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Flying with Pets

If you intend to fly with a pet or service animal, the links below provide information to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable traveling experience.

• Can I take my pet through security?
• I have a service animal; what type of screening should I expect?
• Traveling with Animals
• Traveling with Pets (USDA)

Everything to Know About Flying with a Dog 

By Matt Meltzer , Katherine LaGrave , and Sarah Kuta

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If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably considered flying with a dog. While it might seem like the best option to keep your furry friend with you on all of your travels—not to mention more appealing than organizing dog-sitting or a stay at a boarding facility—it’s far from a straightforward decision.

Flying with a dog for the first time can be stressful and overwhelming for both you and your pet. There are many details to figure out: What are your airline’s specific rules for non-service pets? How much does bringing along a dog cost? Is your dog’s breed allowed in the plane cabin? Do you have the right equipment and pet carrier? And—above all else—is flying safe and comfortable for your pet?

There’s so much to consider before you take the plunge and show up at the airport to board a plane with your dog. However, traveling with your dog is certainly possible with the right research to inform your decision.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything you need to think about before flying with a dog, from airlines’ different policies and the required paperwork, to how to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible throughout all legs of the journey.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you read them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

First, you’ll need to check with your airline to see what type of breeds they allow in the cabin or the cargo hold. Often, certain types of dog breeds are barred from flying in one place or another. For instance, brachycephalic dog breeds with short or snubbed noses (like French bulldogs and pugs) usually can’t fly in the  hold due to breathing issues. Most larger dogs aren’t allowed in the cabin (with exceptions for trained service animals) and will have to fly in the cargo hold. Many air carriers have completely banned specific breeds—like pit bulls—from flying at all.

Always book flight reservations for you and your pet at the same time: Most airlines only allow a handful of pets per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane and whether it is a domestic or international flight .

Be sure to call and make there’s still room for your pet. You might also have limited seating options when flying with a dog. Airlines usually do not allow passengers flying with dogs to sit in bulkhead rows, business or first-class cabins with lie-flat beds , or emergency exit rows. Also keep in mind that airlines will not accept pets on the plane if temperatures are forecasted to be too hot or too cold at any destination along the route. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, so if this happens, you’ll have to scramble to make other plans.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

Think about it: Flying removes pets from the surroundings they are most comfortable and familiar with, then forces them into a situation with loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited access to places where they can use the bathroom. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also away from you, their favorite person, in a scary environment.

In addition, consider whether your dog will be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. “If the destination is somewhere where the pup will be alone inside all day, boarding or hiring a dog sitter may be better options to consider rather than subjecting the pet to the stress of flying,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart.

With all of that in mind, it’s probably best to leave your dog at home unless you have a pressing reason to bring them on the plane with you. Even though this might feel disappointing, it’s likely a decision that will be better for your dog in the long run. If you do decide to leave your dog behind, you can hire a dog-sitter, have a reliable friend or family member look after them, or book a stay in a reputable boarding facility.

Another option could be road-tripping to your destination instead of flying. But that would depend on whether your dog handles car travel well and if your destination is within a reasonable driving distance.

Bottom line: Before you book a trip, think long and hard about whether it’s essential to bring your dog along for the journey. “In general, I recommend not flying with a pet unless absolutely necessary,” says Justine Lee, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance . “Ideally, pets should not fly unless an owner is moving permanently or taking a long trip—two to four weeks minimum.”

And if you do decide to proceed with flying with a dog, consult with your vet about food, water, exercise, and medication ahead of time. Experts are divided on whether travelers with pets should sedate or tranquilize their dogs before a flight (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with an expert who is familiar with you and your animal. Also know that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong. If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather destinations, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so high; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules , you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin.

Meaghan Kenny

Mercedes Bleth

Hannah Summers

Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet. Dogs must still fly in a carrier and fit under the seat to be stowed for taxi, takeoff, and landing (on Etihad, carriers can take up more space if being used with an additional seat); outside of those flight phases, passengers are generally allowed to put the dog carrier on their lap or in the seat next to them that they purchased.

Unfortunately, larger dogs (with exceptions for trained service animals) have to travel in the cargo hold, along with all the luggage and freight. Most airlines describe this as “shipping” your pet. (Yikes.)

While airlines say they try their best to make dogs comfortable in the cargo hold, it’s bound to be an unpleasant experience for your pet nonetheless (and that’s likely an understatement). Plenty of animals fly in cargo every year without incident, but travelers have also shared horror stories about their pets being injured, becoming very sick, or even dying.

Are the potential risks of “shipping” your dog in the cargo hold worth the benefits? It’s something to seriously consider. Additionally, once you check in your dog for the flight, they are completely in the hands of airline personnel until you get to your destination. Your dog will be loaded by baggage handlers who are trying to get all of the luggage and other items onto the plane in an efficient manner. Although they may love pets, they’re not there to pay special attention to your dog. “There are many situations that are beyond your control when your pet flies in cargo,” says Bruns. “Putting your dog in cargo, even on a pet-friendly airline, can be a very risky situation.”

What are the rules for flying with a dog?

The rules for traveling with your dog will vary widely based on your airline, where you’re traveling, and what type of dog you have. Always do research in advance of every trip—even if it’s not your first time flying with a dog—to ensure you have all of the latest information and regulations. If your dog is a trained service animal, then a totally different set of regulations will apply. Look at airlines’ websites carefully to be sure you’re reading the correct information you need. You can also try calling an airline customer service line to get more detail on their specific rules. Here are the pet travel pages for Delta , American Airlines , United , JetBlue , Southwest , and Alaska Airways .

Airlines typically require a health certificate —issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you’ll need it for both your departure and return. (Many airlines require that your dog's clean bill of health be no more than 10 days old.) If the duration of your trip is longer than your certificate will be valid for, you’ll also have to schedule a vet visit while on your trip to meet the return flight requirements. Dogs must also typically be at least eight weeks old to fly, says Bruns.

You’ll typically pay between $95 to $125 each way for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, though the pet fee varies by airline. The cost of shipping your pet in the cargo hold depends on the combined weight of your dog and their crate, as well as how far they’ll be flying—most airlines offer online calculators for getting an estimate.

Wherever your pet will spend the flight, airlines typically require an appropriate pet carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association, whose guidelines most airlines follow, has a list of pet carrier requirements (we've also rounded up our favorite airline-approved pet carriers) .

Generally speaking, the crate needs to be durable and have plenty of ventilation, strong handles, and a leak-proof bottom. Clearly mark the pet carrier with the words “Live Animal” and arrows that show which way is up, with a label containing your name, phone number, address, and destination contact information.

Another important thing to research? Local animal import laws for each airport you’ll be stopping at along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or somewhere like Hawaii , which has strict customs rules. Many places have painfully complicated processes and long quarantine periods—which could mean you'd be separated from your pet for most or all of your trip.

Some destinations do not allow pets to fly in the cabin, even if your dog is small enough to be a carry-on; there are even some countries and states that prohibit pets from flying to, from, or through on a connection, period. Others have specific requirements that may take a while to coordinate, so it’s best to start your trip-planning process extra early if you want to bring your dog. “Some countries require testing and treatment for disease months in advance of travel, so timing is of the utmost importance,” says Bruns.

Also note there are currently special requirements for dogs traveling to the U.S. from a country the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems high risk for rabies . For example, dogs who have been vaccinated against rabies in the U.S. by a U.S.-licensed veterinarian may return from a high-risk country if they have proof of rabies vaccination and a microchip; are at least six months old; are healthy upon arrival; and arrive at one of 18 specific airports with CDC quarantine facilities.

Before your trip, thoroughly research the departing and arrival airports, paying close attention to any pet relief areas. Familiarize your dog with their crate well in advance of your trip so they are comfortable spending long periods of time inside it. You might even consider taking your dog to the airport’s departure area a few times so they become slightly more familiar with this strange place. “Every time I fly with my dog, I look at the terminal map—both the one I'm leaving from and the one I'm landing at—to see if there is a pet relief area,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover . “This way, if my flight is delayed, I can give him another chance to go. And as soon as we land, I know where to head.”

Flying with a dog: Day-of travel

On travel day, be sure to get to the airport extra early so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. If your pet is flying cargo, most airlines require you to arrive at least three hours before departure for domestic flights and at least five hours before international flights. You’ll likely need to take your pet to a separate cargo drop-off location at the airport. These are usually special hangars on the outskirts of the airport property. Your airline should have a list of locations and hours of operation of the facilities at each airport. This is also where you’ll pick up your pet after the flight, too, so review your departure and arrival airport maps ahead of time to know where to go.

If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, go to the passenger check-in desk, where an agent will ask to see all of your dog’s required paperwork. Once you’ve got the all-clear and paid the pet carry-on fee, you’ll head to security. Deal with your shoes, liquids, laptop, and other items before tending to your dog. Then, remove the dog from the kennel and place it on the conveyor belt; it needs to go through the X-ray machine. Place a leash on your dog in the security line until it’s your turn to go through the metal detector. When it’s your turn to be scanned, TSA says to remove your dog’s leash and collar (so they don’t set off the alarm) and carry your dog through the metal detector.

You’ll also want to read up on the TSA’s rules around dog food , especially if you want to bring a little wet food in your carry-on bag. The agency considers both dry and moist dog food as solid food, and therefore they allow it in carry-on bags. As with all food items , however, a security officer may ask you to remove the food from your bag to get a clearer picture of the other contents in your carry-on.

If the dog is flying as cargo, make sure to attach a current photo of her to the outside of the carrier, as well as a small bag of food so airline personnel can feed it in case of a long delay . Keep a current photo of your dog handy on your phone, too, in case the airline accidentally “misplaces” your pet—it's not likely, but it’s better to be prepared. (Getting your pet microchipped can also help in the event that your pet gets lost.)

Once you touch down at your destination, grab your checked baggage (or, to speed things up while traveling with dogs, only bring a carry-on ) and head straight to the airline’s cargo location. Dogs who fly cargo are typically available two hours after the flight’s arrival, and you must pick them up within four hours or airline staffers will take them to a veterinarian or boarding facility.

Whether your pet flew in cargo or the cabin, take your dog for a walk right away and be sure to give them lots of praise, cuddles, treats, toys, or whatever other positive reinforcement rewards they prefer. (If you're flying with a dog in the cabin and have a layover, stretch your legs—and your pup's—at a pet relief area in the airport .) Though the journey can be complicated, you'll breathe easier once you've both arrived safe and sound.

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Flying With Dogs or Cats? These Are Airlines’ Pet Policies

American recently relaxed its rules for pets traveling inside the cabin with their owners. Here’s what the major U.S. airlines require to travel with a pet.

By Jesus Jiménez

Flying with a pet can be expensive and confusing, with fees, weight limits, carrier size rules and the need to make sure there’s no loud barking (or meowing) on board.

Recently, American Airlines relaxed its pet policy to allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag in addition to a pet in a carrier, and more private flight options have been emerging in recent years for pet owners who can afford them.

Still, flying with large or medium-size dogs can be tricky, and many travelers are wary of leaving a pet in the plane’s cargo hold.

For those traveling on the major carriers with their pets as carry-ons, here’s what to know about each major domestic airline’s policy.

Southwest Airlines

On Southwest, a Dallas-based carrier, two checked bags can fly at no cost, but not pets. Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier on its flights.

Dogs or cats are allowed to travel below a seat in an approved carrier — up to 18.5 inches long by 8.5 inches high and 13.5 inches wide — according to the airline .

Southwest has a few caveats for those traveling with pets: The pet must stay in its carrier during the flight, and the carrier is considered a personal item or carry-on bag.

Up to six pets are allowed on Southwest flights. Once six pets are booked onto a flight, no further customers may add a pet companion to their booking.

United Airlines

United Airlines has no weight or breed restrictions for cats and dogs as long as they are in an approved hard or soft-sided carrier, measuring 17.5 inches long by 9 inches tall and 12 inches wide for a hard carrier, or 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide for a soft carrier.

