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How to Fly on Delta With a Service Dog

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If you travel with a service dog, it is important to understand the rules of every airline before arriving at the airport.

When you bring a service dog on Delta Air Lines, you’ll want to review the service dog policy to ensure you and your four-legged companion are ready to fly.

Here’s what you need to know about bringing a service dog on Delta.

Does Delta allow service dogs?

Yes, Delta allows service dogs, and federal laws protect the use of service dogs when flying, provided that you meet certain requirements. This is part of the Air Carrier Access Act, which permits bringing a dog specially trained to perform tasks for a particular disability (whether physical, psychiatric or other mental type) on board.

Those needing service dogs can travel with up to two per trip. It does not cover emotional support animals or other pets.

» Learn more: The most pet-friendly airlines

What is the Delta service dog policy?

Service dogs must fit underneath the seat or in the floor space in front of you. They cannot exceed this space. Small dogs may be able to sit in the customer’s lap, but they are not permitted to occupy a seat or block the passageway (like an emergency exit) for safety reasons.

They cannot impede other passengers’ foot space either, and service dogs cannot wander independently. If seated in Delta One , they must remain in the foot area when the seat is not reclined.

If a service dog cannot fit within the foot area of any seat, the customer may purchase an additional seat — at the same price as the original seat — if space is available. The dog may not sit in the seat, but can occupy the floor space of that seat.

A service dog in training is not permitted.

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Four requirements for service dogs on Delta

1. At the airport, a check-in agent will ask to see the mandatory U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form . For flights booked more than 48 hours before departure, the form must be submitted through the Accessibility Service Request Form within the My Trips section of a Delta reservation. For those booked under 48 hours before departure, it can be provided at the ticket counter or departure gate. The same documentation is required even if the dog is part of the National Service Animal Registry.

2. Double check that you have completed the required vaccinations (like rabies) before travel.

3. If you have access to the Delta Sky Club , you can bring an approved service dog into the lounge as long as they follow the same behavior policy as onboard the aircraft.

4. It’s always wise to let the dog use the bathroom before boarding any flight. U.S. airports have designated animal relief areas. You will want to allow extra time to check in and board the aircraft since airport staff and cabin crew may need to review documentation.

For flights that last longer than eight hours, passengers must complete a Department of Transportation Service Animal Relief Attestation Form , indicating that the dog will not relieve itself onboard the aircraft — or at least do so in a sanitary way.

» Learn more: Tips for traveling with a service dog

Do service dogs fly free on Delta?

Yes, service dogs fly free on Delta, but you’ll want to make sure you have the proper documentation. In addition to the service dog, their accessories fly free, including blankets, kennels and food.

Can service dogs be denied?

Airlines have the right to request documentation and ask a consumer to describe the function the service dog performs. They can also check for the appropriate vest or harness and observe if the dog's behavior is that of a service dog (or just a rambunctious pet).

If the animal is too large or rowdy (barking, biting, snarling, jumping or even eating off tray tables on the aircraft), airlines have the right to deny travel as to not disrupt the travel experience for other passengers.

They can also deny travel if the dog makes other passengers or the flight crew uncomfortable. Service dogs can be checked in the cargo section without charge.

Airlines will also check for health and entry documentation or requirements if the animal is flying to another country.

» Learn more: Delta Air Lines SkyMiles program: The complete guide

Flying with a service dog on Delta recapped

If you bring the appropriate documentation, which requires advance completion in most circumstances, and are traveling with a service dog that performs a function necessary for someone with a disability, the process is straightforward.

Be sure to allow extra time in case an agent has additional questions and to allow the service dog to relieve itself before takeoff.

Following the appropriate (and simple) steps means you and your service dog can be comfortably above the clouds and on your way in no time.

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Service and Support Animals   

Cdc suspension for dogs entering the u.s. from high-risk countries.

Effective July 14, 2021, the CDC has issued a temporary suspension of dogs:

• From  countries  classified by the CDC as high risk for dog rabies; AND
• That have been in high-risk countries in the last 6 months.

