Small dogs and cats fly in the cabin under the seat on every major US airline for $95–$150 each way. ESAs no longer fly free since 2021 — only fully trained service dogs do.
Flying with your pet has gotten both easier (more in-cabin options) and harder (ESA rules tightened) since 2021. Here's where things stand in 2026.
In-Cabin Pet Travel (Domestic US)
Small dogs and cats can fly in the cabin under the seat on most major US airlines for a fee of $95–$150 each way. Requirements:
- Pet + carrier must fit under the seat in front of you (typically 18×11×11 in. soft-sided)
- Pet counts as your personal item or carry-on — you'll have less space yourself
- Limited number of pets per flight; book early
Airlines That Allow In-Cabin Pets
- Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, Hawaiian, Allegiant
Cargo / Checked Pet Travel
For larger dogs, most US airlines have dramatically reduced or ended cargo pet service. Currently the major options:
- Alaska Airlines Pet Connect — checked pet program with strong reputation
- American PetEmbark — for active military and corporate customers
- Pet shipping companies (IPATA members) handle door-to-door commercial transport
Heat embargoes (typically May–September) restrict cargo pet travel to/from many southern airports.
Emotional Support Animals (Important Update)
Since 2021, the US DOT no longer requires airlines to accept emotional support animals. Every major US airline now treats ESAs as regular pets — meaning the same fees and rules apply. Only fully trained service dogs (under ADA + DOT definitions) still fly free in the cabin.
Service Dogs
- Must be trained to perform a specific task related to a disability
- Must complete the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (one for each carrier)
- Travel free, in cabin, at owner's feet
- Maximum two service dogs per passenger
International Pet Travel
This is where things get complex. Each destination country has its own rules — rabies titers, microchips, USDA endorsements, quarantine. For international pet travel:
- Start the paperwork process 3–6 months before travel
- Work with a USDA-accredited veterinarian
- For Hawaii (5-day or direct release), start at least 4 months ahead
- Hire a pet relocation specialist for difficult destinations (UK, Australia, NZ, Japan)
Need help booking a pet-friendly itinerary? Call our agents — we'll confirm in-cabin availability and pet fees before ticketing.