United charges $125 each way for travel with pets. There is no fee for service animals on United flights, but some forms are required before the flight.

The carrier must fit under a seat, and where a passenger is allowed to sit can vary according to the type of aircraft. For example, people traveling with pets cannot sit in emergency rows. If you’re traveling with two pets (the maximum allotted), you are required to book two seats.

Delta Air Lines

Small dogs and cats can travel on Delta Air Lines flights as long as they can fit inside a carrier stored below the seat. The size of the carrier depends on the aircraft, but in general the airline recommends a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and small enough to have some room to move around in the carrier, which must have ventilation openings on three sides.

Delta charges $95 for pets traveling as carry-on companions, and the passenger can bring only one personal item along with the pet. Certain seats cannot be booked for travel with an animal, such as those in an emergency exit row.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in a carry-on container, which must remain under the seat in front of the pet owner throughout the flight. The airline recommends a soft-sided carrier that measures 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

The fee for a carry-on pet on a domestic American Airlines flight is $150.

Flights are limited to seven carry-on pets, not including service animals, and American Eagle flights are limited to five carry-on pets, with one in first class. There is no charge for service animals flying on American flight, but the airline requires forms to be filled out in advance.

The airline said in a statement that it had recently changed its cabin pet policy to allow customers with a pet to also bring either a personal item or carry-on bag stowed in the overhead bin (but not both).

“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American,” the airline said.

Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier and Alaska

Spirit allows dogs and cats on its flights in a carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide and 9 inches tall for a fee of $125. The weight of the pet and the carrier cannot exceed 40 pounds, according to the airline .

Small dogs and cats can fly on JetBlue for fee of $125 each way , in an approved carrier. Up to six pets are allowed on JetBlue flights.

Frontier allows pets on board for a $99 fee each way, as long the pet fits in a carrier. Passengers can have only a personal item or carry-on in addition to their pet carrier.

Pets can travel in a carrier on Alaska Airlines flights for a fee of $100 each way. A passenger can travel with a pet carrier and a personal item, or a carrier and a carry-on bag.

Private or charter flights

Those who take their pets on private or charter flights, which can cost many thousands of dollars, have much more leeway. Dogs that weigh less than 150 pounds can sit on seats.

BarkAir, a charter operator tailored specifically for those flying with dogs, charges about $6,000 for a dog and its owner to travel, with flights between New York and Los Angeles and New York and London. Carriers are not required, and dogs can sit on laps, seats or beds.

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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International & Connection Pet Travel

* For aircraft that have only one class cabin, a maximum of 4 kennels per aircraft is allowed. **Live animals are prohibited on all flights operating outside of the U.S. except Canada. To make sure your pet is taken care of, prior arrangements are necessary with all the carriers involved. If a pet has to transfer from a Delta flight to a Delta Connection, the Delta flight must be confirmed at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time of the Delta Connection flight. That way we have enough time to make transfer arrangements between the two carriers and ensure your pet is safely delivered. Find More Information on Shipping Your Pet  »

Pets to Hawaii

Though Hawaii is part of the United States, Hawaii takes extra care when bringing live animals into the state due to its unique ecosystems. Hawaii requires that all live animals shipped or brought into the state have health and rabies inoculation certificates dated no more than 10 days before travel begins. On Delta flights to Hawaii, pets will not be accepted as carry-on baggage.

Please note, Hawaiian quarantine facilities are located in Honolulu only; therefore, Delta cannot accept pets on nonstop flights to any other Hawaiian city. Delta does not participate in the Neighbor Island Dog and Cat Entry Program. Also as of October 1, 2016, Delta and Delta Cargo will no longer accept warm blooded animals on flights with an average flight time of greater than 12 hours. 

Hawaii Quarantines

All cats and dogs are subject to a 120-day quarantine in Hawaii. If specific pre- and post-arrival requirements are met, your pet may qualify for a shorter (30-days or less) quarantine. Costs are charged to the pet owner and must be paid in full upon arrival. Payment methods include cashier's check, traveler's check, money order, personal check, or cash.

Seeing-eye dogs (and other service animals) are accepted with certain provisions, including making advanced arrangements and verifying availability and cost. For further information, visit the Hawaii Department of Agriculture or call 808-483-7151 .

International Pet Travel

If you’re traveling internationally with your pet, be prepared by knowing the strict regulations governing international pet travel. Remember to make arrangements in advance and note that Delta and Delta Cargo  have a temporary embargo on all pet shipments effective until further notice. The embargo applies to all live, household animals (small dogs, cats and household birds) transported in the cargo hold underneath the aircraft throughout the domestic and international network. Exceptions apply for customers traveling with service animals and those in the U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Offices .

Take these steps before traveling to be fully prepared:

• Contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country to determine pet travel regulations
• Obtain all necessary paperwork (such as health certificates and documentation ) regarding your pet's travel
• Contact your local veterinarian to ensure your pet is in compliance with foreign health regulations
• Check with the CDC about the importation of pets into the United States
• Check with APHIS about international animal export regulations
• Terminal handling charges, customs clearance fees, veterinarian service, and/or kennel storage fees are in addition to shipping rates and will be charged to the shipper or pet owner upon arrival at destination airport
• All fees and charges must be paid in full prior to the release of your pet

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a temporary ban on dogs traveling from Egypt for the protection of public health.  The CDC will review this suspension periodically and Delta will provide updates as they become available.  To ensure the protection and safety of our customers and their animals, Delta will place a temporary embargo on pet travel to and from Egypt.

When traveling to or from the United Kingdom, Delta will not accept any live animals as checked or carry-on baggage. 

For pets traveling in the cabin to the Republic of Ireland, customers must notify the Department of Agriculture in advance at [email protected] , opens in a new window . Find additional information at the Republic of Ireland Pet Travel Portal .

For pets traveling to or from other countries in the European Union, a Veterinary Certificate for domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets entering the European Community for Non-Commercial Movement (Regulation (EC) No. 998/2003) is required. There is also another restriction concerning your pet. Only a microchip implant, and no longer tattoos, will be accepted as a means of identification. If your travel originates in Aruba, Bermuda, Canada, Japan, Cayman Islands, or the USA, parts 1 through 4 must be completed for movement into the European Union and requires 30 days of preparation for your pet. If your travel originates in any other country, parts 1 through 5 must be completed. These regulations require a minimum of four months preparation for your pet.

Service Dogs Traveling to London (Heathrow & Gatwick) or Manchester

Delta will transport service dogs to London (Heathrow & Gatwick) and Manchester with the proper documentation and compliance to the UK regulations for transporting animals.  In order for a customer to transport their service dog, they must:

• Contact the appropriate Animal Reception Center in the city they are traveling to for more information and instruction on what will be needed to enter the United Kingdom.  After booking, customers must contact the Animal Reception Center directly to plan for the arrival of their pet and to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed in advance for the UK Customs clearance of your service dog.
• Provide a pre-approval letter from the Animal Reception Center in the city you are traveling to, indicating that your service dog has the appropriate documentation, has met the appropriate health requirements and has the proper micro-chip implant.  Delta will ask for this documentation in order to process your request for transport of your service dog.  Failure to present this pre-approval letter will result in denial of the service dog until the letter is provided.
• Pay all appropriate fees and charges related to UK acceptance of service dogs. A current list of charges can be provided by the Animal Reception Center for the city you are traveling to.  For more information, please contact one of the appropriate Animal Reception Centers listed below.

For questions regarding transporting a service dog, please contact Delta at 1-800-221-1212 and ask to speak to the CRO Desk.

CRO Desk at Airport

Pets are not allowed in the cabin or as accompanied or excess baggage to/from Hong Kong. Special permit/import permit or quarantine permit is required for all animals and birds (including dogs & cats) applied before arrival in Hong Kong and they must be shipped as cargo covered by an air bill.

Pets are not allowed as checked baggage to or from South Africa due to concerns of animal safety and customs regulations. This restriction does not apply to service animals. South Africa recognizes service dogs and allows them in the cabin. All animals must travel as manifested cargo on an air waybill. Military exceptions do not apply.

Australian law does not allow pets as carry on or checked baggage. The only exception is for Service Animals   with correct documentation. All pets must enter or depart via cargo.

New Zealand law does not allow pets as carry on or checked baggage. The only exception is Service Animals   with correct documentation. All pets must enter or depart via cargo.

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13 of the Most Pet-Friendly Airlines: Stress-Free Flying with Your Dog!

WRITTEN BY:

Kelsey Leicht

January 5, 2023

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Flying with your dog can be as daunting as it is exciting. From veterinary health clearances to carrier requirements, your to-do list may feel endless, especially given the differences between the rules of different airlines.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! 

We’ve fetched the basic requirements for traveling with your dog on all of the major U.S. airlines, and highlighted our favorite features. Check out the best pet-friendly airlines and some tips for flying with your pup below.

Quick Picks: Best Pet-Friendly Airlines

• JSX Airlines [Best for Traveling In-Cabin] JSX airlines offer public charter flights that come with a hefiter price tag, but even 60lb dogs can fly in the cabin right at your feet .
• American Airlines [Best Pet-Friendly Major Airline] This airline’s vast coverage area and reasonable fees make it a top-tier pick for those traveling with pooch passengers.
• Allegiant [Most Affordable Pet-Friendly Airline] Protect your travel budget by booking with this low-cost canine-friendly carrier offering cabin fees as low as $50.
• Lufthansa [Best for International Travel] Jet off to your next worldwide woofin’ adventure with this German-based carrier allowing cabin travel for small canines.

Pet-Friendly Airline Info: The Basics We’ve Covered

Every airline has its own set of rules for canine travel, but we’ve tackled the basics to give a snapshot of each. Hopefully, this makes narrowing your options a tad easier.

Some of the things we cover below include:

• Flying with your dog in the cabin . Not every airline allows dogs to travel with passengers in the plane’s cabin. Some limit canines to the cargo area only, while others allow for cabin travel if canines meet specific size, behavior, or containment requirements. Typically, well-behaved, small dogs that can be stowed in an airline-approved pet carrier under an airline seat are allowed, though there are also a very few airlines that allow large breeds to travel via cabin too.
• Flying with your dog in the cargo hold . Some airlines allow dogs to travel in the cargo hold. Housed in a carrier that meets strict safety standards, cargo-held canines generally have less strict size requirements than cabin-dwelling doggos, allowing larger breeds to fly. However, current travel trends have made cargo travel hard to come by for dogs.
• Banned breeds . Many airlines ban certain breeds from flying in the cabin or cargo area. This typically includes brachycephalic (short-headed) dogs, though some providers may prohibit other breeds from flying.
• Rules for emotional support animals and service dogs . Previously many airlines allow ESAs to travel differently than everyday pet dogs, but the vast majority of airlines have done away with ESAs on flights. However, per federal law, service dogs are granted access to planes with their handler, regardless of the airlines’ pet policy. Not sure about the difference between service dogs vs ESA dogs – let us explain!
• Pet flying fees . The cost of traveling with your dog varies significantly from airline to airline, with some pet passes costing little more than a checked-bag fee while others can be a few hundred dollars or more. These fees may change according to your dog’s size and travel method too.
• Weight restrictions for flying dogs . Weight restrictions can be a real bite, particularly if you plan to have your pooch travel in the cabin. Cabin weight limits tend to be much lower than cargo limits, but it’s important in both scenarios to weigh your pup and factor in the weight of his travel crate. This eliminates potential airport surprises, as your pooch is weighed in his carrier before boarding. Generally speaking, flying in the cabin won’t be a viable option unless your dog is under 20 lbs.
• Dog crate size for riding in the cabin . Most airlines require kenneled canines to be stowed under an airline if traveling in the cabin, meaning your dog’s crate needs to meet specific size criteria. These sizing guidelines vary from airline to airline, so always double-check the rules, especially if you have connecting flights with different airlines. In addition, your dog should be able to stand, sit, and turn around in his carrier.
• Dog crate size for flying in the cargo hold . Cargo crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements , which include strict size, locking, and ventilation standards. As with cabin carriers, your dog must be able to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably in the kennel.
• Maximum number of pets per person . Most airlines allow one pet per passenger, but some allow two. Sometimes, this means two pets in the same carrier or two pets housed in separate carriers. But just because you can fit two dogs in a carrier, that doesn’t mean you should . Not every dog likes being crammed with a friend while already enduring the stress of travel.
• Maximum number of pets per airplane . Airlines typically limit the number of animals on a flight, which can lead to travel nightmares if you don’t book early. A six-pet limit is most commonly seen, but some have limits as low as two. Yikes!
• Dog age requirements for flying . Like destinations, each airline sets its own rules regarding how old a dog must be to travel. Most of the time, this pertains to puppies, but senior dogs may also face scrutiny, particularly those in poor health.
• Special notes and miscellaneous four-footed flying facts . We’ll note if an airline has any special rules or pet perks. This might include things like special document requirements, restrictions, and more.

