What to Consider When Traveling with Pets on Airplanes

Looking to bring your pet with you on your next trip? It’s not as easy as it sounds! You will need to meet a few requirements before being able to bring your pet with you on your trip. We’ve had several customers get to the airport with their pet only to be denied because they were not aware of what needed to be done in advance.

Some of the key things to consider are:

  • The age of your pet
  • The size of your pet
  • The breed
  • Health restrictions
  • Where you are traveling

traveling with pets logan airport dependable limoAge Restrictions

The first requirement you should know is that you can only check in up to 2 pets. All pets that are traveling must be at least 8 weeks old and there is a limited amount of space airlines save for pets. You should contact the airline at least 2 days before your trip to let them know you will be bringing a pet with you. Arrive at the airport early to allow extra check-in time as you will usually need to complete a checklist with an agent from the airline.

Size Restrictions

Depending on the size of your pet, you may be able to bring your pet on the airplane as a carry-on bag. They will need to be in a kennel under the seat in front of you for your entire flight. The maximum allowed size of the kennel is 19in X 13in X 9in and your pet must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in the kennel. If your pet is too large for a small kennel then you will need to check them into the airline as a checked bag. The fees for bringing pets varies by airline, but the charges are typically around $125 for carry-on kennels and $200 for checked-in kennels.

Breed Restrictions

Some airlines have restrictions on the breeds of cats and dogs. American Airlines does not allow brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs on their flights such as Boston Terriers, Pit Bulls, Mastiffs, or Pugs. There are similar restrictions with cat breeds so be sure to check with your airline before traveling with pets. View the full list of American Airlines prohibited breeds here.

Health Restrictions

Within 10 days of your trip you will need to get a health certificate from a veterinarian that certifies your pet is healthy enough to fly. Before your flight you will need to certify that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours of the flight and provide feeding and watering instructions.

Destination Restrictions

The last thing to consider is where you are traveling. Some destinations prohibit passengers from traveling with pets so you should check with the airline in advance to avoid any potential issues. There are also limits on how long of a flight your pet can be onboard so destinations too far away are not allowed. Lastly, the temperature of your destination can affect whether you can bring your pet with you. If the temperature is too hot or too cold you may not be able to check in your pet to the airline.

We hope this list of things to consider has clarified any questions you may have about traveling with pets! Looking for more tips? Feel free to read more about our tips for getting through security faster at Logan Airport. We always welcome customers to bring their pets in our cars and are happy to provide airport transportation for you and your pets. Contact us for a quote!