Does United Airlines Allow Pets On Board?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

United Airlines is one of the leading airlines in the world, offering a wide range of services to passengers. For pet owners, one of the most important questions is whether United Airlines allows pets on board. While some airlines have strict rules about allowing pets on board, United Airlines has a more relaxed policy, making it a popular choice for pet owners traveling with their furry companions.

If you’re planning a trip and want to bring your pet along, it’s important to understand United Airlines’ pet policy. In this article, we’ll explore the guidelines for traveling with pets on United Airlines, including the types of pets allowed, restrictions, and requirements. So, let’s dive in and find out if you can take your furry friend on board with you!

Does United Airlines Allow Pets on Board?

Does United Airlines Allow Pets on Board?

If you are planning to travel with your furry friend, it’s essential to know the airline’s pet policy. United Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States that allows pets on board. However, there are specific requirements and restrictions that every pet owner must follow to ensure their pet’s safety and comfort during the journey.

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United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines allows domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds (excluding cockatoos) to travel on their flights. However, the airline doesn’t accept pets as checked baggage or cargo. Instead, they offer two options for pet travel:

1. In-Cabin Pet Travel: United Airlines allows small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners. The pet’s carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and must follow the airline’s size and weight restrictions.

2. PetSafe Program: United Airlines offers a special program called PetSafe, which is designed for pets that are too large to travel in the cabin. This program ensures your pet’s safety and comfort during the journey.

Requirements for In-Cabin Pet Travel

If you plan to travel with your pet in the cabin, you must comply with the following requirements:

– Your pet must be at least 16 weeks old.
– The pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
– The pet and the carrier must weigh a maximum of 20 pounds.
– You must make a reservation for your pet in advance as United Airlines allows only a limited number of pets per flight.

Requirements for PetSafe Program

If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin, you can opt for the PetSafe program. However, you must comply with the following requirements:

– Your pet must be at least 16 weeks old.
– You must provide a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within ten days of the travel date.
– Your pet’s carrier must meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
– You must make a reservation for your pet in advance.

Costs and Fees

United Airlines charges a fee for pet travel, which varies depending on the travel destination and the type of pet travel. For in-cabin pet travel, the fee is $125 each way, and for PetSafe program, the fee ranges from $275 to $500 each way.

Benefits of Traveling with Your Pet on United Airlines

Traveling with your pet on United Airlines has some benefits, such as:

– You can keep your pet with you during the journey, making it less stressful for your pet.
– United Airlines offers a special program (PetSafe) that ensures your pet’s safety and comfort during the journey.
– You can earn MileagePlus miles when you travel with your pet on United Airlines.

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Conclusion

United Airlines allows pets on board, but there are specific requirements and restrictions that every pet owner must follow. In-cabin pet travel and PetSafe program are the two options available for pet travel on United Airlines. Traveling with your pet on United Airlines has some benefits, but it’s essential to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about United Airlines’ pet policy.

What types of pets does United Airlines allow on board?

United Airlines allows cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds (excluding cockatoos) to travel in the cabin with their owners. Other animals, such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and reptiles, must be transported in the cargo hold.

It is important to note that the number of pets allowed on a flight is limited, so passengers should make arrangements with the airline in advance to ensure that their pets can travel with them.

What are the fees for traveling with a pet on United Airlines?

The fees for traveling with a pet on United Airlines vary depending on the type of animal, size, and destination. For example, the fee for a domestic cat, dog, or rabbit traveling in the cabin is $125 each way, while the fee for a household bird is $75 each way.

Passengers should also be aware that there may be additional fees for pets traveling in the cargo hold, and that fees are subject to change at any time.

What documentation is required when traveling with a pet on United Airlines?

When traveling with a pet on United Airlines, passengers must provide a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. The certificate must state that the animal is healthy and fit to fly, and must include information about the animal’s vaccinations.

Passengers should also be prepared to present proof of ownership and any other documentation required by the destination state or country.

What are the requirements for pet carriers on United Airlines?

Pet carriers on United Airlines must meet certain size and safety requirements. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger, and must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

The carrier must also be well-ventilated and leak-proof, and must have a secure latch or locking mechanism. Soft-sided carriers are recommended for pets traveling in the cabin, while hard-sided carriers are required for pets traveling in the cargo hold.

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What should I do if my pet is traveling in the cargo hold on United Airlines?

If a pet is traveling in the cargo hold on United Airlines, passengers should take certain precautions to ensure their pet’s safety and comfort. This includes labeling the carrier with the pet’s name, feeding and watering the animal before the flight, and providing a comfortable blanket or bedding.

Passengers should also consider booking a direct flight whenever possible, and should avoid traveling with their pets in extreme temperatures or during peak travel times. It is also recommended that passengers check on their pets as soon as possible after the flight lands to ensure that they are safe and healthy.

How to fly with your cat/dog on United Airlines || United Airlines Pet Policy


In conclusion, United Airlines does allow pets on board, but there are some important rules and regulations you need to be aware of before booking your flight. Whether you want to bring your furry friend with you in the cabin or check them in as cargo, you’ll need to make sure you meet all the requirements set by the airline.

If you’re planning to bring your pet with you in the cabin, you’ll need to make sure they meet United Airlines’ size and weight restrictions. Pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. Additionally, you’ll need to provide all the necessary documentation and pay the appropriate fees.

If you’re planning to check your pet in as cargo, you’ll need to make sure they meet the airline’s requirements for travel crates and documentation. You’ll also need to make sure you’re aware of any restrictions or limitations on the types of animals that can travel as cargo. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can ensure that your pet travels safely and comfortably with United Airlines.

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