While we’re covering the basics in this article, you should still discuss your travel plans with an airline representative to ensure you and your pooch fly without issue. Rules are ever-changing, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

13 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines 

Ready to take off with your terrier? Check out these pet-friendly airlines and see which works best for your woofin’ wanderlust.

1. American Airlines

Straightforward requirements and a wide service area make this airline our #1 pick.

About : American Airlines is a canine-friendly carrier for most people looking to travel with a dog. Not only do they offer service around the U.S and abroad, but they also clearly spell-out their requirements for pets , making flying with your pup easier.

• Cabin-traveling dogs must remain in stowed beneath a seat in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets are not allowed for most international travel or when flying to Hawaii
• American Airlines does not allow dogs that are sedated or tranquilized to fly
• Carry-on pets aren’t allowed in first class or business class if traveling in specific aircraft, including Boeing’s 777-200, 777-300, 787-8, and 787-9
• Dogs in Cargo : Only for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders.
• Checked-in pets must have health certificates dated within 10 days of travel
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic and brachycephalic mixes cannot fly with American Airlines.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel as pets and pay the required fees.
• Fee : Cabin fee is $125 per carrier. For active service members or U.S. State Department personnel, the cargo fee is $200 per kennel regardless of destination, except for Brazil, where the cost is $150 per kennel.
• Weight Limits : Cargo travelers cannot have a weight that exceeds 100 pounds for both the pet and crate. For carry-on canines, the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds if traveling in first class.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions for a hard-sided carrier are 19” x 13” x 9”, while a soft-side carrier can be 18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions vary by aircraft.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : Up to 2 check-in pets (cargo), Up to 1 carrier per passenger (May contain 1 or  2 pets.) Pets traveling in the same carrier must be of the same species, under 6 months old, and of similar size.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : For carry-on, the limit is 7 on American flights and 5 on American Eagle flights.
• 8 weeks or older to fly domestically. 
• Age varies for international locations. 
• If you’re traveling with connecting flights, checked pets (cargo) can only connect in limited cities .
• Weather extreme restrictions are in place that may bar pet travel in cargo if destinations are over 85℉ or below 45℉.

Big or small, your canine cany enjoy worry-free traveling with this carrier.

About : JSX provides the comfort of private flights at an affordable rate to travelers across a limited portion of the United States. With its relatively relaxed pet policy , it’s a top-notch pick for low-stress flying with your dog.

@rigatoni_reacts It was kinda private. 😅 #jsx #privateflight ♬ swing lynn – lovdfilmz

Keep in mind that JSX functions as a public charter operator — it basically shared private air travel. On top of being able to bring your larger-sized pet into the cabin with you, that also means you get a host of other perks that come with private flights, such as:

• Private terminals and separate security
• Business class legroom with roomy seats
• Intimate 30-seat jets
• Plane-side baggage retrieval immediately after unloading passengers

Sounds amazing, right?

The downside is that tickets are pricier than your normal flight — expect to pay 2-3x what you’d pay with a standard airline. Plus, JSX has a very limited number of flight paths, primarily in the southwest region of the United States.

Still, if you’re going where JSX flies, it can’t get much better for you and your pooch.

• Small dogs must be kenneled at all times, while medium and large-sized dogs must be leashed and stowed in the footwell of the seat beside you 
• Pets and carriers aren’t allowed on airline seats
• Only well-mannered dogs are permitted to fly
• Dogs in Cargo : No.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No listed breed restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, with limitations. ESAs must have the required documentation and demonstrate safe and appropriate behavior in a flight setting (no lunging, barking, growling, jumping, pottying accidents, etc.) ESAs must be reported to the airline in advance to ensure proper seating arrangements and documentation.
• Fee : Free for small dogs riding in a carrier stowed beneath a seat; large dogs incur a fee equal to the advertised rate of your adjoining seat. 
• Weight Limits : 65 pounds or less
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 13″ wide x 11″ tall x 17″ long
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 5 pets maximum per flight.
• Age Limits : None listed.
• JSX has a limited service map across the U.S.
• JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be completed before boarding.
• Only 1 pet per carrier is permitted.

3. United Airlines

A broad coverage map and simple rules for flying with your pet make this airline great for those with canine passengers. 

About : United Airlines’ pet policy makes things easy on pet parents by spelling everything out without much fluff. The coverage area is impressive, too, with tons of domestic and international destinations to choose from.

• Seating options for passengers with pets can vary by aircraft
• Pets must stay in a carrier stowed beneath a seat at all times
• Passengers with pets cannot sit in an emergency exit row, a United Premium Plus seat, or in the front row of any cabin
• Dogs in Cargo : United has discontinued other pet cargo shipments via PetSafe except for U.S. military members on current Permanent Change of Station orders and State Department Foreign Service Personnel on current reassignment. In these cases, you can fly with your pets as checked baggage, but only on flights between Guam and Honolulu and under specific conditions. 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to fly via United.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel in accordance with United’s pet guidelines and pay the required fees.
• Fee : $125 carry-on fee, with a $125 charge for each stopover of 4 hours in the U.S. or 24 hours internationally.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits for carry-on pets. Your dog just has to fit comfortably in his carrier.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Hard-sided kennels are permitted and must be 17.5” long x 12” tall x 7.5” wide or smaller, while soft-sided kennels are allowed to be 18” long x 11” wide x 11” tall or smaller. Your dog must fit comfortably inside the kennel with enough space to stand and turn around without crouching. If flying on a Boeing 737 MAX 9, your pet carrier cannot be taller than 10 inches and if traveling in Economy with a pet on this type of plane, you must sit in a window seat.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Crates cannot exceed 34 inches in height when traviling in the cargo hold. Your dog must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around naturally.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : Varies by aircraft. Some allow a max of 2 pets in premium cabins and 4 pets in economy seating, while others allow up to 6 pets in economy seating.
• Age Limits : Older than 8 weeks to travel domestically and at least 16 weeks or older to travel internationally
• United only allows one pet per carrier.
• A health certificate for your pet dated within 30 days of your trip is required when traveling domestically. This should include your name, phone number, and address, along with your pet’s breed, sex, age, and markings. The certificate should also include your dog’s vaccination information, including the name of the vaccines, the dates administered, and the expiration dates. 

Loads of East Coast destinations make this a top pet-positive airline.

About : Delta makes flying up and down the eastern seaboard with your pooch easy with heaps of destinations. Delta’s rules surrounding pet travel are convenient to navigate, too, making your flying Fido expeditions all the more tail-wagging.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets cannot travel in any cabin with flat-bed seats
• Carry-on pets are not permitted for international travel for passengers in Business Class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One due to insufficient space. This may also be limited for domestic travel, depending on the flight.
• Carry-on pets cannot be seated in bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, and no-stowage seats
• All animals traveling via cargo must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of flight from a licensed veterinarian. 
• Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage during periods of extreme weather. This is defined as temperatures exceeding 80˚F below 20˚F.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds and mixes cannot fly with Delta.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel as pets, follow applicable rules, and pay necessary fees.
• Fee : $95 carry-on fee each way domestically, $200 carry-on fee each way internationally, and $75 carry-on fee each way for Brazil. For military mutts traveling with their families, the fees are $200 for traveling to the U.S. or internationally and $150 for flying to Brazil.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits are listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Varies by flight. For most flights, Delta recommends a soft-sided carrier that is ​​18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Varies significantly by aircraft.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Only 1 unless a mother dog is traveling with puppies less than 6 months old or if 2 puppies less than 6 months old can comfortably fit in a kennel.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 2 in Business Class, 4 in the Main Cabin.
• Age Limits : Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic air travel.
• Sedation of household dogs is forbidden for travel with Delta.
• Delta asks passengers to have kennel dimensions available at booking.
• Pet parents must check-in at the Special Service Counter.

5. Southwest

An affordable dog-friendly flier with numerous destinations across the southern U.S. and beyond.

About : Flying around the southern United States with your dog is easy with Southwest. Southwest’s pet policy is pretty easy to digest too, allowing you to focus on the more enjoyable parts of your four-footed excursion.

• Pets that are aggressive, excessively whining or barking, or soiling the cabin or gate area may be denied boarding
• Pets must remain in carriers at all times
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in exit rows or seats without stowage
• Vaccinations are required, but Southwest doesn’t require proof of vaccination
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions given.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy rules.
• Fee : $95 per pet carrier, $35 for carriers flying with passengers between Hawaiian islands between September 6 and December 31.
• Weight Limits : None noted besides “small dogs only”
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum of 18.5” long x 13.5” wide x 9.5” tall
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier per passenger which may contain up to 2 small dogs as long as they fit comfortably together
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 6 pet carriers per flight
• Age limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pets cannot fly to and from Hawaii and other destinations but can fly between the Hawaiian islands.
• Southwest doesn’t allow pets to fly internationally.
• Pet crates and strollers are accepted as checked luggage.

Escaping to the tropics with your sunny sniffer is easy with this airline.

About : JetBlue has destinations across the Caribbean from multiple points across the U.S, making it an excellent choice for those looking to soak up the sun with a pup. JetBlue’s pet policy is similar to most major airlines, though it does have its differences.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times in the airport and on the plane
• Carriers must remain stowed beneath a seat during takeoff, landing, and taxi
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in emergency exit rows, bulkhead seats, Mint seats or any seat without under-seat stowage
• Pets can’t fly to Trinidad and Tobago or London
• Pets aren’t allowed on interline or codeshare bookings
• Vaccination requirements vary by destination 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : None listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under the airline’s pet policy rules.
• Fee : $125 each way for cabin travel.
• Weight limits : 20 pounds total for your dog and carrier combined
• Cabin crate size limits : 17″ length x 12.5″ width x 8.5″ height
• Maximum number of pets per passenger : 1 (A second pet can travel if an additional seat is purchased along with paying another pet travel fee.)
• Maximum pets per flight : 6
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Compliant pet carriers can be purchased at the ticket counter.

7. Alaska Airlines

Air travel with big barkers up to 150 pounds is possible with this cool carrier.

About : Jetting with a giant breed is possible with Alaska Airlines, with their 150-pound weight limit for pets and carriers combined leaving room for many breeds barred from other carriers. The airline is one of the most popular with pet owners, with Alaska Airlines pet policy allowing most sniffers to take to the skies.