These rules apply to:

• All  dogs, including trained service animals and emotional support dogs (confirmed prior to Jan. 11, 2021) and dogs arriving from countries NOT at high risk if the dogs have been in any   high-risk country, during the previous 6 months.
• Customers who are (1) just visiting the U.S. with their dog, (2) importing dogs into the U.S., or (3) returning to the U.S. with their dog after a temporary visit, such as a vacation or holiday.​​

Dogs from high-risk countries may be imported only with CDC’s advance written approval (CDC Dog Import Permit) – this applies to service animals (SVAN), pet in the cabin (PETC), qualifying military in hold (AVIH) and shipped via Cargo (AVIH).

Acceptable Ports of Entry

After July 14, 2021 , dogs coming from  high-risk countries   with CDC Dog Import Permits can enter the United States at one of these 18  approved ports of entry  airports: Anchorage (ANC), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Honolulu (HNL), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Minneapolis (MSP), New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Philadelphia (PHL), San Francisco (SFO), San Juan (SJU), Seattle (SEA), and Washington, DC (IAD).

Additional Resources

Delta strongly advises Travel Agents to review the  informational page , and  FAQs , provided by the CDC, including eligibility for dog import permits in exceptional circumstances.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAN) and Trained Service Animals (SVAN)

Effective Jan. 11, 2021, Delta will no longer accept emotional support animal (ESAN) bookings on any Delta flight. Delta’s updated policy follows a  final rule  issued last month by the U.S. Department of Transportation, which states carriers are no longer required to recognize emotional support animals as service animals.  

Following the final rule issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Delta will implement the following changes to our Service and Support Animal policies. 

Prior to January 11, 2021  

Trained service animals (svan).

Customers traveling with a Trained Service Animal are not required to provide documentation when traveling on flights.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAN)

Customers traveling with Emotional Support Animals will be required to submit the current  Emotional Support Animal documentation.

Beginning January 11, 2021

Delta will only accept Trained Service Animals. 

A Trained Service Animal is defined as a dog (of any breed) that is trained to perform a function or to assist in the performance of a life function for a qualified individual with a disability including trained functions for individuals with psychological related disabilities. Passengers are limited to a maximum of two Trained Service Animals.

Customers traveling with a Trained Service Animal who are booking travel 48 hours or more prior to departure must submit DOT-provided documentation in advance for validation through the Accessible Travel Form in  My Trips .  Customers booking travel less than 48 hours prior to departure may present this documentation at the check-in counter or the departure gate.  

See table below for documentation requirements and links to applicable forms.

Note: Customers traveling with a Trained Service Animal on January 11 or January 12 can present DOT-provided Service Animal documentation at the departure gate .

Customers will not be permitted to book new travel with an Emotional Support Animal. Customers who wish to travel with a pet may do so according to Delta’s  Pet in Cabin Polic y (PETC).

Note: Delta will honor existing bookings for Emotional Support Animals for travel on or after January 11, 2021 if the required documentation was submitted and the reservation was confirmed by Delta prior to January 11, 2021 .  

Additional Information Regarding Service Animal Policy Changes Effective Jan. 11, 2021: 

• Trained service animals are defined as dogs, regardless of breed, specifically trained to assist a person with a disability.
• Delta will lift its ban on pit bull type dogs provided they meet documentation and behavior requirements for trained service animals; however, in line with Delta’s current policy, pit bull type dogs will not be allowed to travel as emotional support animals for those customers ticketed and confirmed by Delta before Jan. 11.
• A customer with a disability using a trained service animal (SVAN) may be seated anywhere in their cabin of purchase except an exit row. This includes Delta One, Business or First Class. 
• Delta will continue to deny boarding to any trained service animal that poses a threat or demonstrates behavior that is aggressive or inappropriate in a public setting (barking, growling, uncontrolled bodily functions, etc.). ​
• Delta will continue to work with its Advisory Board on Disability to ensure this new rule is implemented in a manner that improves the travel experience for all our customers.

Other Helpful Information - Flying with a Trained Service Animal

• Limit of 2 SVANs (dogs only) will be accepted 
• SVANs will be accepted regardless of breed  
• A SVAN in training does not meet qualifications for a trained animal and cannot ride in cabin. Delta will permit a SVAN in training provided it is traveling with a professional trainer en route to its owner.
• All animals must be able to fit safely on the floor in the foot space of the customer. 
• Unaccompanied animals are not permitted in the cabin.

