Planning a trip with your furry best friend requires understanding the latest american airlines pet policy. Whether you are taking a quick domestic flight or planning an international adventure, knowing the specific rules for in-cabin pets, cargo options, and carrier dimensions is essential for a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flying with your cat or dog, including fees, restrictions, and required documentation for both domestic and international travelers.
In-Cabin Pet Allowance
American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with you on most flights up to 12 hours. The american airlines dog in cabin policy states that your pet must remain inside their approved carrier at all times during the flight. You must keep the carrier safely stowed under the seat in front of you.
When you fly with a pet in the cabin, you will need to pay the pet fee. In addition, recent policy changes allow you to bring your pet carrier along with one other item. You can choose to bring either a personal item like a purse or a standard carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin. You cannot bring a personal item, a carry-on bag, and a pet carrier all together. For details on regular luggage rules, review the American Airlines cabin baggage allowance.
Number of Pets Allowed
- You can bring one pet carrier per passenger.
- You can place up to two pets of the same species (two cats or two dogs) in a single carrier if they are between 8 weeks and 6 months old.
- The two pets must be of similar size.
- The combined weight of both pets and the carrier must remain under the maximum weight limit.
- If your pet is older than 6 months, you are strictly limited to one pet per carrier.
American Airlines Pet Carrier Requirements
Choosing the right travel kennel is one of the most critical steps when american airlines flying with pets. The airline strictly enforces size limits to ensure the carrier fits under the seat without blocking the aisle or your foot space.
Size Dimensions and Weight Limits
The maximum weight limit for your pet and the carrier combined is 20 lbs (9.07 kg). At the check-in counter, agents will weigh your carrier with your pet inside to confirm compliance.
Your carrier dimensions depend on the type of aircraft and the type of carrier you choose. American Airlines recommends soft-sided collapsible kennels because they offer more flexibility to fit under various seat configurations.
Soft-Sided Carrier Maximum Dimensions:
- Length: 18 inches (46 cm)
- Width: 11 inches (28 cm)
- Height: 11 inches (28 cm)
Hard-Sided Carrier Maximum Dimensions (Mainline Flights):
- Length: 19 inches (48 cm)
- Width: 13 inches (33 cm)
- Height: 9 inches (22 cm)
Hard-Sided Carrier Maximum Dimensions (American Eagle Regional Flights):
- Length: 16 inches (40 cm)
- Width: 12 inches (30 cm)
- Height: 8 inches (20 cm)
Construction Rules for In-Cabin Carriers
To meet the american airlines pet carrier requirements, your kennel must follow specific construction guidelines.
- The carrier must be secure and escape-proof.
- It must feature ventilation mesh on at least three sides.
- The material must be water-repellent to prevent any accidents from leaking onto the aircraft floor.
- It must include padding for your pet’s comfort.
- Your pet must have enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position while inside the fully zipped carrier.
American Airlines Pet Fees
Understanding the costs associated with flying your pet helps you budget your travel expenses accurately. American Airlines requires you to pay pet fees at the airport counter, as they do not process pet fee payments online.
| Travel Type | Region Covered | Fee Per Kennel |
| Carry-On Pet (In-Cabin) | US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Caribbean | $150 |
| Military/State Dept Checked Pet | US, Canada, Mexico, Central/South America, Europe | $200 (or $150 to/from Brazil) |
| Cargo Pet (PPS) | Varies by destination and kennel size | Varies (Quoted at booking) |
| Service Animals | All destinations | $0 (Free) |
If you are checking regular luggage in addition to your pet carrier, you will need to pay standard baggage fees. You can find more information about these costs in our American Airlines checked baggage fees guide.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Your pet must be healthy and up to date on all necessary vaccines to fly. American Airlines requires specific documentation to verify your pet’s health status before they can board the aircraft.
You must visit a USDA-registered veterinarian to obtain a health certificate. This document proves that your pet is medically fit for air travel. The health certificate must be issued within 10 days of your outbound travel date. For your return flight, the certificate remains valid for 60 days if you are traveling on the same ticket. If you booked separate tickets for your return, you need a new certificate issued within 10 days of that return flight.