• Cannot sit in emergency exit or bulkhead rows
• Must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under a seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing
• Loud or odorous pets can be refused cabin travel and moved to cargo
• Doesn’t transfer pets traveling in cargo to other carriers
• Cargo travel discontinued between November 15 and January 10 for flights 2000-2999 and flights 3300-3499
• Extreme temperatures may lead to suspended cargo pet travel
• Aggressive pets may be refused entry
• Pets cannot travel via baggage on the Airbus fleet
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds may not travel via cargo but are permitted to travel in the cabin if they fit into the required carrier.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the airline’s pet policy guidelines.
• Fee : $100 each way for dogs traveling in cargo or cabin. $105 if departing from Canada.
• Weight Limits : Up to 150 pounds for crates and canines combined in cargo.
• Hard-sided  17″ x 11″ x 7.5″
• Soft-sided 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 26″ X 24″ x 36″, Boeing 737, Horizon Air Q400 and E175, and SkyWest ERJ-175 aircraft may allow 30″ x 27″ x 40″
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Maximum of 2 carriers per paid passenger, but you must purchase the seat adjacent to you. Up to 2 pets of the same species per carrier for cabin dwellers, only 1 per cargo carrier unless they’re similarly sized puppies less than 6 months old.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : First class can accommodate 3 carriers, while the main cabin can handle 5 carriers.
• Age Limits : Must be older than 8 weeks.
• Health certificate dated within 10 days required for checked pets.
• Aggressive pets may be denied entry.

8. Hawaiian Airlines

Best Pet-Friendly Airline for the Hawaiian Islands

About : Say aloha to the islands with your pup by flying Hawaiian Airlines, a carrier that jets between islands as well as to and from North America and other destinations. Their pet policy is spread around their FAQs, but tracking down answers isn’t too tricky, though the limitations require close attention.

• Not permitted in First Class between Hawaii and North America
• Not allowed between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted internationally
• Not permitted between Hawaii and Pago Pago
• Passengers with pet carriers cannot sit in emergency exit rows, seats adjacent to emergency exit rows, or in the bulkhead
• Not permitted between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted during yearly embargo period due to weather (April 15 to October 15)
• Not permitted internationally (May not apply between Hawaii and Japan for active duty personnel)
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are discouraged but not banned.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy guidelines.
• $125 for cabin travel if traveling from North America
• $35 for cabin travel if flying from within the limits of Hawaii
• $60 if traveling in cargo between Hawaiian islands.
• $225 for cargo travel if traveling to and from North American continent
• Cabin: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 25 pounds.
• Cargo: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 70 pounds. If your pet is heavier, contact support for potential options.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Carriers must be soft-sided and cannot exceed 16” length x 11” width x 9.5” height.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 36″ length x 25″ width x 27″ height maximum
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet carrier per pet. 
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pet carriers may contain up to 2 pets if they’re less than 6 months old and of the same species.
• Travel between Hawaiian Islands does not require a health certificate, but those traveling to and from elsewhere need a health certificate dated within 14 days of flying.
• Hawaiian Airlines does not offer carriers if yours does not comply. Your pet will be refused flight.
• The state of Hawaii has strict rules surrounding rabies and vaccination status.

A 40-pound weight limit allows most small dogs to fly in the cabin with this carrier.

About : Spirit’s pet policy allows dogs up to 40 pounds to fly as long as they fit comfortably in the assigned carrier size, leaving wiggle room for pups who exceed the strict weight limits of other airlines. Pricing is reasonable, too, and there aren’t any breed-specific bans in place.

• Passengers with pets can’t sit in the first row or emergency exit seats
• Pets are only permitted on domestic flights, not international
• Traveling dogs cannot be odorous, disruptive, or in distress
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No breed-specific bans.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must follow Spirit’s pet policy.
• Fee : $110 each way
• Weight Limits : Carrier weight cannot exceed 40 pounds.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ long x 14″ wide x 9″ tall
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier pet passenger, which can contain up to 2 pets if housed comfortably.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 6
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Pets must check-in at a service counter, not a self-serve kiosk.
• Health certificates aren’t required for boarding, but always check destination requirements to ensure compliance.
• Proof of vaccinations isn’t required by the airline, but may be needed depending on your destination.

10. Allegiant

A $50 pet fee makes Allegiant one of the cheapest options for flying with your pooch.

About : Low-cost airline Allegiant has a bare-bones pet travel policy compared to others, taking the squeeze off paperwork-wary pet parents and saving your treat money for fun things. That said, you still need to comply with destination document requirements.

• Sick, violent, distressed, or disruptive animals aren’t permitted to travel
• Pets can’t travel in exit rows, bulkheads, or one row before or after exit rows
• Animals must remain in the carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under the seat during takeoff and landing
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Emotional support animals must follow the pet guidelines.
• Fee : $50 per carrier each way
• Weight Limits : Only small pets that can fit into the designated crate size are permitted.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep
• 1 carrier per passenger
• No more than 2 pets per carrier (pets must get along and be able to fit comfortably)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older
• Allegiant requires no health certificate for traveling pets, but they also assume no responsibility for your dog’s health or well-being in the cabin.
• All pet travelers must arrive one hour before their designated flight time to check for compliance.

A lack of a health certificate requirement might save you time, but it also leaves your pet vulnerable to traveling around animals that may not be in tip-top shape.

11. Frontier

At $99 per pet, this airline’s pet fees let you save your doggy dough.

About : Budgeting for your fur-flying trip is made easier with Frontier’s low-cost pet fees. They may not be the most affordable option, but they’re certainly worth considering if you’re trying to keep your travel costs low. Frontier’s pet flight policy is straightforward too, saving time on research.

• Dogs that bark or whine excessively, smell offensive, or act aggressively may be turned away
• Passengers traveling with a pet cannot sit in row one or exit rows 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under Frontier’s pet guidelines.
• Fee : $99 per pet, per flight.
• Weight Limits : None listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ length x 14″ width x 8″ height
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger.
• While Frontier doesn’t require health certificates, your destination may, even domestically, so always triple-check to be sure you’re in compliance.
• Coverage includes all U.S. domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
• Pre-assigned seating eliminates the stress of landing the right seat.

12. Air Canada

A Canadian carrier offering service to pet parents to a variety of destinations across Canada.

About : Visit Canada with your canine on Air Canada, an airline whose rules for pet flight are long yet thorough. Rules vary by season for safety’s sake, so keep a close eye on dates and check with customer service to avoid any surprises.

• Pets cannot travel in Business class on Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts
• Pets cannot travel in Premium Economy
• Only 1 pet is permitted per carrier
• Cannot be seated in a bulkhead or exit row
• 2 pets may travel in the same carrier in cargo, but they can’t weigh more than 31 pounds each. (You’ll still have to pay 2  fees)
• Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to travel in the cargo hold.
• “Strong dog” breeds and crossbreeds must be transported via special carriers in cargo. This list includes the Caucasian shepherd, kangal, pit bull-type breeds, all mastiffs, Rottweilers, and wolf hybrids. This restriction doesn’t apply to puppies between 3 and 6 months old.
• Pit bulls are banned in Ontario and cannot fly to the province.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow pet rules.
• Fee: Varies by minimum and maximum tax that’s based on your itinerary which ranges between $50 and $59 for a one-way fee for flights within Canada, and $100 to $118 for a one-way fee for international flights. 
• Cabin weight limit is 22 pounds for your dog and carrier
• 100 pounds for the carrier and pet if traveling in cargo (If heavier, contact support to discuss possible options)
• 8” H x 16” W x 17” L for Boeing 787-9 
• 8” H x 16” W x 14.5” L for Boeing 787-8 
• 8.25” H x 15” W x 17” L for Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing-200LR 
• 7.75” H x 15.75” W x 17” L and soft-sided for Airbus A321, Airbus 220, Airbus A320, Airbus a319, and Boeing 737 Max 8
• Cargo Crate Size Limits: 115” in linear dimensions max (If larger, contact support to discuss options)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 1 per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: Between 2 and 4, depending on flight
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Travelers with pets must arrive at least 30 minutes before their recommended check-in time and speak with an agent, as pets cannot be checked-in via kiosk.
• Pets are allowed in Maple Leaf Lounges but must remain in a carrier.
• Aggressive dogs may be refused for travel.
• Winter travel restrictions bar dogs less than 10 pounds from traveling in cargo and can’t travel in certain aircraft. No pets are accepted for any travel between December 18 and January 4.
• Pet travel to warm climates is banned during certain periods, depending on destination.

13. Lufthansa

A German-based, fur-friendly flier with loads of international routes.

About : Traveling abroad with your best fur friend is possible with Lufthansa, a German airline that flies to cities around the world. Lufthansa’s pet travel policy is comprehensive, but certain aspects vary by flight, so always double-check requirements before booking.

• Must be kenneled and stowed under the airline seat at all times
• Pet cannot be disruptive or aggressive
• Must book no later than 72 hours before departure
• Dogs in Cargo: New cargo bookings have been discontinued.
• Brachycephalic dog breeds cannot travel in cargo
• Dogs classified as “fighting breeds” can only travel via the cargo in special crates. These breeds include the American bulldog, dogo Argentino, Kangal, Caucasian shepherd, and Rottweiler. The only exception for cabin travel is for dogs aged three to six months.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow Lufthansa’s pet policy.
• Fee: Varies by flight 
• Weight Limits: Pup and carrier must weigh less than 8 kg (17.6 pounds) combined
• Cabin Crate Size Limits: Soft-sided carriers must measure 22” x 16” x 9” or less
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 2 pets per passenger (if traveling via cabin, must be in same carrier)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: None listed, but bookings are issued on a first come, first serve basis.
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older
• Health certificate issued within 10 days of flying required.
• Pets are allowed in Lufthansa lounges but must be contained in a carrier.
• Pet parents must complete 2 copies of Lufthansa’s transporting an animal in the passenger cabin form.
• All pet carriers must be lined in an absorbent material (puppy pad).
• 2 pets must travel in separate carriers unless they’re puppies or adults of comparable size or a mother and her pup aged 6 months or younger.

14. Avolar Pets

About : Avolar Pets is a public charter operator that takes you and your pooch to the skies in style by utilizing a network of private jets for shared travels with other pet parents wanting more than standard service. You won’t need to navigate throngs of travelers, as its flights depart from private terminals to make boarding as stress-free as possible. Best of all, your barker isn’t relegated to a carrier or cargo — leashed pups ride right in the cabin!

• Dogs in Cabin : Yes, leashed dogs are welcome
• Dogs in Cargo : No
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Dependent on destination (Example: The UK has a ban on American pit bull terriers)
• Fee : Varies by flight
• Weight Limits : None
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : N/A
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 2 pets per passenger, with restrictions
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 20
• Age Limits : Minimum canine age requirement varies by destination
• Each passenger is permitted one pet over 50 pounds or 1 leashed dog under 50 pounds and 1 pet under 50 pounds in a travel carrier
• Arrive 1 hour prior to departure
• Pup passengers lie on the floor next to their owners during the flight
• Flights are confirmed once a 75% passenger and pet threshold is met for the route
• If threshold is not met at least 21 days before departure, your flight may be canceled and issued a full refund
• No refunds are issued unless your flight is canceled by the airline
• Limited flight routes are available, but more may be added in the future
• Service reviews pet travel documents four to six days before departure to ensure clearance
• Overly aggressive dogs are not permitted

General Tips for Flying with Your Pet

Flying to a destination with your furry adventure buddy is loads of fun, but to keep it that way, you should follow a few rules of the skies, including: 

• Book early. Most airlines limit the amount of pets allowed per flight. To snag one of these coveted spots for your sniffer, book your trip as soon as possible.
• Double-check all of the details with the airline. When in doubt, ask. Airline rules are ever-changing, especially with continued complications in a post-pandemic world. It’s better to dot all of your Is and cross your Ts than to be surprised at check-in.
• Select an airline-ap p roved crate when flying cargo . Carriers come in all shapes and sizes, many of which aren’t airline compliant with their gadgets and gizmos. Check size requirements with your airline and other concerns, such as acceptable materials or rules about crate locks. Also, note that these can vary by dog breed.
• Talk to your vet. Square away vaccination updates and health checks before planning any trips with your pup. It’s important to determine if your dog is fit to fly and to have your ducks in a row paperwork-wise for vaccinations.
• Pack medications. Sometimes travel brain gets the best of us and we forget the most important everyday items like underwear or your dog’s medications. If possible, these should be among the first supplies you pack. They should be in their original containers with your vet’s information too to avoid any transparency problems.
• Consider your pet’s needs over yours. Not every dog likes to fly or is well-suited for flight. Health issues and personality quirks can put unnecessary stress on your canine. While you may be looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of an exotic locale, your dog may be too anxious to enjoy such a trip. Sometimes staying home with a trusted petsitter is best.
• Can’t fly? Consider ground transportation . If your dog isn’t a good fit for flying, there are plenty of great pet ground transportation services that can drive your dog to your final destination. With shared van and private van options, you can usually find a service that won’t break your budget (although overall, pet ground transport is definitely pricier than flying, as it takes longer and requires more manual labor on the driver’s part).

