According to the American Airlines Animal Policy, small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin. American Airlines pet policy in-cabin states if it's a domestic flight the pet age should be at least 8 weeks and if the pet is traveling to the US from another country i.e. international flight then it should be 16 weeks. Moreover, if you cancel your flight then, your pet can not travel in cabin.
As per American Airlines baggage weight policy, pet weight should not exceed 9kg. Trained animals can travel free of a service cost on in-cabin flights. Pets have to stay in their kennels only. You cannot keep your pet on your lap or on the seat, he should remain inside the pet carrier while flying on American Airlines. On American Airlines flying with pets is a very comfortable and great experience. On international flights, a health certificate is necessary.
Your small puppy or cat traveling on American Airlines must remain inside the carrier and below the seat in front of you for the entire journey. According to the American Airlines Pet Policy in the cabin the carrier carrying your dog or cat must have a waterproof bottom, having sufficient space for your pet to move around and sit comfortably with proper ventilation. American Airlines pet carrier size for in cabin must be 19in X 13in X 9in. The carrier must fit properly below the seat in front of you.
Pets traveling in the cabin require a reservation. Contact American Airlines Reservations in advance of your flight. English-Speaking callers should dial 1-800-433-7300.
Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?
Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:
- Your itinerary does not include travel to the United Kingdom.
- Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel for the entire flight.
- Kennels for checked pets must have a water container with outside access for filling, in case a delay occurs as well as a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top of the container.
- Checked pets can not be accepted when the ground temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit at any location on the itinerary. It is best to call ahead.
- The kennel meets all requirements (see below for more information) and does not exceed 40in x 27in x 30in (length x width x height) and weight of animal and kennel combined does not exceed 100 lb.
- Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).
- You are not traveling on a flight longer than 12 hours.
- Series 700 kennels are not allowed on any American Airlines planes.
- Series 500 kennels are not allowed on Boeing MD-80 aircraft.
- Checked pets do not require a reservation. Still, they will not be accepted more than four hours prior to scheduled flight time and are accepted on a first-come basis.
Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?
If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or if you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied, contact American Airlines Cargo for more information.
What are the fees associated with pet transport?
- Fee for animal in the passenger cabin to/from United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean: $125 one way
- Fee for animal checked as baggage to/from United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean: $175 one way
- Fee for animal traveling to other destinations in the cabin or as checked baggage: Contact American Airlines Reservations
- Fee for animal shipped as cargo: Contact American Airlines Cargo
What are the kennel requirements?
In addition to the size and weight maximums, the USDA and American Airlines require that kennels meet the following requirements:
- Kennels must be constructed of wood, metal, plastic or a similar material, leak-proof, escape proof and door must fasten securely and need ventilation on 2-sides in addition to the door. Kennels must also have a water container with outside access for filling, in case a delay occurs.
- Collapsible Kennels (those which can fold down flat) cannot be accepted due to the risk of collapse during transport.
- Separate food and water dishes must be securely attached inside the kennel and accessible without opening. Customer must also attach a small bag of food for a 24-hour period to the top of the container.
- The customer is required to secure rigid plastic kennels with releasable cable ties (see example at right) attached to all four corners. American Airlines will provide the ties to the customer at no cost.
- The maximum size for checked kennels is a series 500 kennel with the following dimensions: 40” long x 27” wide x 30” high. However, this size kennel is not accepted on the Boeing MD-80 (S80). Kennels checked on MD-80s must be able to fit through the cargo door while remaining in an upright position. MD-80 cargo doors are 29” high x 53” wide.
- Series 700 kennels are not allowed on any aircraft.
- The maximum weight of a checked pet and kennel (combined) cannot exceed 100 lbs.
- Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
- Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.
What health documentation is required?
While American Airlines does not require a health certificate for your animal to travel domestically, some States do require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements. Contact American Airlines about health documentation required for animals traveling to Hawaii and international destinations.