Flying with a pet can be stressful. Policies vary widely. Costs differ. And rules change often. To make planning easier, this guide breaks down the best airlines to travel with pets in 2025.
We focus on real policy details. You’ll learn what each airline allows, what fees to expect, and what kinds of pets are accepted.
Understanding airline pet policies before you book saves time at the airport. It also makes travel safer and calmer for your companion.
What “Airlines to Travel with Pets” Really Means
When we talk about airlines to travel with pets, we mean airlines that let you bring your animal companion with you on a flight.
This could be:
- Pets in the cabin with you.
- The pets as checked baggage.
- Pets shipped via cargo.
Policies are very different from airline to airline. Some carriers allow cats, dogs, rabbits, and even birds in the main cabin. Others restrict pets to cargo only. Some charge high fees. Others are more budget-minded.
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Safety and comfort for your pet are priorities. But rules, fees, and space restrictions all matter.
Key Things to Know Before You Book
Before you choose among the airlines to travel with pets, consider the following:
- In-cabin travel means your pet goes with you under the seat in a carrier.
- Cargo or checked travel means your pet flies in a separate, pressurized hold. Not all airlines allow this on all aircraft.
- Pet fees are charged per flight direction.
- Size and weight limits vary. Most airlines require a carrier that fits under the seat. Others allow larger pets in cargo.
- Documentation like health certificates and vaccination proof may be required, especially for international travel.
Knowing these basics helps you choose the best airline for your needs.
Top Airlines to Travel with Pets in the U.S.
In the United States, several major carriers offer pet travel options. Each has different policies. Below we cover the most pet-friendly ones based on carrier rules and costs.
- Alaska Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Southwest Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Spirit Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
1. Alaska Airlines – Best Overall for Pet Owners
Alaska Airlines is often considered the best airline to travel with pets among U.S. carriers. It combines flexibility, lower fees, and broad acceptance of animal types.
Pets allowed in cabin: Only small dogs and cats that fit in an under‑seat carrier are permitted on flights booked today. Domesticated rabbits and household birds are no longer allowed in the cabin for new bookings — they are permitted only if the ticket was purchased before June 5, 2025, and travel must occur by April 4, 2026.
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Fee: Typically about $100 USD/CAD each way per carrier for in‑cabin pets on Alaska Airlines flights.
Number allowed:
- Up to two pets of the same species and similar size may share one carrier if they are comfortable and no body parts protrude.
- Alaska limits the number of pet carriers per flight, and space is on a first‑come basis; booking pet space early is recommended.
Why it stands out: Alaska Airlines remains one of the most robust Airlines to Travel with Pets because it supports in‑cabin travel for small dogs and cats and also offers options for larger or unaccompanied pets through its Pet Connect cargo service.
Considerations:
- The pet carrier counts toward your carry‑on allowance and must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Pets must remain inside the carrier throughout the flight.
- Reservation of pet space is required (often by calling) and subject to availability.
- For pets that don’t qualify for in‑cabin travel (size, species, or other restrictions), Alaska’s Pet Connect cargo service provides an alternative.
For pet owners who want more options and lower pet fees, Alaska often ranks in the top list of airlines to travel with pets.
2. JetBlue Airways – Pet Perks and Good Cabin Policy
JetBlue is another great choice for pet travel. It’s known for clear rules and a focused pet program.
- Pets allowed in cabin: Small dogs and cats only.
- Fee: Around $125 each way.
- Program benefits: JetBlue’s “JetPaws” pet travel program provides carriers with tags and helpful travel guides. Some bonus travel points may be earned when booking pets.
- Limits: Pets must ride in a carrier under the seat for the duration of the flight. JetBlue does not allow pets to travel as checked baggage or in cargo.
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Even with limits, JetBlue’s dedicated pet support and reasonable fees make it one of the best airlines to travel with pets for domestic U.S. trips.
3. Southwest Airlines – Simple and Budget-Friendly Pet Travel
Southwest offers straightforward policies for pet owners. It keeps things simple. And that’s part of its appeal.
