.5 inches high (43 cm x 28 cm x 19 cm).
Alt: Alaska Airlines animal mental health form PDF cover page with Alaska Airlines logo, document title, and form details for passengers traveling with emotional support animals.
Important Notes for Alaska Airlines:
- A fee of $100 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to 1 pet carrier in First Class and 5 in the Main Cabin per flight.
Spirit Airlines Pet Carrier Size
Spirit Airlines has a weight limit in addition to size restrictions for carry-on pet carriers.
- Maximum Dimensions: 18 inches long x 14 inches wide x 9 inches high (46 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm).
- Maximum Combined Weight (Pet + Carrier): 40 pounds (18 kg).
Alt: Spirit Airlines customer support article webpage about bringing service and emotional support animals onboard, with Spirit Airlines logo and article title.
Important Notes for Spirit Airlines:
- A fee of $110 applies per carrier, each way.
- Limited to 6 pet carriers per cabin.
Frontier Airlines Pet Carrier Size
Frontier Airlines is another budget carrier with specific pet policies.
- Maximum Dimensions: 18 inches long x 14 inches wide x 8 inches high (46 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm).
Alt: Frontier Airlines webpage about special services for pets, with Frontier Airlines logo, page title, and information sections.
Important Notes for Frontier Airlines:
- A fee of $75 applies per carrier, each way.
Allegiant Air Pet Carrier Size
Allegiant Air has slightly larger carrier size allowances compared to some other airlines.
- Maximum Dimensions: 19 inches long x 16 inches wide x 9 inches high (48 cm x 41 cm x 23 cm).
Alt: Allegiant Air emotional support animal forms PDF document cover page with Allegiant Air logo, document title, and form details.
Important Notes for Allegiant Air:
- A fee of $100 applies per carrier, per leg of the trip.
Choosing the Right Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
Selecting the correct pet carrier involves more than just size. Consider these factors to ensure your pet’s comfort and compliance with airline regulations:
- Measure Your Pet: Your pet should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. Measure your pet while standing, from nose to tail base and from the top of their head (or ears, whichever is taller) to the ground. Add a few inches to these measurements to determine the minimum internal carrier dimensions.
- Carrier Type: Soft-sided carriers are generally more versatile for fitting under airplane seats as they can compress slightly. Hard-sided carriers offer more protection but might be less forgiving if slightly oversized.
- Ventilation and Comfort: Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation on multiple sides. Choose a carrier with a comfortable, absorbent lining.
- Durability and Security: Opt for a sturdy carrier made from durable materials with secure closures to prevent escapes.
- Airline Approval: Prioritize carriers marketed as “airline-approved,” but always double-check the specific dimensions against your chosen airline’s requirements.
- Practice at Home: Before your trip, get your pet accustomed to the carrier. Encourage them to enter and relax inside with treats and positive reinforcement.
Tips for Stress-Free Airline Travel with Your Pet
- Book in Advance: Airline space for pets is limited, so book your pet’s spot well in advance.
- Health Certificate: Ensure you have the necessary health certificates and vaccination records required by the airline and your destination.
- Direct Flights: Whenever possible, choose direct flights to minimize travel time and stress for your pet.
- Proper Identification: Attach secure ID tags to your pet’s collar and carrier with your contact information.
- Familiar Items: Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier to comfort your pet.
- Hydration and Potty Breaks: Give your pet water before the flight (in moderation to avoid accidents) and ensure they have a potty break before check-in.
- TSA Guidelines: Be prepared to remove your pet from the carrier during TSA screening. Have a leash ready for dogs and cats.
- Inform Airline Staff: Notify airline staff at check-in and boarding that you are traveling with a pet.
Conclusion
Understanding airline-approved pet carrier sizes is essential for smooth and safe air travel with your pet. By carefully considering the size restrictions of your chosen airline, selecting an appropriate carrier, and preparing your pet for the journey, you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for both of you. Always verify the most current pet policies directly with the airline before your flight, as regulations are subject to change. Happy travels!
