Top 10 Best Airlines to Fly with Your Dog in 2024
Traveling with your dog can be a heartwarming experience, but ensuring a smooth journey requires selecting an airline that caters to pet-friendly policies. Whether it’s for a vacation or a relocation, choosing the right airline can significantly reduce stress for both you and your furry friend. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top 10 best airlines to fly with your dog in 2024, covering everything from in-cabin options to cargo services and the most accommodating pet policies.
Let’s dive into the world of pet-friendly airlines that prioritize comfort, safety, and convenience for you and your beloved dog.
1. Delta Airlines
Why Delta Airlines? Delta Airlines has earned its reputation as one of the top pet-friendly airlines by offering several flexible options for travelers flying with dogs. With Delta, small dogs can fly in-cabin, and larger breeds can be shipped as cargo.
- In-cabin Pet Travel: Delta allows small dogs to travel with you in the cabin, as long as the combined weight of your pet and carrier does not exceed 20 lbs (9 kg). Pets must fit comfortably in a small, ventilated pet carrier that can fit under the seat.
- Cargo Pet Travel: For larger dogs, Delta Cargo ensures a safe journey with climate-controlled cabins and real-time tracking, giving pet owners peace of mind.
Fees: In-cabin pet fees start at $125 one-way for domestic flights.
2. American Airlines
Why American Airlines? American Airlines has a long history of accommodating pet owners. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, this airline provides excellent options for canine passengers.
- In-cabin Travel: Dogs weighing up to 20 lbs (carrier included) are permitted in the cabin. Pets should remain inside their carrier throughout the flight, ensuring safety and comfort.
- Checked Pets Program: For medium and large dogs, the airline offers the “checked pets” program, where your dog can fly in the cargo hold. While not available for every aircraft, it’s a reliable option for many.
Fees: Expect to pay $125 for in-cabin travel and between $200-$350 for checked pets.
3. Alaska Airlines
Why Alaska Airlines? Alaska Airlines is known for being particularly accommodating to pet owners. With clear guidelines and attentive staff, flying with dogs is made easy, no matter the size of your pet.
- In-cabin Travel: Small dogs (under 20 lbs) can travel in the cabin. Alaska Airlines also allows you to carry up to two pets in a single carrier, provided they can comfortably fit.
- Pet Connect Cargo: For larger dogs, Alaska’s Pet Connect cargo service ensures they travel safely in climate-controlled cargo holds.
Fees: Alaska Airlines charges $100 for in-cabin pets, one of the more affordable fees in the industry.
4. JetBlue Airways
Why JetBlue? JetBlue has been at the forefront of pet-friendly air travel, with their “JetPaws” program designed specifically for pet owners. The airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends to their four-legged passengers.
- In-cabin Travel: JetBlue allows small dogs to fly in-cabin, with a weight limit of 20 lbs including the carrier. Each passenger can bring one pet per flight.
- JetPaws Program: This program provides pet travel perks, including a pet travel guide, extra loyalty points, and a special tag for your pet’s carrier.
Fees: In-cabin travel comes with a $125 fee, but JetBlue provides extra benefits for loyal customers and their pets.
5. Southwest Airlines
Why Southwest Airlines? Southwest Airlines offers an affordable and reliable service for passengers traveling with pets. While the airline does not allow pets in the cargo hold, it’s perfect for travelers with small dogs.
- In-cabin Travel: Southwest allows small dogs to fly in-cabin with their owners. Pets must stay inside an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
Fees: At $95 per pet each way, Southwest provides one of the lowest fees for in-cabin pet travel among U.S. airlines.
6. Air Canada
Why Air Canada? For those flying to or from Canada, Air Canada offers an excellent pet-friendly experience with flexible in-cabin and cargo options.
- In-cabin Travel: Small dogs can travel in-cabin, with weight limits of up to 22 lbs (10 kg) including the carrier.
- Cargo Travel: For larger breeds, Air Canada Cargo offers temperature-controlled environments to ensure your dog’s safety during the flight.
Fees: Expect to pay around $50 to $100 for in-cabin travel, depending on the route, and between $270 and $500 for cargo services.
7. Lufthansa Airlines
Why Lufthansa? Lufthansa is known for being one of the most pet-friendly international airlines, making it a great choice for long-haul flights with your dog.
- In-cabin Travel: Small dogs (up to 17 lbs) can accompany you in the cabin on most flights. Lufthansa allows you to travel with two pets if they are small enough to fit into one carrier.
- Cargo Travel: For larger dogs, Lufthansa offers climate-controlled cargo options and has special teams that handle pets on long flights.
Fees: In-cabin fees start at $60, while cargo fees vary depending on the size and destination, usually between $250 and $600.
8. United Airlines
Why United Airlines? United Airlines offers comprehensive pet travel options under their “PetSafe” program, making them one of the top airlines for those with medium or large dogs.
- In-cabin Travel: Small dogs (under 20 lbs) can travel in the cabin. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, and the dog must remain inside the carrier throughout the flight.
- PetSafe Program: Larger dogs can travel in cargo with climate-controlled services, ensuring the safety and comfort of your pet throughout the journey.
Fees: In-cabin travel costs $125, while PetSafe prices vary based on destination and size, typically ranging from $200 to $500.
9. Hawaiian Airlines
Why Hawaiian Airlines? If you’re planning a trip to or from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines is the best airline for traveling with dogs. They have unique pet-friendly policies tailored to the specific needs of their routes.
- In-cabin Travel: Small dogs are allowed in the cabin on inter-island and select mainland routes. The dog must remain in its carrier for the duration of the flight.
- Cargo Travel: Larger dogs can travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold, but special conditions apply for the safety of pets flying long distances to and from the islands.
Fees: Hawaiian Airlines charges $35 for in-cabin pets on inter-island flights and $175 for mainland routes.
10. British Airways
Why British Airways? For international travelers, British Airways offers one of the most comfortable and secure ways to fly with a dog, particularly for those with large breeds.
- Cargo Travel Only: British Airways does not allow pets in the cabin, but their world-class cargo facilities ensure your dog’s safety. The airline has strict procedures to make sure pets are well-cared for throughout the flight, especially on long-haul trips.
Fees: Cargo fees are higher than some airlines, generally ranging from $300 to $800 depending on the destination.
FAQs: Traveling with Your Dog on an Airline
1. Can my dog fly in-cabin with me? Yes, many airlines allow small dogs (typically under 20 lbs) to fly in-cabin as long as they remain in a carrier under the seat. Each airline has its own specific guidelines and fees.
2. What size dog can fly as cargo? For larger dogs that exceed the cabin size limit, most airlines offer cargo travel. Dogs are transported in climate-controlled sections of the aircraft to ensure their safety.
3. Is it safe for my dog to travel in the cargo hold? Yes, most airlines that offer pet cargo services have strict protocols, including temperature regulation and monitoring, to ensure your dog’s comfort and safety.
4. What documents are required for traveling with a dog? Typically, airlines require a health certificate from your vet, proof of rabies vaccination, and sometimes additional documentation for international travel, such as import permits.
5. Are there restrictions on certain breeds? Yes, some airlines have breed restrictions, particularly for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, due to their breathing issues in certain conditions.
6. How much does it cost to fly with a dog? In-cabin pet fees range from $50 to $200 depending on the airline. Cargo costs are higher and vary based on your dog’s size and the destination, often between $200 and $800.
When planning your next trip, consider these top 10 best airlines to fly with your dog. Ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort will lead to a smoother and more enjoyable journey for you both. From in-cabin comfort to cargo hold care, these airlines offer some of the best pet travel experiences.