- Pets allowed in cabin: Small cats and dogs only.
- Fee: Around $125 each way.
- Carriers: Must fit under the seat for the entire flight.
- Limitations: Pets cannot travel internationally. Southwest applies only to mainland U.S. travel. Always check with Southwest for the latest guidelines, though.
- Why some choose it: Southwest has a flat pet fee and clear guidance, which helps reduce stress at the airport.
If your travel plans stay domestic and your pet fits the rules, Southwest is a reliable option.
4. American Airlines – Flexible but Pricier
American Airlines also allows pets to travel with you in the cabin, though its policies are stricter.
- Pets allowed in cabin: Cats and dogs only.
- Fee: About $150 each way.
- Policy update: Carriers no longer count against your carry-on limit, giving you an extra personal item.
- Restrictions: Breed and weight limits apply. Season and route restrictions may also affect pet travel.
- Cargo options: Some pets can travel separately as cargo on certain routes.
American is a solid choice among the major traditional carriers. However, the higher fee and tighter restrictions make it slightly less friendly than Alaska or JetBlue for small pet travel.
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5. Delta Air Lines – Wide Pet Program with International Reach
Delta offers both cabin and cargo pet programs. It’s suitable for some international travel, with restrictions.
- Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, and household birds (in cabin).
- Fees: Typically range from $95 to $200 based on route and season.
- International notes: Some destinations prohibit cabin pets. Always check before booking.
- Cargo options: Larger pets may travel via Delta Cargo when cabin space isn’t available.
Delta’s range of pet travel options makes it popular, but complexity and varying fees mean you should plan ahead.
6. Spirit & Frontier – Budget Airlines with Pet Options
Both Spirit and Frontier allow pets in the cabin on domestic flights.
- Spirit Airlines: Allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds in cabin for about $125.
- Frontier Airlines: Offers in-cabin travel for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and small birds for around $99.
- Caveats: Only cabin travel; no cargo options. Limited space means early booking is essential.
These low-cost carriers are viable options for short domestic trips if your pet fits the requirements.
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International Pet Travel: Policies and Considerations
If you’re flying overseas with your pet, the pickings narrow. Some major international airlines accept pets in certain classes, but rules vary significantly.
- Etihad Airways allows small cats and dogs in cabin on certain routes, though fees can be high.
- Lufthansa has a strong pet transport reputation, offering cabin, checked, and cargo travel, along with animal care facilities like an “Animal Lounge” at Frankfurt Airport.
- Emirates typically does not allow pets in cabin except service animals, and cargo travel is the main option.
- Qatar Airways permits pets as cargo or checked baggage with climate-controlled care at its hub.
International pet travel requires more planning. You’ll likely need advanced paperwork, health certificates, and preparation for entry requirements in destination countries.
Tips for Safe and Comfortable Pet Travel
Choosing from the airlines to travel with pets is one step. Preparing your pet is equally important.
Choose the Right Carrier
Your pet must have enough room to stand, turn, and lie down. Airlines require carriers that fit under seats for cabin travel. Always measure the space before you book.
Visit the Vet Before Travel
Get a recent health certificate and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Some airlines require documentation at check-in.
Learn Airline Rules Early
Each airline’s pet rules are unique. Cabin limits, seasonal bans, and weight limits all vary. Confirm policies before you book.
Book Early
Many airlines limit the number of pets per flight. Reserving spots early increases your chances of bringing your pet with you.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Airlines to Travel with Pets
There isn’t one single “best” airline for everyone. But among carriers in 2025:
- Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, and Southwest are top choices if you want straightforward and flexible in-cabin travel.
- American Airlines and Delta offer robust options with wider networks.
- Budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier work well if your trip is domestic and your pet fits the size rules.
- For international travel, carriers like Lufthansa, Etihad, and Qatar Airways may be appropriate, but prepare for more rules and costs.
Understanding airline policies helps you plan carefully. The better you prepare, the smoother the journey for both you and your pet.
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