PNR and Other Documentation Requirements

Customers traveling with a trained service or emotional support or psychiatric service animal must contact Global Sales Support or  Delta Reservations  prior to departure ,  to advise that they are traveling so that the customer’s PNR is properly documented. Effective January 11, 2021, emotional support animal bookings will no longer be accepted.

Seat Assignment and Seating Restrictions

A customer traveling with a service animal must have a seat assigned prior to departure. If a customer is traveling with a service animal they should:

• Service and support animals must be seated in the floor space below a seat, or in a passenger’s lap. 
• The size of the animal must not exceed the “footprint” of the passenger’s seat.

With larger service or support animals or for passengers with multiple service animals, we may need to re-accommodate a customer if the animal encroaches on other passengers or extends into aisles, which would be a violation of FAA regulations. 

No animals are allowed to occupy seats that are designed for passengers.

If a customer needs additional time to board the aircraft, pre-boarding is available.  Please advise the customer to arrive at the gate with enough time to make arrangements with the gate agents prior to departure.  

NOTE: If a customer encounters any issues with their service animal while at the airport or on board, please advise them to speak to a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO). These trained Delta representatives are ready to assist passengers with accessibility rights and needs.

Unacceptable Service/Support Animals

Delta does not accept the following as trained service or emotional support animals confirmed by Delta prior to January 11, 2021. These animals pose safety and/or public health concerns.  If you have additional questions, please contact the accessibility assistance line at 404-209-3434 or Delta Reservations . 

• Sugar gliders
• Amphibians (frogs, etc.)
• Non-household birds (farm poultry, waterfowl, game bird, & birds of prey)
• Animals improperly cleaned and/or with a foul odor
• Animals with tusk or hooves

Inappropriate Service or Support Animal Behavior

Delta understands how important trained service and emotional support animals are to customers. We will only refuse transportation of a trained service animal (or an emotional support animal confirmed before Jan. 11, 2021) if it engages in disruptive or aggressive behavior such as: 

• Growling 
• Jumping on passengers 
• Relieving themselves in the gate area or cabin
• Barking excessively, not in response to a handler’s need or distress
• Eating off seatback tray tables

Location Restrictions and International Travel Requirements

It is important to remember that some locations such as Hawaii, the U.K. and other island nations have additional requirements and quarantine laws that may not permit the entry or transit of animals. See  Pet Travel Health Requirements for more information. Contact Delta at 404-209-3434 or visit the local government’s consulate website to learn the requirements for any transit points as well as for your final destination. 

In addition, acceptance policies for trained service animals may vary by country. Prior to purchasing a ticket, contact Global Sales Support or  Delta Reservations for assistance with appropriate information concerning transportation of any service or support animals outside of the U.S.

Service and Support Animal FAQs

Some helpful Service and Support Animal FAQs are available on delta.com .

Additional information is available for transporting non-service animals as Pets in Cabin (PETC) or Pets in Hold (AVIH) or transporting pets via Delta Cargo .

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Flying with Your Service Dog on Delta Airlines: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling with Your Service Dog on Delta Airlines: A Comprehensive Guide

About delta airlines, the americans with disabilities act (ada), the air carrier access act (aca), current regulations, the u.s. dot service animal air travel form, the dot relief attestation form, step 2: in-flight arrangements, step 3: checking-in and boarding, quarantine regulations, service dog behavior.

Navigating air travel with your service dog can seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation, the journey can be made seamless. Although service dogs are protected by federal laws, you need to follow certain guidelines to ensure a hassle-free flight. This guide will elucidate the process of flying with your service dog on Delta Airlines.

Holding the title of the world’s most awarded airline, Delta Airlines is a preferred choice for countless travelers. In 2021, it clinched the No. 1 position in the J.D. Power and Associates North America Airline Satisfaction Study. Serving 200 million passengers each year, Delta Airlines connects over 50 countries and 300 destinations.

Legal Protection for a Service Dog on Delta Airlines During Travel

When you’re traveling on Delta Airlines with your service dog, two primary federal laws are applicable:

The ADA ensures the rights of individuals with disabilities, extending this protection to their service dogs. These dogs undergo specialized training to assist individuals with disabilities, playing an instrumental role in ensuring the safety and well-being of their handler.

The ACA is specific to air travel, allowing disabled individuals to travel with their service dogs without any additional pet fees or regulations.