Check out our top tip s for flying with your dog . We explain everything you need to know to make your upcoming trip a blast!

Pet-Friendly Airlines: FAQ

Flying with your dog can be a head scratcher sometimes. Check out these commonly asked questions to brush up on your knowledge about traveling by air with your dog.

Is it safe to travel with your pet?

In many cases, yes.

Most healthy dogs fly in an airplane’s cabin without issue, especially the most travel-friendly breeds .

Risks increase if your dog is brachycephalic (short-faced,) medically frail, or traveling in the cargo area. Most airlines do not even allow any kind of plane travel for brachycephalic breeds or breeds that are prone to issues like overheating.

Traveling by air with young puppies or seniors is also not advised and often not allowed by major airlines.

If you have any concerns about your dog’s safety during travel, contact your vet to discuss if flying is the best option or if a staycation is a better pupper plan.

What is the safest airline for pets?

According to a 2018 report by the Department of Transportation detailing incidents involving the loss, injury, or death of animals during air transportation, airlines reporting zero incidents include Horizon Air, Republic Airways, Endeavor Air, Mesa Airlines, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Compass Airline, CommutAir, Envoy Air, and Sun Country Airlines.

However, it’s worth noting that these airlines transported far fewer animals than major carriers, with the majority flying less than 10,000 animals annually.

Alaska Airlines reported the least incidents among major airlines, with 1 injury per 143,634 pets flown. SkyWest Airlines and American Airlines also experienced fewer incidents. The worst-performing major airline was Hawaiian Airlines, with 3 deaths in the 9,505 pets flown.

Despite the media hyper-focusing on pet deaths while flying, these occasions are very rare. Pet travel by plan is generally quite safe.

What documents do I need for my pet to fly?

The documents needed vary by airline and destination. Some ask for nothing, while most require a health certificate.

Completed by a vet, this certificate states that your dog is healthy enough to fly and free of infectious diseases. Shot records may also be required, depending on the airline and destination. International flights generally have the strictest document requirements.

What are some of the new airline pet restrictions after the pandemic?

The pandemic greatly affected pet travel with employee shortages and an uptick in flight cancellations. In response, airlines have limited cargo shipment of animals, some have banned emotional support animals, and others increased fees for pets traveling in the cabin.

The CDC has also tightened the rules surrounding dogs coming to the United States , with new age, vaccination, microchipping, and location restrictions. This is in response to several rabies-infected dogs arriving in the U.S. during the pandemic.

Which airlines allow dogs on the plane?

Several airlines allow dogs to fly, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and JetBlue. However, airline canine travel rules vary, so always call ahead to ensure your pooch can take to the skies.

Does federal law allow dogs on airplanes?

Federal law leaves it up to airlines if pets are permitted to travel via cabin with passengers or as cargo. These restrictions do not apply to service animals. Federal law states that service animals are allowed in the cabin of any airplane and aren’t subject to carrier or health certificate requirements. There’s also no limit on the number of service animals on a flight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Probably not. Most airlines require dogs to stay kenneled in an airline-approved pet carrier and under the seat in front of you for the flight duration. This keeps you, your pet, and other passengers safe in case of turbulence and other airtime events.

Can pets fly alone?

Maybe. Some airlines allow pets to fly alone while others do not. There are many pet transport services that can aid in canine travel if you can’t travel with them.

What is the best airline for traveling with a pet?

Our top pick for the best airline to travel with a pet is JSX. Since the flights are semi-private and you can take any sized dog onto the plane without a crate, it’s the ideal flying experience for you and your pooch. The only downside is that there aren’t many flight destinations, and the tickets can be pricey.

Have you flown with your dog? Did you fly with any of the airlines on our list or another? Any tips for other travelers with pups? Share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear!

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The 6 Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 13 carriers on roundtrip domestic flights

The Spruce Pets / Sarah Naftzger

The Winners

How we picked, more we recommend.

We tested 13 airline-approved pet carriers on roundtrip domestic flights with both cats and dogs. After dozens of hours of combined flight time, our testers most appreciated machine washable linings, built-in trolley sleeves, lots of ventilation, and a balance between structure and flexibility that provides the most comfort for their pets. Our favorite has all of these features.

After testing on domestic flights, Away's The Pet Carrier is our favorite airline-ready pet carrier . It's not only attractive but fully featured, with multiple points of entry, a trolley sleeve, lots of ventilation, a waterproof lining, and a machine washable bed. Plus, it's crash test certified. For a more affordable option , check out the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier instead. It's got lots of ventilation, and zip-out accordion sections that let you make the carrier a lot bigger—and more comfortable for your cat or dog—when you're not walking around with it.

We also identified four more airline-approved pet carriers that we think are worth your consideration:

• Best for Small Dogs: Wild One Travel Carrier
• Best Kennel: Gunner G1 Kennel
• Best Tote: Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier
• Best for Cats: Travel Cat The Transpurrter

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

Away the pet carrier.

• Quality 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

What We Like: Crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety; Water-resistant lining; removable and washable bed; trolley sleeve for seatbelt or rolling suitcase attachment

What We Don't Like: Not suitable for pets over 18 pounds

The Away Pet Carrier is sturdy, sleek, versatile, and easy to clean. Plus, it meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) so it’s suitable for in-cabin use on most major airlines (always check with your flight provider). 

During the testing period, our Chihuahua-mix participant was comfortable and secure for the duration of a six-hour flight. The Away carrier's leather and nylon exterior is structured enough to offer protection and stability, but has enough flexibility to squeeze into tight under-seat spaces. We also found it easy to carry by hand or over a shoulder, with double straps similar to a gym bag. 

The Pet Carrier has both internal and external pockets, including a side pocket with a waterproof lining and drainage holes—ideal for a collapsible water bowl. Mesh panels on three sides make for excellent ventilation, and each can also be unzipped for quick access to your pet, or covered with privacy panels to block external stimulation. The interior has a padded, fuzzy bed that is both removable and machine washable.

The Spruce Pets / Alessandra Amodio

The Spruce / Sarah Naftzger

The carrier has a weight maximum of 18 pounds, which is lower than others on our list, but keep in mind that some airlines have a 20 pound weight maximum for pet and carrier combined. Airlines may weigh pets with their carriers on the luggage scale, and an 18-pound dog combined with the 4-pound Away travel carrier might lead to travel disruptions, so it's a limit you'll want to be conscious of before traveling.

This bag is more expensive than many of our other favorites, but we found the craftsmanship of this pet carrier to be worth the premium. Away provides a warranty for one year after purchase. It also comes with a dust bag for storage between flights. And to top it all off, this carrier received a five-star crash test rating certification from the Center for Pet Safety .

Available in Jet Black or Coast Blue

An Affordable Alternative

Petsfit expandable pet carrier.

People / JT Wilde

• Size 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

What We Like: Plush liner can be unzipped and removed for cleaning; expandable side gives pets more room to spread out; includes external pocket and a loop for wheeled luggage handles

What We Don't Like: Handles are not padded and can become uncomfortable

The wire-framed structure of the Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier allows for flexibility when placed under an airline seat. While you wait to board, a zippered mesh encasement can be opened up while keeping your pet fully contained. Pets are usually required to stay in their carriers unless you are in a designated pet area of the airport. With this carrier, a zippered mesh encasement can be opened up while giving your pet extra room to stretch while keeping them fully contained.

Our participating dog could not fully stand in the small-sized carrier, but they did have room to move around and get cozy. The carrier comes with a plush pad that can be unzipped and fully removed for cleaning. 

The Spruce Pets / JT Wilde

The carrier has a padded shoulder strap and two unpadded handles. We found the latter to be slightly uncomfortable when holding for a longer duration (e.g. waiting in line to deplane). To give your hands and shoulder a break, there is a loop on one side to slot through the telescopic handlebar of a suitcase.

Available in three sizes and four colors

Testing: We selected 13 bestselling and highly-rated pet carriers for real-world testing. Tests were conducted with both cats and dogs, with testers using the carrier on domestic flights. Our testers primarily tested the products on long, roundtrip flights , many six hours or more. Carriers were also tested on roadtrips, Amtrak travel, in the subway , and a variety of other travel scenarios, with many testers subjecting their carrier to a wide range of activities over several weeks or months. Testing was completed during the peak holiday season, further stress-testing each of the carriers.

Throughout testing, our volunteer testers followed a methodology created by our testing and research team to ensure we received back consistent notes from tester to tester. Testers provided feedback in the following categories: size, design, portability, ease of cleaning, comfort, quality, and value . Equipped with their first-hand observations and scoring feedback, our editors then ranked and categorized our top picks for the perfect pet carrier to suit your travel needs.

Other Carriers We Tested

In addition to our winners and recommended pet travel carriers, we also tested:

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel : While not as tough as our favorite cargo hold kennel, this more affordable option scored well with our tester, who used it to travel with a 55-pound dog.

Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier : Our tester cat was able to pry open the zipper and tear this carrier up with her claws—we have some durability concerns. Also, only the smallest two available sizes are suitable as an under seat carry-on.

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier : This is a high-quality, premium carrier, but its duffle bag design was a little too claustrophobic for our big cat tester, and so at this price point we preferred carriers with a stiffer leather construction.

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier : We liked the rectangular construction and abundant ventilation, but felt that some of the other premium carriers are an overall better value.

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier : Another excellent premium option, this carrier earned the same crash test certification from the Center for Pet Safety as our best overall, but it's a little bigger and bulkier, making it a slightly less attractive option for lugging around the airport.

What To Look For

Size Guidelines

Flights have more stringent requirements than other ways of traveling with your pet . The exterior measurements of the carrier you select must fall within the sizing guidelines provided by the airline provider for your flight. A typical limitation is that pet carriers need to be within 18 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 11 inches tall to fly in the cabin. Some airlines also have a maximum weight for your pet plus their carrier, but this varies between airlines, so we recommend using the guidelines provided by the airline you intend to fly with your pet most frequently. Here are the restrictions for some popular airlines:

• Alaska Airlines
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• American Airlines

Beyond requirements, the interior of your carrier should be spacious enough for your pet to stand (even temporarily), turn around, lie down, and adopt multiple positions. Commercial calming aids for dogs and cats can help with restlessness and anxiety. Read The Spruce Pets for more travel tips .

Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided

The carriers that made our list tend to fall in between hard and soft, offering structured yet flexible coverage for your pet that is just malleable enough to accommodate under the seat dimensions on an airplane. The softest of our selects, the tote-style Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Carrier, has firm base which is important for your pet to feel steady while being carried. If you dog is too big to fly in cabin, then you definitely need a hard-sided kennel, like our Best for Cargo choice, the Gunner G1 Kennel . 

Easy Carrying

If your pet carrier will be your personal item on a flight, then it's likely you'll also be juggling a piece of carry-on luggage. If you have a piece of wheeled luggage with a standard handle, then look for what's called a "trolley sleeve" when shopping for a carrier. A trolley sleeve is a tight band that attaches to your luggage handle, allowing your carrier to ride on top of your luggage.

While most carriers feature two handles, you may also want to seek out a carrier with a third, cross-body shoulder strap. This can make it easier to tote a carrier through airports, leaving your hands free for additional luggage. Many of our favorite carriers have a removable shoulder strap, which can be left off if you're trying to save a little weight.

