Airline Pet Policies Compared

Delta allows small dogs and cats in the cabin on most domestic flights within the US and select international routes. The pet must remain in an FAA-approved carrier under the seat for the entire flight. Delta Cargo offers a separate program for larger pets, with temperature-controlled holds and dedicated pet shipping specialists.

United accepts small dogs and cats in the cabin on most US domestic flights for a $125 fee each way. The carrier must fit entirely under the seat and the pet must remain inside for the duration of the flight. United PetSafe is the cargo program for larger animals, but breed restrictions apply, especially for brachycephalic breeds.

American Airlines allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on most US domestic flights for a $125 carry-on pet fee each way. The pet carrier counts as your carry-on bag and must fit under the seat in front of you. American Airlines Cargo handles larger pets, though many international routes have embargoes.

Southwest Airlines is cabin-only for pets, accepting small vaccinated dogs and cats on all domestic flights for a $125 fee each way. There is no cargo or checked baggage option, so larger pets cannot fly on Southwest. Carriers must fit under the seat, and reservations are highly recommended as space is limited to 6 pets per flight.

Alaska Airlines offers the most flexible pet travel policy among major US carriers, with cabin, checked baggage, and cargo options available. Dogs and cats can fly in-cabin for $100 each way or travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment on most Alaska flights. Only Alaska allows pets in checked baggage among major US airlines, making it a top choice for medium-sized pets.

JetBlue accepts small dogs and cats in the cabin only, with no cargo or checked baggage option available. The combined weight of pet and carrier must stay under 20 lbs, and the carrier must fit under the seat for the entire flight. JetBlue awards TrueBlue points for pet travel and limits the total number of pets to 6 per flight.