Your vet must also provide a Rabies Vaccination Certificate. This document confirms your dog or cat has received a current rabies shot. Some destinations also require proof of vaccines for Canine parvovirus, Distemper, and Canine hepatitis.
Breed Restrictions
American Airlines prioritizes animal safety and strictly prohibits certain breeds from flying due to respiratory concerns. Snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds cannot fly in the cabin or in cargo under any circumstances. These breeds have a higher risk of breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
Prohibited Dog Breeds Include:
- French Bulldogs
- Boston Terriers
- Pugs
- Shih Tzus
- Boxers
- English Toy Spaniels
The airline also enforces a strict ban on all pit bull breeds for safety reasons.
Prohibited Pit Bull Breeds Include:
- American Pit Bull Terriers
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- American Bullies
If you own a restricted breed, you will need to seek alternative ground transportation options for your pet.
Temperature Embargoes
Extreme weather poses a severe risk to animals traveling in the cargo hold. Because of this, American Airlines enforces strict temperature restrictions for pets traveling via American Airlines Cargo or as checked pets for military personnel.
Your pet cannot fly if the current or forecasted temperature at any location on your itinerary exceeds 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius). Similarly, the airline prohibits pet travel if the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius).
You can bypass the cold weather restriction if you obtain an Acclimation Certificate from your veterinarian. This letter must state the specific lowest temperature your pet can safely withstand. Even with this letter, American Airlines will absolutely not allow pets to fly if the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius).
Flying Your Pet via American Airlines Cargo
If your pet weighs more than 20 lbs (9.07 kg) or is too large to fit in a standard under-seat carrier, they cannot fly in the cabin. Non-military travelers must use American Airlines Cargo, also known as Priority Parcel Service (PPS), to transport large pets.
You must book cargo transport well in advance by calling the American Airlines Cargo customer service center. When flying a pet via cargo, you cannot drop them off at the regular passenger terminal. You must take your pet to the specific American Airlines Cargo facility at your departure airport. You should arrive between 4 and 6 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time.
Cargo kennels must be constructed of rigid plastic, metal, or wood. Snap-closure kennels are only permitted if you secure them with metal nuts and bolts. The kennel door must be made of solid metal grating, and all wheels must be removed or rendered completely inoperable. You must also attach two clean, empty dishes for food and water to the inside of the door, and tape a clear one-gallon bag of food to the top of the crate.
Military and State Department Checked Pets
American Airlines no longer accepts checked pets for regular passengers. However, the airline makes an exclusive exception for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department personnel traveling on official Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or Temporary Duty (TDY) orders.
If you qualify for this exemption, you can check your pet at the regular ticket counter. You must contact reservations at least 48 hours before your flight to notify them of your checked pet. When you arrive at the airport, you must present your official orders and your military identification. Active military members also receive a 50 percent discount on cargo rates if they choose to transport their pets via the cargo service instead.
Service Animal Policy
American Airlines welcomes fully trained service dogs in the cabin at no additional charge. A service animal is defined as a dog specifically trained to perform tasks for an individual with a disability, including visual impairments, hearing impairments, mobility impairments, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The airline no longer accepts emotional support animals (ESAs) as service animals. ESAs must fly as regular pets and are subject to standard pet fees and carrier rules.
You must submit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form before your flight. This form requires you to attest to your dog’s health, training, and behavior. If you book your ticket more than 48 hours in advance, you must submit this form at least 48 hours before departure. If you book last minute, you can present the completed form to the gate agent on the day of travel.
Your service dog must fit comfortably at your feet, under your seat, or on your lap if they are small enough. They must remain harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times. They cannot block the aisle or occupy a seat. You are allowed to bring a maximum of two service animals per passenger.
International Pet Travel Rules
Taking your pet across international borders requires extensive preparation. The american airlines pet policy for international flights requires you to comply with both the airline’s rules and the destination country’s import regulations.
You can travel with a carry-on pet to Canada, Mexico, Central America, and certain Caribbean nations, provided the specific country allows animal entry via the passenger cabin. For example, if you are flying to Japan, your pet must travel as cargo, and you must notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days before your departure.
Many countries require specialized health certificates, microchips, and specific blood tests before they will allow your pet to clear customs. You should contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country months in advance to gather the correct paperwork. Always ensure your liquid medications or pet shampoos comply with TSA 3-1-1 liquid rules when packing your carry-on bags.