Wild One Travel Carrier

The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada

• Size 3.5 /5
• Comfort 4 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Design 4 /5

What We Like: Versatile design includes a shoulder strap that can be used as a leash; easy to wipe clean; folds flat when not in use; can be personalized with your dog's name

What We Don't Like: Very snug fit under airplane seat; carrier's measurements exceed limits for some airlines

Best for Small Dogs: This versatile pet carrier has an internal padded mat that can be unfolded to expand giving your dog a cozy space to nap once you arrive at your destination. The bag has a cylindrical shape that does not allow for all small dogs to stand up inside when fully zipped up but does offer more space horizontally for them to spread out. Our tester dog, an eight-pound Pomeranian, had space to lay down, put their head up, and get comfortable, but if you’ve got a short-legged friend, like Dachshund , or a very petite pal, like a Chihuahua , then they’ll fit right in. 

The carrier is well made with durable zippers, allowing for flexibility in use and mesh paneling for airflow and to keep your dog in view. To get your dog acclimated to the bag, you can open up one of the sides to let them come in and out as they please, and when you are on the plane, you can unzip just the top to slide in a treat. The shoulder strap can be removed and used as a leash, and there are two additional padded handles for a comfortable and secure grip.

A slotted panel on the back allows you to place it on the handlebars of your suitcase or secure it in a car by passing a seatbelt through. However, unlike our selection for Best Overall, the Away Pet Carrier, this bag has not been crash test certified by the Center for Pet Safety. The carrier is available in black, green, and tan, and folds up flat for storage.

Available in black, tan, and a limited edition spruce color

Gunner G1 Kennel Intermediate

The Spruce Pets / Lisa Pezzuto

What We Like: Lifetime warranty, back wheels make the heavy carrier easier to transport; small, medium, and intermediate sizes are 5 Star Crash Test certified by the Center For Pet Safety ; reinforced sides absorb impact and regulate temperature

What We Don't Like: Very heavy and typically requires more than one person to move

Best Kennel: If your dog is too big to fly in the main cabin—which for most airlines is around 20 pounds—then they will have to ride in the cargo section of the airplane. The best option we found is the Gunner G1 Kennel. It’s designed to keep your dog as comfortable as possible, with rotomolded double walls to regulate the temperature and absorb the impact for any bumps that may occur during takeoff, in the air, and when landing. You won’t be able to access your dog during your flight, so it’s important to make sure they are secure prior to boarding.

Your dog will need water in their kennel for the flight, and the recessed floor for this carrier will limit any discomfort they may experience in case of a spill. You can also add an orthopedic bed designed for the kennel or your dog’s favorite blanket.

The Spruce / Lisa Pezzuto

The kennels are made in the United States and come with a lifetime warranty. There are four sizes available and all except the largest received a five-star crash test certification from the Center for Pet Safety .

To find the right size for your dog, Gunner offers an online tool that takes into consideration your dog’s weight and measurements with length from nose to base of tail and height from front paws to top of the head. The kennel has rear wheels to help with transport, but we found it necessary to have two adults at a minimum for moving, especially with a dog inside. And in case anyone with hands instead of paws gets stuck inside, the door can be opened from both sides by humans.

Available in four sizes and five colors

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier

Love Thy Beast

What We Like: Sturdy base with an easy-to-remove platform; large zipper pocket on one side; smaller zipper pocket also functions as a loop for suitcase handle or seatbelt; lightweight and suitable for daily use

What We Don't Like: Soft sides don't provide much protection.

Best Tote: The Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier is a soft-sided tote-style bag with two shoulder straps and a sturdy base so your pet can stand confidently. It’s made of nylon and canvas, and the internal panel, which is held in place with hook and loop straps, is easy to take out and wipe clean. It’s also very lightweight and suitable for daily use. 

Our eight-pound canine participant was able to stand up, sit, lay, and turn around inside the bag when fully zipped. The bag is designed to support dogs up to 25 pounds.

The two longer sides of the rectangular-shaped bag are opaque and each features a zippered pocket. One pocket is large enough to stash essentials such as puppy pads , a leash , and a collapsible water bowl . The other pocket is slimmer with dual zippers so it can also be used as a loop for a seatbelt or suitcase handlebars. The top and shorter sides are made from a durable mesh so you and your pet can keep an eye on each other.

We found that the mesh made it difficult for other passengers to see our furry traveler, and the bag has less structured protection than other carriers we tested, so be sure to give your aisle mates notice that your pet is inside so they can watch their step.

Available in multiple colors and material s , including waxed canvas and nylon

Travel Cat The Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier

The Spruce Pets / Morgan Ashley Parker

What We Like: Scratch-resistant mesh and water-resistant interior; full blackout capability to keep pets calm; various straps allow for customized carry

What We Don't Like: Carrier is long, limiting ability to fit under all airline seats; too unwieldy for wear as a cross-body carrier

Best for Cats: With scratch-resistant mesh, the Transpurrter Ultimate Calming Convertible Cat Carrier from Travel Cat is an excellent choice for air travel with a kitty companion ( here are some of our favorite cat carriers for your other travel scenarios). If you have an anxious cat or one that is new to travel, this carrier is designed to offer a calming space with a black interior and a full blackout side panel to block out external stimulation.

The versatile bag can be carried in multiple ways including as a duffle, a backpack, and on top of a suitcase. We found the bag to be easy to carry in all formations except as a crossbody bag. But the weight distribution might feel different for you with your cat inside. 

Travel + Leisure / Katherine Alex Beaven

The Spruce / Morgan Ashley Parker

TripSavvy / Morgan Ashley Parker

People / Morgan Ashley Parker

A leash tether is located inside so you can open up one of the panels to let your cat poke their head out. This is both adorable and very convenient for layovers, giving your cat the opportunity to see where they are without worrying that they will escape. To further foil any spur-of-the-moment urges to bolt from the bag, the zippers snap closed to prevent your cat from pawing it open. 

The carrier features external pockets for essentials, is easy to spot clean, and has an internal mat that can be removed and machine washed. 

Available in Dark Charcoal, Heather Grey, and Heather Grey & Teal

There is no standard among airlines so you have to check the guidelines with your flight provider for each flight. All of the carriers on our list have been approved by at least one major airline provider based in the United States, including Delta, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, or Jetblue, but each has its own pet policy.

Some airlines have a maximum weight of 20 pounds, which typically includes both your pet and their carrier. But each flight provider has their own pet policy.

It’s important to give your dog or cat as much space as possible but you can offer a few comforts. A small treat or toy to reinforce good behavior, and a small blanket can make the interior a little cozier. Introduce your pet to the carrier at least a few days before your flight to help them get accustomed to the space. 

Introduce your pet to the carrier at least a few days before your flight to help them get accustomed to the space. Place a treat inside so they build a positive association with the carrier. Before you board, make sure your pet has the opportunity to pee–no one likes to be contained with a full bladder. Try to remain calm and upbeat, pets pick up on the emotions of their humans very quickly, so if you are relaxed, they are more likely to be relaxed. If anxiety is a reoccurring issue for your pet, speak with your veterinarian about the appropriate options for your cat or dog.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This story was written by Anna Mejorada , a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. From NYC, Anna and Gidget have flown to various locations including Aruba, Nantucket, and San Francisco. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Anna embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.

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Fly Your Pet in the Safety and Comfort of the Main Cabin, NOT in the Dangerous Cargo Hold

Over 5,000 pets are injured or killed flying in the cargo holds of the human airlines, the dangers of the cargo hold, 1. very hot temperatures, very cold temperatures.

Your pet can experience life-threatening temperature extremes.  The temperature in the cargo hold can reach up to 140 degrees on the ground before takeoff causing heat prostration.  In the air, the temperature can easily be below freezing.

2. Not Very Much Fresh Air

In an unknown stressful environment,  your pet breathes faster to counter the stress.. There is very little fresh air circulating in the cargo hold for your pet which just adds to their stress.

3. Complete Darkness

In the cargo hold, your pet is in complete darkness with lots of strange, unfamiliar and loud noises.  In the complete darkness your pet will be scared. Not knowing or seeing what is going will just add more stress for them.

Avoid the Danger of Cargo

 fly your pet in the main cabin.

Notice our On-Board Pet Attendant coming down the aisle to check on our pawsengers! Yes, that’s him all the way in the front in the white shirt.

Introducing Pet Airways

On Pet Airways, pets fly in comfort and safety in the main cabin of our own aircraft. There is plenty of fresh, cool air and our pawsengers are constantly monitored by our On-Board Pet Attendants. .

Flights to commence post- Covid, hopefully Summer 2021

I WISH PET AIRWAYS FLEW IN EVERY CITY!

I n 2010 I rescued a beautiful girl from a high kill shelter in NY. I had to get her to the west coast, so I contacted Pet Airways to help me. I had heard the dogs flew inside cabin, not in cargo, which I was ecstatic about. Mia of Manhattan arrived in excellent condition at LAX with a note on her crate saying she was a pleasure to walk in Chicago. I wish Pet Airways flew in every city.

BRODIE, OUR DEAF AMBULLDOG WAS IN GOOD HANDS

Pet Airway just flew Brodie, a deaf AmBulldog from Chicago to Denver today. Brodie is a rescue dog going to a new forever home. And this was the least stressful way to get him most of the way there. The foster at the Chicago end said the check in counter was clean, the staff were friendly, and the pilot even allowed himself to get kissed by a large AmBulldog tongue. On the Denver end, the newest foster noted how clean, and friendly everyone was. They even had a dog out in a play area, and seemed to rotate the dogs through. Thank you Pet Airway for a stress free trip for Brodie.

PET AIRWAYS GIVES ME PEACE OF MIND

Pet Airways believes that pets deserve to travel with the utmost comfort and safety, as respected and valued passengers, not as ‘cargo’ in the way that commercial airlines handle them. Pet Airways gives me peace of mind that my pets will arrive safe and sound — and alive — at our destination. You can’t put a price on that! 

Ready, Pet, Go!

So, if you are relocating with your pet, want to take your pet on  vacation with you, or just want to take your pet along to visit the relatives, Pet Airways is here to make sure both your and their experience is happy, comfortable and safe all the way.

BARK Launches BARK Air, Designed for Dogs to Fly First Class

By Zahrah Patel

In a groundbreaking move for pet travel, BARK, a leading company dedicated to all things canine, has introduced “ BARK Air .” This unique air travel service specially caters to dogs, prioritizing their comfort and needs throughout the flying experience, while also accommodating their human companions. BARK’s ambitious project marks the debut of the world’s premier air travel designed explicitly with dogs’ best interests in mind.

BARK Air allows dogs to enjoy flying first class

Launching initially with select routes, BARK Air connects the New York City metro area with the Los Angeles area and London, offering flights from Westchester County Airport to Van Nuys and Stansted Airport, respectively. By collaborating with an Argus Platinum-rated charter company, BARK ensures top-tier safety and comfort for both dogs and their owners.

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BARK Air’s reservation system is seamless and user-friendly; a dedicated concierge reaches out to travelers post-booking to personalize the journey for each canine and their owner. This bespoke approach addresses all needs and preferences, creating a tailored, stress-free travel experience.

Upon arriving at the airport, pets and pet parents can immerse themselves in a world of luxury. Dogs can socialize in a pre-flight lounge area while their human counterparts enjoy gourmet meals. The journey would then continue with the assistance of a BARK Air concierge, guiding dogs through a carefully prepared boarding process designed to ease any pre-flight jitters. This includes access to calming treats and other amenities aimed at providing a serene travel environment.

The in-flight experience for pets is meticulously crafted, featuring BARK-branded treats, calming aids, and thoughtful amenities like noise-canceling ear muffs to ensure a smooth journey. Furthermore, dogs can enjoy special beverages to prevent discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes, showcasing BARK’s commitment to a dog-first travel experience .

