Not every airline deserves your pet’s paw print.
Flying with a furry companion can be heartwarming—or a total nightmare. From confusing rules to eye-watering fees, some airlines make pet travel feel like a high-stakes gamble. Others? They actually make it easy.
You want clear policies, calm cabins, and crew members who don’t panic at the sight of a carrier. Bonus points for onboard treats and pet-loving seatmates.
This guide rounds up the six airlines that get it right—and the four that’ll leave you wishing you’d stayed on the ground. If your travel plans include a tail-wagging passenger, read this before you book.
Alaska Airlines
Known for its friendly skies, Alaska Airlines is a top choice for pet owners. They allow small pets in-cabin for a reasonable fee and offer climate-controlled cargo for larger animals.
Uniquely, they accommodate not just dogs and cats but also rabbits and birds, making them a versatile option. Their clear policies and consistent customer service make traveling with pets less stressful. Frequent travelers praise their attention to pet safety and comfort.
Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, Alaska Airlines ensures a pleasant journey for all aboard.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines offers a seamless experience for pet owners with its dedicated pet travel desk. Cats, dogs, and even household birds can join their owners in-cabin on most domestic flights, ensuring pets are always nearby.
Their detailed guidelines eliminate confusion, and the staff is trained to handle pet-related inquiries effectively.
Delta’s commitment to service ensures pets travel in comfort and safety. Known for innovation, Delta continues to improve its pet services, making it a reliable choice for travelers with pets.
American Airlines
American Airlines offers flexibility for pet travel, accommodating both in-cabin and cargo options. Their expansive airport network and understanding of international pet travel regulations make them a preferred airline for global travelers.
Pets are treated with care, and their policies are designed to minimize travel-related stress. Reviews frequently commend their excellent service, particularly on international routes.
American Airlines stands out for its adaptability and commitment to pet-inclusive travel, offering peace of mind to pet owners worldwide.
Southwest Airlines
Famous for its budget-friendly fares, Southwest Airlines also offers one of the most affordable pet travel fees.
Their straightforward in-cabin policy is ideal for owners of small cats and dogs looking for a hassle-free flying experience. While they don’t offer cargo options, their service quality is consistently praised.
Passengers appreciate the airline’s transparent rules and friendly staff, making it an excellent choice for short domestic trips. The predictable and affordable pricing makes Southwest a favorite among pet lovers.
JetBlue
JetBlue’s ‘JetPaws’ program elevates pet travel, offering excellent support materials and rewards for frequent flyers with pets.
The airline allows small pets in-cabin, providing generous space and attentive service. Their thoughtful approach to pet comfort is well-regarded, and the program’s perks make travel rewarding for pet owners. With a pet-friendly attitude, JetBlue ensures that every journey is a positive experience.
The airline’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is reflected in its consistent positive reviews.
Air Canada
International travelers often choose Air Canada for its comprehensive pet travel policies. Small pets are welcome in-cabin, while larger ones can travel in the baggage hold, both options ensuring safety and comfort.
The airline’s policies are transparent, and their commitment to pet-friendly travel is echoed in numerous positive reviews. Pet owners appreciate the peace of mind Air Canada provides, especially when crossing borders.
Their expertise in international travel is unmatched, making them a favored choice for pet owners worldwide.
Spirit Airlines
Although Spirit Airlines allows pets in-cabin, customer feedback often highlights issues with service consistency.
Restrictions on carrier size and lack of a cargo option limit flexibility for travelers. Passengers often mention challenges in policy enforcement and a lack of support for pet-related concerns. Many pet owners find the experience unpredictable, and the airline’s reputation among pet travelers is varied.
While it offers a budget option, the potential for complications might dissuade some pet owners from choosing Spirit Airlines.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines provides basic in-cabin options for small pets, but their customer service often falls short.
Reports of inadequate support for pet issues are common, and the absence of cargo options limits flexibility. Pet policies, though clear, are sometimes inconsistently applied, leading to passenger frustration.
For travelers seeking a reliable pet-friendly experience, these inconsistencies might be a concern. While their pricing is competitive, the lack of comprehensive pet support may lead travelers to consider alternatives.
United Airlines
United Airlines has struggled with its pet travel reputation due to past incidents, despite efforts to improve.
Mishandled animals and cargo-related issues have left lasting concerns. The airline has implemented changes, yet trust issues persist among pet owners. Confusing policies and previous scrutiny affect their standing in the pet travel community.
While improvements are ongoing, many travelers remain cautious, preferring airlines with more consistent records. United’s reputation serves as a reminder to review pet travel policies thoroughly before booking.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air’s limited pet travel options can be restrictive for many. Only small pets are allowed in-cabin, and the absence of cargo services narrows choices.
Limited routes and support further complicate pet travel plans. Consistency in staff handling and policy enforcement is often questioned, affecting customer satisfaction. While some travelers appreciate the low cost, the lack of comprehensive pet services makes Allegiant less appealing for pet owners.
For those prioritizing seamless pet travel, alternatives with better support and options are often considered.