You can trust the airline to handle your pet with gentleness. Can you expect a comfortable flight for you and your pet? Many people wonder about these issues when bringing a pet along on a flight. Luckily, certain airlines excel at ensuring a pleasant and secure trip for pets and their owners. These are the five airlines that stand out for pet-friendly travel — with Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines setting the standard.
There are numerous obstacles when traveling with pets by plane. Guidelines can be stringent, charges may be hefty and you’re also concerned about your furry friend’s well-being. Airlines that welcome pets are aware of this relationship and provide easily accessible information, fair prices and helpful services. Giving you reassurance your beloved friend is secure the whole flight.
Emotional support animals can no longer ride for free after a 2020 ruling by the U.S. Department of Transportation. These days, each pet is charged a fee and airline standards are more restrictive. The top airlines find ways to meet safety standards while remaining empathetic.
1. Alaska Airlines: The Gold Standard for Pet Owners
Alaska Airlines consistently ranks among the most pet-friendly airlines in the industry. Alaska Airlines shows its dedication to the comfort and well-being of animals by offering the Fur-st Class Care™ program. The $100 fee Alaska Airlines charges for pets to fly in the cabin compares favorably to what other airlines typically charge. Customers are allowed to board with their pet’s carrying case.
Alaska Airlines stands out with its flexible policies regarding pets. Large pets can fly in their cargo hold with temperature control but pugs and other short-nosed breeds aren’t permitted. Customers consistently rate their service highly based on reviews found on BringFido.
2. Southwest Airlines: Affordable and Straightforward
Southwest Airlines is an excellent option for pet owners who want to get the best value for their airfare. Traveling with a pet is simple and convenient with Southwest Airlines. Most dog owners prefer to have their dogs accompanying them during the flight as it makes the trip much easier on both the dog and the owner. You can often get away with just a single carrier for two pets if they are the same species. You can get a refund for the pet cost if you cancel your flight more than 24 hours in advance of the planned departure.
Southwest distinguishes itself from other airlines by letting family pets travel in the aircraft provided they can be contained in an approved crate at the owner’s feet. Your pet needs to be able to ride quietly in a carrier under the seat. Many people share stories about flight attendants giving their furry friends extra treats during the flight. One downside? No matter your destination, make sure your pet doesn’t tag along.
3. Delta Air Lines: Complete and Reliable
Many customers choose Delta for their pet travel program because of its excellent selection of options. Smaller pets are allowed in the cabin while larger animals can fly in Delta Cargo’s temperature-controlled facility. The Pet First program guarantees expert handling and allows you to monitor your pet’s flight progress.
Traveling with pets can be quite economical on Southwest Airlines. They make it easy to travel with your pet along. They prefer to have their pets with them in the cabin to make the trip as smooth as possible. It’s possible to take two pets in the same species on the same flight if they both fit in one carrier. You will get a refund on the pet charge if you cancel your flight at least 24 hours prior to the departure time.
4. American Airlines: Service Animal Champions
American Airlines stands out for travelers with service animals by having straightforward rules and waiving costs for legitimate assistance animals. Small pets are allowed in the passenger cabin for a $125 fee while larger animals are transported using PetEmbark, which serves armed forces members and State Department employees.
5. JetBlue Airways: Small Pets, Big Comfort
For a $125 charge, JetBlue’s pet transport program lets you bring your pet on board your aircraft. Although cargo transportation is not offered, they give in-cabin travel first priority as they provide TrueBlue points for your animal buddy and a pet travel guide.
Since jet blue allows only six dogs on each trip, book ahead. For most animals, their pet zones and friendly service guarantee contentment; some larger animals may need another carrier. For short excursions within the United States, jet blue is a great option.
Small gestures like a wagging tail and a meow are what makes a trip rewarding. Some airlines, such as Alaska Airlines and Southwest, recognize this by including comfort-based measures into their policies. But no airline is perfect. Paying attention to restrictions, breed limits and fees can help ensure our travel goes smoothly.
