If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend, you might be wondering how much it costs to fly your dog on American Airlines. Whether it’s a short domestic flight or an international trip, knowing the fees and requirements can help you prepare and budget accordingly.
Flying with a pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be stressful if you’re not fully prepared. In this article, we’ll explore the costs and regulations for flying a dog on American Airlines, so you can make an informed decision and ensure a smooth journey for you and your furry companion.
Contents
- How Much to Fly a Dog on American Airlines?
- 1. American Airlines Pet Policy
- 2. Cabin Pet Travel Fees
- 3. Checked Pet Travel Fees
- 4. Cargo Pet Travel Fees
- 5. Additional Fees and Requirements
- 6. Benefits of Flying with Your Pet on American Airlines
- 7. Pet Travel on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines
- 8. Tips for Traveling with Your Pet on American Airlines
- 9. Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the requirements for flying a dog on American Airlines?
- What is the cost to fly a dog on American Airlines?
- What size carrier do I need for my dog?
- Can I fly with more than one dog?
- What if my dog is too large to fly in the cabin with me?
- How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines
- How Many Bags American Airlines?
- How To Fly Standby On American Airlines?
- Why Does My American Airlines Ticket Say Pending?
How Much to Fly a Dog on American Airlines?
Traveling with your furry friend can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. One of the biggest concerns for pet owners is the cost of flying their pets with them. American Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, and they offer pet travel services. In this article, we will discuss how much it costs to fly a dog on American Airlines, as well as other important details you need to know.
1. American Airlines Pet Policy
Before we dive into the cost of flying a dog on American Airlines, let’s take a look at their pet policy. According to American Airlines, pets are allowed to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on the size of the pet and the destination. The airline accepts cats and dogs for transport, as well as household birds and rabbits. However, there are some restrictions and requirements you need to be aware of before booking your pet’s travel.
- Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
- Pets must be in good health and not exhibiting any signs of illness or distress.
- Only one pet is allowed per passenger, and there is a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight.
2. Cabin Pet Travel Fees
If your pet is small enough to fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you, you may be able to bring them with you in the cabin. American Airlines charges a fee of $125 each way for cabin pet travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The fee for international travel is $200 each way. Keep in mind that there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed in the cabin, so it’s important to make a reservation for your pet in advance.
3. Checked Pet Travel Fees
If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin, you may be able to check them as baggage. American Airlines charges a fee of $200 each way for checked pet travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The fee for international travel is $150 each way. You will need to provide an appropriate carrier for your pet, and there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed in the cargo hold.
4. Cargo Pet Travel Fees
If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, they may need to travel as cargo. American Airlines charges a fee of $275 each way for cargo pet travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The fee for international travel is $450 each way. You will need to provide an appropriate crate for your pet, and there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed in the cargo hold.
5. Additional Fees and Requirements
It’s important to note that there may be additional fees and requirements for pet travel on American Airlines. For example, if you are traveling with a service animal, there are different rules and fees that apply. Additionally, some destinations may have specific requirements for pet travel, such as health certificates or quarantine periods. It’s important to research your destination and contact American Airlines in advance to make sure you have all the necessary information.
6. Benefits of Flying with Your Pet on American Airlines
Despite the cost of pet travel on American Airlines, there are many benefits to bringing your pet with you on your trip. For one, you won’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend behind or finding a pet sitter. Additionally, if you are traveling with a service animal, you will have the support and assistance you need during your flight. Finally, traveling with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion.
7. Pet Travel on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines
When it comes to pet travel, American Airlines is not the only airline that offers this service. Other popular airlines, such as Delta and United, also allow pets to travel on their flights. However, the cost and policies may vary depending on the airline and destination. It’s important to research your options and compare the costs and benefits before booking your ticket.
8. Tips for Traveling with Your Pet on American Airlines
Traveling with your pet on American Airlines can be stressful, but there are some tips you can follow to make the experience easier for both you and your furry friend:
- Book your pet’s travel in advance to ensure availability and avoid last-minute fees.
- Get your pet accustomed to their carrier or crate before the flight.
- Provide your pet with plenty of water and food before and during the flight.
- Take your pet for a walk or let them stretch their legs before and after the flight.
- Bring along any necessary medications or supplies for your pet.
9. Conclusion
Flying with your pet on American Airlines can be a convenient and rewarding experience, but it’s important to understand the costs and requirements before booking your ticket. Whether you are traveling in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, there are fees and restrictions that you need to be aware of. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a safe and stress-free trip for you and your furry companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers regarding flying a dog on American Airlines.
What are the requirements for flying a dog on American Airlines?
When flying a dog on American Airlines, there are a few requirements that must be met. First, the dog must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Second, the dog must be in good health and able to withstand the stress of air travel. Third, the dog must be properly secured in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
It’s important to note that different breeds may have different requirements, so it’s best to check with American Airlines before booking your flight.
What is the cost to fly a dog on American Airlines?
The cost to fly a dog on American Airlines varies depending on a few factors, such as the size of the dog and the length of the flight. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $125 to $250 each way for a dog to fly in the cabin with you. If your dog is too large to fit under the seat, you may need to book a separate cargo flight, which can cost upwards of $500 each way.
It’s best to contact American Airlines directly to get an accurate quote for your specific situation.
What size carrier do I need for my dog?
The size of the carrier you need for your dog depends on the size of your dog. American Airlines has specific guidelines for carrier size, which can be found on their website. In general, the carrier should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must also fit under the seat in front of you.
It’s important to measure your dog carefully and choose a carrier that meets the airline’s requirements to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your furry friend.
Can I fly with more than one dog?
Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to fly with up to two dogs in the cabin with them, as long as the dogs are small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of them. If you have more than two dogs, or if your dogs are too large to fit in a carrier, you may need to book a separate cargo flight.
It’s important to note that each passenger is limited to one pet carrier, so if you have two dogs, they will need to share a carrier that meets the airline’s size requirements.
What if my dog is too large to fly in the cabin with me?
If your dog is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you, you may need to book a separate cargo flight. American Airlines offers cargo services for pets, but it’s important to note that this can be a more stressful experience for your dog than flying in the cabin with you.
Before booking a cargo flight, make sure you understand the airline’s requirements and restrictions, as well as any additional fees that may apply.
How To Travel With A Dog On American Airlines
In conclusion, flying with your furry friend on American Airlines can be a convenient option, but it comes with a cost. The price to fly a dog varies depending on the weight and size of your pup, as well as the destination. It’s important to plan ahead and prepare for the additional expenses that come with bringing your pet on board.
While the fees for flying your dog on American Airlines may seem steep, many pet owners find it worth it to have their furry companion by their side during their travels. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all dogs are suitable for air travel, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian before booking your flight.
Overall, American Airlines provides a comprehensive and reliable pet travel service, making it a top choice for pet owners. By following the guidelines and preparing for the costs, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your furry friend. Bon voyage!