Matt Meeker, co-founder and CEO of BARK, expressed enthusiasm about using their expertise in dog happiness to craft a groundbreaking travel solution, as per PEOPLE . “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family,” he said. Meeker continued, adding that this mode of travel will “help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world.”

Zahrah is a passionate writer with a deep-rooted fascination for the animal kingdom. With a Bachelor's degree in Zoology from the University of Mumbai, she has spent her time delving into the intricate world of animal behavior, physiology, and conservation. Her dedication to understanding and advocating for the well-being of animals has driven her to become a voice in the field of pet care and welfare. Whether she's spending quality time with her own furry companions or contributing to websites such as DogTime.com and CatTime.com, dedicated to our canine and feline pals, Zahrah’s compassion for all creatures great and small shines through. Her articles are designed to educate, entertain, and empower pet owners, offering valuable insights on everything from pet behavior and health to training tips and responsible pet ownership.

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Pet-friendly airlines: The best airlines for pets in the US

With pet travel so in vogue these days, there's no need to not pack your pup the next time you catch a vacation flight.

I travel regularly with my 13-pound Chihuahua mix, Poppy, who took 37 flights in 2023, and so long as your dog is on the small side, you can, too.

Most airline carriers allow dogs small enough to fit into a carrier that slides under the seat in front of you to fly in coach. Some airlines restrict pet passengers to dogs. But others, like Delta Air Lines, welcome dogs, cats and household birds on certain routes, while Alaska Airlines adds rabbits to this list.

Related: What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane, including where they can sit and how much it costs

Additionally, many airlines allow a more diverse list of pets to fly in their climate-controlled cargo holds. These include dogs too big to fly in the cabin, ferrets, nonpoisonous reptiles, pot-bellied pigs, hamsters, guinea pigs and even tropical fish.

But not all airline pet policies are created equally. So, it's important to book a pet-friendly airline and ensure its requirements work for you and your pet if you want to travel with your furry or feathery companion.

With pricing and rules all over the place, we've put together the following airline-specific pet travel guides for popular U.S. airlines:

• American Airlines pet policy
• Delta Air Lines pet policy
• Frontier Airlines pet policy
• Southwest Airlines pet policy
• Spirit Airlines pet policy
• United Airlines pet policy

These guides contain a lot of information. So, I recommend starting with this guide if you want a general overview of pet-friendly airlines and the best airlines for pets. Check out the chart below showing the animals that can fly on each airline, the cost and notable exclusions.

Please note that the information below is for pet dogs. Task-trained service dogs of any size are always allowed to fly in the cabin and have different rules regarding where they can travel. Check out our guide on flying with a service dog for specific information.

Best airlines for pets

When traveling with a pet, it's important to consider several variables. While all airlines listed below allow small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin, only a select few allow other household pets. Frontier and Spirit offer the most extensive list of animals, including birds, rabbits and several other pet types.

If you're flying internationally, you'll want to consider a different subset of pet-friendly airlines. After all, not all airlines allow pets to fly on all routes outside the United States. Some even exclude certain pets from flying once you leave domestic grounds. Some international airlines may provide better pricing and a wider list of animals that can fly.

You'll also find that airlines have different rules about the type of pet carrier and the size. Some airlines even cap the number of total pets on board — making it important to know the ins and outs when determining the best airlines for pets.

If you are flying with more than one dog, or just need a little more space, United is one of the best carriers to fly. Unlike many airlines that do not allow you to book a second seat for your pet, United allows you to book the seat next to you. You will still be required to pay the $125 pet fee on top of the second seat's cost and keep your dog or cat in the carrier. If you are traveling with two pets on United, you are required to book a second seat.

Pet-friendly airlines

Of the airlines that allow dogs and other pets, the most favorable pricing is with Delta, Frontier and Southwest. Pet-in-cabin fees for domestic flights on these airlines are below $100. For international flights, on the other hand, you'll find Frontier's pricing to be the best, although destinations are more limited.

Many airlines don't allow your pet to fly with you to any international destination, such as Spirit and Southwest. And if you're flying to Hawaii, Southwest, Delta and United aren't options. So before you book your flight and assume your pet can fly with you, you'll want to look at the restrictions for each destination.

Related: The reality of international travel with your dog: How Bandido flew from Vietnam to the US

Airlines that allow dogs

Dogs are one of the most common pets people travel with, so it's no surprise that many travelers are constantly searching for airlines that allow dogs to fly. Fortunately, for any airline that allows pets to travel, dogs are always included in that list. However, most U.S. airlines only allow dogs to fly in the cabin and not underneath the plane in cargo. So you will find it easiest to travel with smaller dogs that can fly in the cabin with you.

Some airlines do allow dogs to fly as cargo in certain situations. For example, American Airlines will allow your dog to fly in cargo if you are a member of the U.S. military on active duty or a U.S. State Department Foreign Service employee traveling on official orders.

Even if you do decide to fly with a dog or dogs, however, airlines differ in price and policies. Look at the above chart to see which is best for your trip.

Related: What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane

Tips for keeping your dog happy on the flight

Your dog's first flight can be a nerve-wracking experience. Will he or she fear flying? Bark the whole time in the carrier? Take some of the anxiety out of the situation by making sure your dog is acclimated to the carrier before the trip.

"You'll want to spend some time doing some pre-travel training in the carrier to make sure your dog is accustomed to being in it for the anticipated length of the flight," says Dr. Julie Buzby, an integrative veterinarian and founder of ToeGrips for dogs. "The goal is to teach the dog to think of the carrier as a home base or safe haven, which will greatly decrease travel anxiety."

Buzby says all dogs benefit from this pre-travel crate training, but it is vital for the "smushed nose" dog breeds like Frenchies who are anatomically more prone to developing respiratory distress from stress and anxiety.

She also recommends feeding a smaller meal than normal to decrease the likelihood of an in-flight potty emergency. And, ideally, don't feed your dog less than four hours before flying.

"Although it's hard to resist those puppy dog eyes, your dog will be less likely to get airsick if you don't feed him or her immediately before the flight. This is so the dog's stomach is more empty than full," Buzby says.

And she says to remember the adage that a tired dog is a good dog.

"If I were flying with my dog in any capacity, I'd provide a robust play/exercise session the day before and the morning of travel," Buzby says. "Finally, I would probably carry a peanut-butter-smeared Kong in a Ziploc to use in flight in case of emergency."

Bottom line

With many pet-friendly airlines available — as long as your pet can fit in a carrier and travel in the cabin — it's easy to take your pet with you on your next vacation.

There's no one specific airline that wins the award of "best airline for pets" as it comes down to the type of animal you are bringing and your destination. Fortunately, pricing is within the same general range for all pet-friendly U.S. airlines. So, pick an airline that works for your particular situation and enjoy the flight.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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World's first-ever flight for dogs to take off next month.

Bark, a leading company based in the U.S. that mainly provides services for dogs, has recently launched its "Bark Air," the first-ever air travel service that allows dogs to enjoy flying first-class, it announced on its website.

"We are excited to take the insights we've learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastic different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies," said Matt Meeker, co-founder at Bark.

The airline said that passengers can book flights to travel with their dogs from April 11.

There are currently only two flight routes available, from New York’s Westchester County Airport to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys and London’s Stansted airports.

From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, airfare for just one dog and a passenger costs $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport at $6,000 one-way, The Island newspaper reported.

Bark Air passengers can skip security checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process. When boarding, a Bark Air concierge is ready to ensure the dogs adjust to the environment well.

The in-flight experience for pets includes treats, calming aids, noise-canceling earmuffs, and special beverages to prevent discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes, the airline said.

According to Bark Air's regulations, passengers must be 18 years old or older.

Although its planes are designed to accommodate 15 dogs and their owners, Bark Air said it will not sell more than 10 tickets to ensure comfortable space.

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Joschka the Dalmatian is on a tour touting service animal certification

U.s. service animal rules are more flexible, but critics say international standards are a better idea.

By Lois M. Collins

Joschka, the brown-spotted Dalmatian, is welcome on planes, where, during more than 25 international flights, he’s proven he can sit quietly, put off bathroom breaks and mind his own business better than some of the human passengers. The psychiatric service dog has been trained to do all that and more so he can travel with Till-Mathias Jürgens, whose own flights are much smoother now that Joschka comes along.

Joschka is trained to European travel standards, something required of European psychiatric service dogs if they want to fly from place to place. That can be a nasty surprise for Americans flying from the U.S. to a final destination in Europe with a psychiatric service dog. As long as they meet the limited service animal requirements under the American Air Carrier Act, U.S. service dogs can fly in the airplane’s cabin from the U.S. into Europe — but the first stop is as far as they can go in the cabin. If, for example, the plane has a layover en route to Italy, the dog’s not cabin-approved for that second leg. Most airlines require European-standards certification.

Nor is a return trip to the U.S. in the plane cabin guaranteed if airlines require certification.

Jürgens and his wife, Meike Wolff, originally from Hamburg, Germany, don’t think that’s a bad idea. While in general welcoming people with service dogs is “very, very good,” Wolff told the Deseret News, “we often see that a lot of the dogs are not really trained” to high standards. That, she adds, spoils the privilege for a lot of other people who need a psychiatric service dog and have made the effort to train it properly.

That issue is, in fact, why they’re in Utah right now. The couple are here establishing PSD-USA, a branch-off of PSDeurope, a certification program ensuring psychiatric service dogs (that’s the PSD part of the name) are properly trained and can prove it by meeting a set of international and European standards of canine behavior. The certification targets travelers so that dogs can meet the tougher standards used to fly in Europe.

With that certification, the dogs can fly in the plane cabin throughout much of the world, the couple said. Joschka, 3, is an old hand at that.

What a service dog is — and isn’t

Psychiatric service dogs are not emotional support animals, which are no longer allowed inside plane cabins in the U.S. Service dogs are different, no certification required. Those canines are trained to perform specific tasks to aid their humans, providing an actual service. There are many types of service dogs, not just psychiatric ones. A nonpsychiatric service dog might sense a seizure coming on and take action to keep his owner safe or be trained to help someone with diabetes, for instance.

A longtime TV journalist, Jürgens traveled for many years without a dog, but started developing debilitating anxiety to the point it jeopardized his work. Joschka was trained specifically to meet Jürgens’ needs and keep air travel possible. A service dog’s training is tailored to what helps its human handler. But in Europe, it also has to demonstrably meet a set of travel and other requirements to gain certification.

“PSDeurope was founded with the goal of showing people with mental health diagnoses how they can continue to travel together with their dog, which is part of their treatment,” said Dr. Beate Pottmann-Knapp, a psychotherapist who has worked with human-animal duos in treating mental health patients for more than 15 years and heads the organization in Europe. “We have developed a program that is now accepted by many airlines not only in Europe but worldwide.”

By email, she wrote that airlines in Europe only recognize assistance dogs — that’s what Europe calls service dogs — if they meet certain standards. “The dogs must learn how to behave unobtrusively throughout the journey, carry out the owner’s commands and support the owner in mastering the journey mentally. To do this, the dogs learn special tasks that alleviate the owner’s psychological complaints and symptoms, alert them and reduce stress.”

Proper training, she said, makes the duo “secure and stable.” The owner learns how to lead the dog, recognize that the dog itself can experience stress that must be helped and move confidently as a team throughout a travel journey.

Which brings the story back to Joschka, who Jürgens describes as “a very good fellow — very well socialized, very friendly to every other animal.” The Dalmatian is trained to satisfy the limited requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation and Air Carrier Access Act and then to meet the stricter European and other standards of international travel.

Making international standards uniform

Wolff believes that in time those standards will — and should — become more universally implemented. Even cruise ships are “getting in touch with this subject more and more, because there are more people” with service animals. She noted that as people age, they may develop issues where a dog provides significant help with daily life. And mental health challenges have been increasingly recognized internationally among different age groups.

The two believe people should never be excluded from public life, but they are adamant that all service animals should be properly trained so that their behavior is consistent and can be reliably counted on. To do less jeopardizes acceptance and safety. They think it’s time to certify U.S. psychiatric service dogs to the same standard that exists in Europe.

