Can I Buy My Dog a Seat on an Airplane? Here’s What You Need to Know
For many dog owners, the thought of flying without their furry companion is hard to imagine. Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or simply prefer to keep your dog by your side, you might wonder
Can I buy my dog a seat on an airplane?
The short answer is that while you can’t purchase a seat for your dog like you would for a human passenger, some airlines offer options that allow your dog to travel in the cabin with you—under specific conditions. Let’s dive into the details of which airlines allow dogs to travel in the cabin, their requirements, and what options you have if your dog is too large for this arrangement.
Airlines That Allow Dogs in the Cabin
Several major airlines allow small dogs to travel with you in the cabin, but they must fit under the seat in front of you. Typically, the dog must be in an airline-approved carrier, and weight restrictions apply. Below is a list of airlines that allow dogs to travel in the cabin:
1. American Airlines
- Cabin Policy: American Airlines allows small dogs to travel in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat.
- Weight Limit: The combined weight of your dog and the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
- Cost: $125 per pet carrier, per flight.
- Important Note: American Airlines only allows pets in the cabin on flights within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and certain South American countries.
2. Delta Air Lines
- Cabin Policy: Delta allows small dogs to travel in the cabin as long as they remain in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
- Weight Limit: There is no official weight limit, but the pet and carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
- Cost: $95–$200 per carrier, depending on the flight’s destination.
- Important Note: Delta only allows pets in the cabin on select international flights, so be sure to check with the airline before booking.
3. Southwest Airlines
- Cabin Policy: Southwest allows small dogs in the cabin, but they must remain in a carrier that fits under the seat.
- Weight Limit: No specific weight limit is stated, but your pet and carrier must fit under the seat.
- Cost: $95 per pet carrier, each way.
- Important Note: Southwest only allows pets on domestic flights.
4. JetBlue
- Cabin Policy: JetBlue allows small dogs in the cabin in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
- Weight Limit: The combined weight of the dog and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
- Cost: $125 per pet, each way.
- Important Note: JetBlue has a pet program called “JetPaws,” which includes a few pet-friendly perks, such as extra TrueBlue points for flying with your pet.
5. Alaska Airlines
- Cabin Policy: Alaska Airlines allows small dogs in the cabin as long as they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
- Weight Limit: The combined weight of the dog and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
- Cost: $100 per pet, each way.
- Important Note: Alaska Airlines allows pets on both domestic and some international flights, but there are restrictions for international travel, so it’s important to check with the airline before booking.
Can You Buy a Seat for a Dog?
While most airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin, you cannot purchase an entire seat for your dog. Dogs traveling in the cabin must stay in their carrier, which fits under the seat in front of you, throughout the flight. The carrier takes the place of your personal item (e.g., a backpack or purse). You won’t be able to have your dog sit on the seat beside you, even if you’re willing to pay for an extra ticket.
However, some airlines do allow you to purchase an additional seat for more comfort, but your dog will still need to remain in the carrier on the floor. This option is useful if you want extra legroom or space around your feet for the pet carrier.
What If My Dog Is Too Large for the Cabin?
If your dog is too large to fit under the seat, there are other options:
1. Checked Pet Baggage
Many airlines allow larger dogs to travel as checked baggage, meaning your dog will be placed in the cargo hold in an airline-approved crate. While this may sound daunting, the cargo hold is temperature-controlled and pressurized.
- American Airlines: Dogs over the cabin weight limit can be checked as baggage on flights where the weather permits.
- Delta: Offers a similar option for larger pets to travel in the cargo hold.
Cost: Typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the airline and destination.
2. Pet Cargo
For even larger dogs or breeds not allowed in the cabin, some airlines offer the option to ship pets as cargo. This is a separate service from checked baggage and is often used for international flights or large breeds.
- United Airlines PetSafe Program: United offers a specialized pet cargo service that allows large dogs to fly in a separate, pressurized, and climate-controlled compartment.
Things to Consider Before Flying with Your Dog
- Health and Safety: Flying can be stressful for dogs, especially if they’re placed in the cargo hold. Before booking a flight, make sure your dog is healthy enough to travel, and consult with your vet.
- Breed Restrictions: Some airlines have restrictions on certain breeds (such as brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs) due to their increased health risks during air travel.
- Preparation: Make sure you have an airline-approved pet carrier and are aware of all the necessary paperwork, such as vaccination records and health certificates, required for your destination.
In Conclusion: Can You Buy a Seat for Your Dog?
No, you can’t purchase a separate seat for your dog on most airlines, but small dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin with you as long as they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. For larger dogs, your options are checking them as baggage or using a pet cargo service.
Flying with your dog is possible, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your dog’s comfort, health, and safety. Always check with your airline for specific policies and fees before booking your trip.
Do you fly with your dog? Share your experience or tips in the comments below!
