How to Travel With Pets on American Airlines
- 1). Determine whether you are eligible to fly with your pets on American Airlines: dogs and cats are the only animals accepted on American Airlines (both in-cabin and as cargo). A pet interview is not required; however, the airline reserves the right to reject any dog or cat that it deems aggressive or dangerous at the time of check-in.
- 2). Ensure that pets are allowed on the flight. If you are going to Hawaii, Central America, South America or are taking a transatlantic or transpacific flight, your pet is not allowed as a carry-on.
- 3). Plan your trip far enough ahead of time, so you can book your airline ticket early, especially if you plan on having your dog or cat in the cabin with you. Because only seven pets are allowed in the cabin at a time, you must make a reservation to ensure your dog or cat has a space on the flight.
- 4). Make sure your pet’s carrier meets American Airline’s standards. According to American Airlines, the carrier can be no bigger than 23 inches long, 13 inches wide and nine inches high, and your dog or cat must be able to lie, stand and turn around comfortably in the carrier.
- 5). Check in at the American Airlines counter. Both you and your pet are required to check in when you arrive at the airport.
- 6). If you bring your pet into the cabin, keep it securely in its carrier, at all times before, during and after the flight.
