What animals can I bring on a plane?
On most airlines you can bring a small dog or cat in the cabin, in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Some airlines also accept small household birds, rabbits, or other small pets, while many accept only cats and dogs. Larger pets may travel as checked baggage or cargo where the airline still offers it, and trained service dogs can fly in the cabin free under separate rules. Exotic animals, rodents, reptiles, and insects are usually not accepted in the cabin.
What usually decides it
- Species. Dogs and cats are the standard. Birds, rabbits, and others vary by airline and route.
- Size and weight. The pet must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat; some airlines set a combined weight limit for pet and carrier.
- Breed. Many airlines restrict snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats from cargo because of breathing risks.
- Route. International flights and some destinations, such as places with strict rabies rules, have tighter limits or ban pets in the cabin.
- Space. Airlines cap the number of pets per cabin, so book early.
- Age and health. Pets that are too young or not vaccinated are often refused.
Service and emotional support animals
Under US Department of Transportation rules, airlines must accept trained service dogs, usually with a DOT form, and they fly free. Since 2021, emotional support animals no longer have special status on US airlines and can be treated as regular pets.
Before you book
- Check the airline's pet policy and reserve a pet spot.
- Check the destination's entry rules: microchip, rabies vaccination, health certificate and sometimes quarantine. For dogs entering the US, check current CDC requirements.
- Get your pet used to its carrier weeks in advance.
Going through airport security with a pet
At TSA checkpoints you take your pet out of the carrier and carry it or walk it on a leash through the metal detector, while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray. Use a harness or leash so your pet can't escape.
FAQ
Which animals are not allowed on planes?
Most airlines refuse snakes, rodents, insects, spiders, and other exotic pets in the cabin. Wild animals and protected species need special permits and usually travel only as cargo, if at all.
Can I take my 50 lb dog on a plane?
Not in the cabin unless it is a trained service dog. A large dog must fly as checked baggage or cargo, where the airline offers it.
Can my pet sit on my lap on the plane?
No. Pets must stay in their carrier under the seat for the whole flight.
Can pets go in carry-on luggage?
Yes, a small pet in an approved soft-sided carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item on many airlines, and a pet fee applies.
How much does it cost to fly with a pet?
In-cabin pet fees on US airlines are typically charged each way per pet. Cargo costs depend on size and route. Check the airline's pet page for current fees.
Is flying safe for pets?
Most pets fly without problems, especially in the cabin. Risks are higher in cargo and in hot weather, and for snub-nosed breeds.