How to Book Your Pet on American Airlines
Adding a pet to your reservation is a simple process, but it requires prompt action because American Airlines limits the total number of pets allowed on each flight.
- Book your own passenger ticket on aa.com or the American Airlines mobile app.
- Navigate to the “Additional Services” section of your trip management dashboard.
- Select the “Add carry-on pets” option to reserve a spot for your furry friend.
- If you cannot add the pet online, call the American Airlines reservations desk immediately to secure your pet’s spot.
- Prepare to pay the $150 pet fee at the airport check-in counter on the day of your flight.
What to Expect at the Airport
Traveling with a pet requires extra time at the airport. You should arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. You cannot use self-service kiosks when flying with a pet. You must visit the special services check-in counter so an agent can review your health certificates, weigh your pet carrier, and process your fee payment.
When you reach the security checkpoint, you must remove your pet from their carrier. The empty carrier must go through the X-ray machine. You will carry your pet in your arms or walk them on a leash through the metal detector. If you have TSA PreCheck, the screening process is generally faster and less stressful for your pet.
Once you clear security, look for designated animal relief areas within the terminal. Keep your pet safely inside their carrier while waiting at the gate and throughout the entire boarding process.
7 Tips for Flying with Pets on American Airlines
Flying can be stressful for animals. Follow these practical tips to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your companion.
- Book direct flights: Avoid layovers whenever possible. Direct flights reduce the total travel time and eliminate the stress of moving through multiple loud, crowded airports.
- Acclimate your pet to the carrier: Do not wait until the day of the flight to introduce the travel kennel. Leave the carrier open in your home for weeks before the trip. Place treats, familiar blankets, and toys inside to help your pet associate the carrier with a safe, positive environment.
- Limit food before the flight: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness. Provide small sips of water leading up to the flight, but avoid large quantities to minimize the need for bathroom breaks.
- Tire them out: Take your dog for a long walk or play intensely with your cat before heading to the airport. A tired pet is much more likely to sleep peacefully under the seat.
- Pack absorbent pads: Line the bottom of your pet’s carrier with high-quality puppy training pads. Bring a few extra pads in your personal item in case you need to quickly swap them out during a layover.
- Consult your vet about anxiety: If your pet is highly anxious, ask your veterinarian about natural calming supplements or pheromone sprays. Airlines generally discourage sedating pets, as tranquilizers can cause dangerous respiratory side effects at high altitudes.
- Label everything clearly: Attach a sturdy luggage tag to the carrier with your name, phone number, and final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, American Airlines does not allow you to purchase an extra seat for a pet. All in-cabin pets must remain in their carrier and be placed securely under the seat in front of you for the entire duration of the flight.
Yes, the check-in agents will weigh your pet while they are inside the carrier. The combined weight of your pet and the travel kennel must not exceed 20 lbs (9.07 kg) for in-cabin travel.
Pet backpack carriers are permitted as long as they meet the specific size dimensions and feature adequate ventilation. However, the backpack must be placed on its side to fit under the seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing, so you must ensure your pet can still lie down comfortably in that position.
Yes, you must present a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 10 days of your flight, along with a current rabies vaccination certificate. The check-in agent will verify these documents before allowing you to pay the pet fee and proceed to security.
If your carrier exceeds the maximum dimensions or does not fit in the airport sizer, you will not be allowed to bring your pet in the cabin. You will either need to purchase an approved carrier at the airport (if available), rebook your flight, or arrange for your pet to travel via the cargo service.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with your pet on American Airlines requires careful planning, strict adherence to carrier dimensions, and timely veterinary visits. By understanding the rules ahead of time, you can avoid surprise fees and ensure a comfortable flight for your furry companion. Start by measuring your pet, securing an approved kennel, and booking your reservation early, as cabin pet spots sell out quickly. To learn more about the airline’s overall history and operations, read our About American Airlines profile.
The information in this article is based on data available at the time of publishing. Airlines reserve the right to change their policies at any time. For the most current and accurate information, please visit the official website of American Airlines or contact their customer service. Pet policies vary by route and destination country. Always check the regulations of your destination country regarding animal import requirements, quarantine rules, and required documentation.