American Airlines Pet Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

American Airlines is renowned for its dedication to offering top-tier services to travelers. As part of this dedication, the airline company has actually carried out a complete animal policy that thinks about all the requirements of animal owners. This guide provides an extensive take a look at the American Airlines animal policy.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of the American Airlines Pet Policy
2. In-Cabin Pet Policy
3. Checked Pet Policy
4. Cargo Pet Policy
5. Service and Emotional Support Animals
6. Traveling Internationally With Pets
7. Preparing Your Pet For Travel
8. Prohibited Pets and Breeds
9. Conclusion

Overview of the American Airlines Pet Policy

American Airlines accommodates the travel requirements of animals by permitting them to fly in 3 methods – in the cabin with their owner, as inspected luggage, or through their freight service. The option depends upon the size, breed, and types of the animal, along with the location and duration of the flight.

In-Cabin Pet Policy

Small animals are permitted to take a trip in the cabin on many domestic flights and some worldwide flights, supplied they remain in an authorized provider that fits under the seat in front. The animal and provider integrated should not go beyond 20 pounds (9 kg).

The animal provider is thought about a piece of carry-on baggage. Pets should stay in their provider, under the seat, for the whole flight, and should be at least 8 weeks old.

There is a family pet charge, which is payable at the check-in counter. Reservations for in-cabin animals cannot be made online and need to be made by calling the airline company straight after scheduling your flight.

Checked Pet Policy

For bigger animals that go beyond the weight limitation for in-cabin travel, American Airlines permits animals to be transferred as inspected luggage. This service is just available on flights less than 12 hours and the animal and provider integrated need to not go beyond 100 pounds (45 kg).

Pets should remain in a well-ventilated, secure, and tough provider with sufficient space for the animal to move. Like the in-cabin policy, animals should be at least 8 weeks old.

The inspected pet service is not available on all flights and might be impacted by climate condition. Make sure to get in touch with the airline company ahead of time to verify your animal’s travel plans.

Cargo Pet Policy

For specific animals, the very best choice is to take a trip through American Airlines Cargo. This service is available for animals that are too big to take a trip as inspected luggage or for flights longer than 12 hours.

The freight holds are temperature-controlled and pressurized, comparable to the cabin, guaranteeing your animal’s convenience throughout the flight.

Reservations for this service needs to be made ahead of time, and animals should be dropped off and got at the freight center, not the guest terminal.

Service and Emotional Support Animals

As of 2021, American Airlines lines up with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s judgment and just accepts totally skilled service dogs in the cabin at no charge. These dogs need to carry out tasks or work for an individual with a special needs.

Documentation verifying the dog’s training, habits, and health needs to be sent a minimum of 2 days prior to the flight.

Traveling Internationally With Pets

When taking a trip globally with animals, it’s necessary to investigate the animal import policies of the location nation, as the guidelines can differ substantially. Some nations might need quarantine or particular vaccinations.

American Airlines will stick to all worldwide policies, and it’s the animal owner’s obligation to guarantee they satisfy the essential requirements.

Preparing Your Pet For Travel

Preparation is essential for guaranteeing your animal has a comfy journey. Here are some ideas:

1. Visit the Vet: Ensure your animal is healthy enough to take a trip and is current with vaccinations. Some locations may need particular health certificates.

2. Get a Comfortable Carrier: The provider must be well-ventilated, secure, and big enough for your animal to stand, turn, and rest.
3. Food and Water: Provide sufficient food and water for your animal. For longer journeys, connect meals for food and water to the within the provider.
4. Labels: Label the provider with “Live Animal,” your animal’s name, your contact info, and a picture of your animal. Also, consist of info about unique requirements, consisting of diet plan and medication.

Prohibited Pets and Breeds

It’s crucial to note that not all animals are permitted to fly with American Airlines. Pets like reptiles, amphibians, rodents, spiders, and ferrets are declined. Snub-nosed dogs and cats, typically at threat throughout flight, might likewise be forbidden.

Certain dog types such as Boxers, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs, and cat types like Himalayans and Persians, are declined as inspected animals or freight due to their increased threat of heat stroke and breathing issues.

Ensure to consult the airline company for their most upgraded list of forbidden animals and types.

Conclusion

American Airlines is devoted to offering a safe and comfy journey for animals. Their extensive animal policy is created to deal with the various requirements of animals and animal owners. Whether your animal is taking a trip in the cabin, as inspected luggage, or through freight, American Airlines guarantees they are well-taken care of.

However, as policies might alter, it’s constantly a good concept to get in touch with the airline company straight or visit their website for the most present info prior to scheduling a flight for your animal.

Remember, preparing your animal for travel and comprehending the guidelines and policies will guarantee a smoother and more satisfying travel experience for you and your furry friend.