Certification is for the canine’s safety and comfort, too, so the duration of long international flights are not spent in a cargo hold where the animal can’t be taken care of or might be traumatized in some way, said Wolff, who advocates “rules and regulations. Bring everybody in a position to feel comfortable with traveling the way they do,” she said, pointing to Joschka and Jürgens.

While there is no certification required for service dogs in the U.S., this husband and wife are overseeing expansion of PSDeurope through PSD-USA, with a certification program that will allow U.S. dogs in the cabin on that second leg in Europe or other international destinations. The nonprofit corporation offers certification for psychiatric service dogs that meets the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Air Carrier Access Act rules, the tougher European accessibility act rules, the official International Air Transport Association recommendations and the requirements of major international airlines. The testing and certification ensure the dog won’t be spooked by the people-mover sidewalk or a trolley in an airport, can demonstrably go without relieving itself on a flight, can fit in small places and make it through security without incident, among other things.

The organization teaches dog owners what a dog must be able to do, provides training videos and advice, access to others who’ve been there to answer questions and problem-solve, and, finally, actual certification by an expert.

The program is new enough in the U.S. that just roughly 15 dogs have been certified, with others in the process of training to meet the tougher standards. Nor are they the only organization promoting more consistent training for travel. Jürgens and Wolff believe that’s a good thing, not only for traveling canine-human pairs, but for the people with whom they share a plane and airport.

More information is online at psd-usa.org .

7 Best Calming Treats for Dogs That Need Some Relaxation

Ease your pet's travel stress, separation anxiety and beyond.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Kradle calming bliss bars.

Greenies Calming Chews

Best for General Anxiety

Purina pro plan calming care.

Best for a Stressful Event

Vetri science composure pro.

Best for Puppies

Zesty paws calming bites.

Best With Melatonin

Naturvet quiet moments.

Redbarn Bully Springs

To find the best calming treats for dogs, we sought the advice of Dr. Hammond and Lisa Lippman, D.V.M. , a veterinarian and director of virtual medicine for Bond Vet , asking them to weigh in on the ingredients they recommend for canine patients. Note that our list omits CBD and hemp dog treats , as our GH Institute nutrition experts don't yet believe there's enough clinical research to recommend them for dog anxiety. While there is some research showing CBD can help dogs with pain, Dr. Hammond says that she recommends using it "with caution and after consultation with a veterinarian." In general, it's good advice to speak to your veterinarian before feeding any dietary supplement to your dog .

Kradle is Dr. Hammond's top choice for calming dog treats. "It incorporates natural ingredients such as passionflower and L-tryptophan [an amino acid], which have been shown to have calming effects on dogs, " she said. The brand's soft Bliss Bars are in a dog-pleasing peanut butter-bacon flavor.

The brand suggests that you give a serving before a stressful event such as you leaving for work (separation anxiety is real!), a thunderstorm rolling in or a planned car ride. These can get pricey, especially if you have a big dog or intend to use these daily. For dogs who like to gnaw, the brand also makes hard chews .

Greenies chicken-flavored calming supplements has the only under-$20 pricetag on our list, and it's also an easy brand to find in many supermarkets, pet stores and mass merchants. The brand touts it for use in times of occasional (but normal) canine stress based on its lead ingredients, L-tryptophan and L-theanine (another amino acid), which may help reduce anxiety and stabilize mood , respectively.

These are relatively new for Greenies so there's not as many online reviews to read, but it's is a trusted brand that also makes some of our favorite cat treats .

Purina formulates this daily probiotic supplement for dogs that display general anxiety in the form of pacing, spinning, whining and/or barking. The brand says its proprietary strain of probiotics can help calm your dog, but there is no clinical study on it. We like that the powder is simple to sprinkle over your dog's regular food.

The brand cautions that it might take up to six weeks to see results, which can feel like a long stretch to dog owners, but some online reviewers report seeing much faster improvement. If you just want to calm your dog in a one-time stressful situation, such as a vet visit, you might want something more fast-acting.

Composure is a brand that Dr. Lippman trusts, and these chews are marketed as a way to calm a dog for a single stressful event that pops up from time to time, such as the need for a nail clipping or grooming session, fireworks or if you hear a thunderstorm rolling in.

Vetri Science says Composure will start working in a half hour, so you don't have to wait for weeks to see a behavior change — but these are not meant to be daily supplements, just as needed during stressful events. Like others, its powered by L-tryptophan and L-theanine, but the first ingredient is actually thiamine, a B vitamin, which, when deficient, can affect a dog's nervous system .

If you have a hyper or anxious puppy, this blend may be for them, made for a dog from 8 weeks to 12 months old . It uses chamomile and passionflower, two of the ingredients recommended by Dr. Hammond, plus other plant-based ingredients such as valerian and ginger. The small, soft bites are turkey flavored. Zesty Paws also makes a peanut butter flavor for fully grown dogs, and the supplements have more than 14,000 five-star Amazon reviews.

The right dose of melatonin can make an animal sleepy , so if that's what you're hoping to achieve — your dog napping in the car instead of whining at the window, or resting sleepily while visitors are over for dinner — this could be the calming dog treat for you. These chews also contain plenty of other calming ingredients such as chamomile, passionflower and L-tryptophan.

But note that an incorrect dose of melatonin can sometimes produce the opposite effect and increase a dog's heart rate or cause confusion , so dose carefully. If you want to further promote a calming atmosphere you might also try the brand's herbal calming room spray .

One pet owner with an anxious Spaniel swears these chews work wonders. "It's a vigorous chew experience, and he's always calm and happy afterward ," they said. So as an alternative to giving your dog a treat with calming ingredients, you can give your dog a long-lasting chew treat that will calm his troubles . It keeps a dog busy and distracted! And bully sticks are pricey, but made with just one single, natural ingredient.

RELATED: The Most Indestructible Dog Toys

How we chose the best calming dog treats

Two veterinary experts weighed in on this story: Sylvalyn Hammond , D.V.M., a general practice veterinarian in South Carolina, and Lisa Lippman , D.V.M., veterinarian and director of virtual medicine for Bond Vet , a chain of veterinary offices up and down the East Coast. We also checked in with Katie Brenner, a compliance officer with the National Animal Supplement Council .

On top of that, we consulted our in-house Good Housekeeping Institute experts on this guide, including Sabina Wizemann , a chemist who substantiates claims and evaluates products for the Good Housekeeping Seal , and Stefani Sassos , a registered dietitian who directs the Nutrition Lab. Last but not least, we interviewed real-life dog owners and sifted through online reviews for a full picture of real-life use of canine dietary supplements.

What to look for when shopping for calming dog treats

"Supplements are not tightly FDA-regulated , and different things may work for different pets," Dr. Lippman says. "So it's really about looking for trusted brands and trying them out to see what works for your pet."

Dr. Hammond agrees. "Every pet is unique, and individual factors such as age, breed, health status and concurrent medications must be considered before starting any new supplement regimen," which is why it's smart to first check in with your vet. Then, when shopping, consider:

✔️ Ingredients , including but not limited to:

• Chamomile: A medicinal herb with relaxing effects in dogs . (And humans, who enjoy chamomile tea.)
• Passionflower: Also a calming herb used for anxiety and sleep issues .
• Ashwagandha: Traditional, medicinal plant used to combat stress .
• L-theanine: A natural amino acid that can promote relaxation .
• L-tryptophan: An essential amino acid that works with serotonin and melatonin to help reduce anxiety . L-tryptophan is not made by a dog's body so it can only be consumed as food or treats.
• Ginger: There is some evidence that ginger can help with motion sickness and vomiting .
• Rosemary: This herb is thought to possibly enhance a dog's mood .
• Valerian: A flowering plant known for its sedative qualities .
• Melatonin: A sleep-regulating hormone that can help with stress .

✔️ Made in the U.S.: Dr. Hammond prefers treats that aren't imported, because the FDA has established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) for American companies to follow that help ensure the safe composition of all dietary supplements, including ones for pets. All the treats on our list are made in the U.S., though some ingredients are globally sourced.

✔️ NASC-Certified: Both vets recommend looking for the NASC-Certified seal on dog supplements. Brands that are certified by the National Animal Supplement Council pay to be audited for quality so they can carry that third-party certification. Everything on our list is NASC-Certified except for the Bully Springs, which are not sold as supplements. (It's the action of chewing that is calming with those, not the ingredients.)

When to see a vet

If calming treats aren't helping, there is more to try. "There are non-treat products to help calm dogs, like ThunderShirts , which provide gentle pressure to help reduce anxiety," Dr. Hammond says. "There are calming sprays containing pheromones, plus environmental modifications such as creating a quiet, safe space for your dog during stressful events. Regular exercise, mental stimulation and positive reinforcement can also contribute to overall stress reduction in dogs."

Need more help? Consult your vet about a prescription. "When the anxiety is really bad, see your vet because oftentimes, drugs are really helpful," Dr. Lippman says. "Drugs are a big part of a vet practice in that we want to do things that take stress off of our animals. It's better living through chemistry."

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For more than 120 years, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been dedicated to helping consumers make sound choices, and helping families with all things pet care is a part of that. Many of our Lab experts are dog and cat owners and we test things such as dog jackets and cat carriers in the Lab, in our own homes and in consumer-tester homes as well.

Journalist Jessica Hartshorn has owned pets all of her life, though admittedly now has two cats and no dogs. Fortunately she shares a home with her dog-owning cousin and has many dog parent friends who share their wisdom and are willing to test dog products. She also leans on the expertise of Good Housekeeping Lab experts and the brand's consumer testers.

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TSA explosives detection canine retires from his job screening travelers at Reagan National Airport

ARLINGTON, Va. – Messi, an 8-year-old Yellow Labrador Retriever, has had his last run as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger screening canine at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

The dog is ready to trade in his working vest for afternoons lounging on the sofa.

Messi’s claim to fame is that last year he was featured in the free annual downloadable annual TSA canine calendar. He was featured as the dog of the month for February.

He was clearly born to work for TSA because he enjoys watching airplanes and playing in the grass at nearby Gravelly Point. Messi is a lovable and hard-working dog who has enjoyed playing with a tennis ball after a busy day sniffing for any traces of explosives at the airport. Now he doesn’t have to wait to play with his favorite toy.

After his last morning of sniffing for any traces of explosives at Reagan National Airport this morning, Messi was joined by several of the canine handlers and invited guests to celebrate his retirement at a surprise party. A training aid was concealed in a large room and Messi, along with his handler, Peter, searched the room. When Messi “hit” on the device, he was showered with tennis balls tossed his way by the other canine handlers. Messi was thrilled !

Peter then removed Messi’s “Do Not Pet” patch from his harness, thus officially signaling that the dog was no longer a working canine and could be petted. There was no shortage of guests who were eager to pet the newly retired dog.

Peter is adopting Messi in his retirement so the two will continue to stay together. As for Peter, he is shifting gears from being a canine handler to a canine trainer.

TSA trains each of its explosives detection canines at the TSA Canine Training Center, located at Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland in San Antonio, Texas. Considered the “Center for Excellence” for explosives detection canine training, the TSA National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program is the Department of Homeland Security’s largest explosives detection canine program.

About 300 canines complete the training annually. Each canine recruit spends 16 weeks in training where they meet their handlers, socialize to adapt to busy airport environments, and learn their craft of detecting a variety of explosive odors before reporting to their duty stations.

TSA has more than 1,000 canine handler teams deployed in support of security and screening operations nationwide. The explosives detection canine teams inspect passengers and all areas in and around terminals. They are so effective at their jobs that other public and private sector law enforcement agencies often request their support for similar security missions.

Each canine and their handler serves as a reliable resource for detecting explosives as well as providing a visible deterrent to terrorism directed towards various types of transportation nodes. Once on duty, these canines work to safeguard passengers and cargo across the nation’s transportation systems.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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