American Airlines Pet Policy

American Airlines Pet Policy

Posted By: Admin 18 Nov, 2023

Travel to Your Desired Destinations with Your Pet Friend with American Airlines Pet Policy

Are you planning a trip and wondering about the American Airlines pet policy? If you’re a pet owner, you know that traveling with your furry friend can be both exciting and challenging. When it comes to flying with your beloved pet, understanding the intricacies of airline pet policies is paramount. Each airline has its unique set of rules, and American Airlines pet policy is no exception. 

The good news is that American Airlines has crafted a pet travel policy that caters to the needs of both pets and their owners. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of the American Airlines travel pet policy, so you can jet-set with your beloved companion worry-free.

American Airlines Pet Policy: A Closer Look

American Airlines is well aware of the fact that many travelers want to bring their pets along, and they have designed a comprehensive pet policy to accommodate them. Whether you’re planning a domestic flight or an international journey, you’ll find American Airlines pet travel guidelines to be quite pet-friendly. They allow pets to travel both in the cabin and in the cargo hold, depending on the size and type of pet.

Everything You Should Know About American Airlines’ Pet Policy

American Airlines warmly welcomes cats and dogs as your in-flight companions, but it’s important to note that other types of pets are not allowed. According to the American Airlines pet policy, your feline friend or canine companion is eligible for most flights up to 12 hours in duration. These flights encompass destinations such as the 48 contiguous United States, the United States and Canada, Alaska, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Croix and St. Thomas).

However, it’s essential to plan ahead, as American Airlines charges a $125 fee for each one-way itinerary when your pet accompanies you in the cabin. If your journey includes a stopover exceeding four hours within the U.S., you’ll incur an additional $125 charge. 

Pro tip: You might be able to offset some of these fees by using a credit card with airline fee credits.

Booking and Capacity Considerations

Unlike some other airlines, American Airlines provides transparency by disclosing the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight. For its mainline flights, American airlines’ pet travel guidelines permit up to seven kennels, and it’s worth noting that service animals do not count towards this limit. However, for American Eagle flights, the allowance is slightly lower at five kennels per flight, with a maximum of one carrier in first class. Be aware that if your flight has already reached its cap for in-cabin animals, rescheduling your trip might be the only option.

American Airlines Pet Travel Guidelines

To ensure a hassle-free journey with your pet, it’s essential to follow American Airlines’ pet travel guidelines. Consider the following important guidelines:

The American Airlines Pet Policy allows you to check up to 2 pets, but they must meet the destination’s age and health requirements. Since space is limited, it’s a first-come, first-served affair.

Contact Reservations at least 48 hours before your travel, check in at the ticket counter with your official orders, and allow extra check-in time – at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight. But that’s not all; you’ll need to complete a checklist with an agent and provide a health certificate. 

Before your flight, make sure your pet is healthy and up-to-date with vaccinations. The health certificate, your pet’s passport to adventure, should be issued by a vet within 10 days of your travel, or within 60 days of your return if you’re traveling on the same ticket. If you’re flying on a separate ticket, make sure it’s within 10 days of your return.

As the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) wisely advises, American Airlines Pet Policy does not accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Why, you ask? Well, sedated pets face a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular issues at high altitudes.

Traveling with your pet in the cabin can be an excellent way to minimize stress and anxiety for both you and your furry friend. It may be a seamless and joyful encounter with the correct planning.

American airlines pet travel policy

Pet owners should be aware that American Airlines Pet Policy restricts pet travel in the cargo hold for most passengers. The flight storage space is as precious as legroom, which is why carry-on pets are not permitted in the luxurious First or Business Class. But fear not, your pets can still enjoy a cozy flight in the main cabin. The exceptions are active-duty U.S. military personnel and traveling on official business are U.S. State Department Foreign Service employees. If you fall into one of these categories, there are additional requirements to consider, which can be found on the American Airlines website.

Traveling Internationally with Pets

If you’re planning an international trip with your pet, there are additional requirements to consider. Each country has its own regulations, and it’s essential to research and comply with them. Additionally, some destinations may require specific permits or documentation for pet entry. American Airlines pet travel guidelines provide a useful tool on their website to help you navigate the requirements for your specific destination.

Booking Your Pet’s Journey

To utilize the American Airlines pet policy, it’s crucial to call reservations to add your pet to your booking. A knowledgeable agent will assist you in adding your pet to your record, provided there is still availability for kennels on your chosen flights.

You can also add your carry-on pet to your American Airlines trip with American Airlines Pet Policy. Simply go to its official website, select ‘Add carry-on pets,’ agree to requirements, choose your flights, and you’re ready for a pet-friendly adventure. 

Conclusion

American Airlines’ pet policy has gone to great lengths to ensure that your pet can travel with you conveniently and safely. Whether your pet travels in the cabin or the cargo hold, following the airline’s pet travel policy and guidelines will help make the journey comfortable and worry-free. Booking early and adhering to size regulations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your cherished pet companion. Bon voyage!

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