Flying with Your Service Dog on Delta Airlines: A Step-by-Step Guide

As of now, Delta Airlines only permits service dogs on board. They discontinued reservations for emotional support dogs (ESA) since January 11, 2021. A passenger can travel with a maximum of two trained service dogs.

Step 1: Pre-Flight Documentation

Before you fly with your service dog on Delta Airlines, two forms need to be completed:

This form affirms your service dog’s health, behavior, and training. For flights booked 48 hours or more prior to departure, it’s submitted via the Accessibility Request form on the “My Trips” webpage. If your flight is booked less than 48 hours before departure, it can be handed in at the check-in counter or departure gate.

This form is required for flights that last 8 hours or more. It’s a declaration from the service dog handler about the dog’s ability to relieve itself in a sanitary manner or assurance that the dog won’t need to relieve itself during the flight.

When flying with a service dog, it’s recommended to choose a seat that will comfortably accommodate the dog. The service dog must be seated on the floor below the seat or, if small enough, on the handler’s lap. Service dogs should not occupy a seat, eat off the tray tables, extend into the aisle, or intrude on another customer’s space.

If the dog is too large or might cause obstructions, it may be checked in as baggage free of charge. Alternatively, you can purchase a second ticket for the service animal, subject to seat availability.

Allow extra time for check-in and boarding when traveling with a service animal. Additional documentation and accommodations might prolong the boarding process, so it’s prudent to factor in some extra time.

Also, it’s wise to let your service dog relieve itself before the flight, irrespective of the duration. All U.S. airports have designated animal relief areas.

Do I qualify for a support dog?

Take the support dog certification quiz now and you'll gain a better understanding of the type of assistance you require and the potential benefits of having a service dog registration or an emotional support animal registration.

Other Considerations

Certain destinations might not allow the entry of animals, including service animals, due to quarantine rules. It’s advisable to check the animal requirements of your destination before booking the flight.

Delta Airlines can refuse to accommodate a service dog if it exhibits undesirable behaviors such as biting, growling, jumping on people, inappropriately relieving itself, barking excessively, or eating from tray tables.

For any additional queries about flying with a service dog on Delta Airlines, you can directly get in touch with Delta’s customer service at 404-209-3434. Safe and pleasant travels to you and your service dog!

Register your support dog online now to receive your instant Service Dog Registration, Service Dog certificate and Service Dog Certification Documents

• Flying with Your Service Dog on Delta Airlines , register service dog

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Delta Air Lines Tightens Rules for Service and Support Animals

By Tiffany Hsu

• Jan. 19, 2018

Delta Air Lines said on Friday that it was tightening its rules for transporting service and support animals in an effort to reduce misbehavior by dogs and other creatures that air carriers are required by law to allow on board.

Service dogs are specially trained to aid people with disabilities. Emotional support animals provide comfort and companionship to their owners and do not require coaching.

Delta, which carries nearly 250,000 such animals a year, said that starting March 1, it would require documentation about their health and, in some instances, a promise of good conduct. The new rules make Delta’s policy among the most demanding among major carriers.

The number of service and support animals, which federal regulations say must fly at no cost and uncaged, with some exceptions, has surged 150 percent on Delta planes since 2015. Customers, the airline said in announcing the move, had “attempted to fly with comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and more.”

But the surge has brought more instances of conflict among passengers, some of whom have complained about allergies and other disturbances, as well as abuses of the policy, with some travelers trying to avoid the costs of flying with regular pets.

Flying with a pet that does not perform a special service generally costs more than $100, and the animal must generally be kept under the seat in a carrier or put in a kennel and checked in.

On average, Delta flights carry more than 500 support animals and nearly 200 service animals each day. Airlines are not required to accommodate certain service animals, including ferrets, rodents and reptiles.

But safety concerns related to the animals allowed to accompany passengers have climbed sharply. Reports of in-flight animal incidents have risen 84 percent since 2016, a result of “a lack of regulation,” Delta said. More untrained animals are being brought onto planes, where they urinate, defecate, bark, growl, lunge and exhibit other behavior uncommon among companions that are properly taught.

In June, a 70-pound support dog mauled a passenger on a Delta flight in Atlanta, biting the man’s face multiple times.

Delta hopes “to find a solution that supports those customers with a legitimate need for these animals, while prioritizing a safe and consistent travel experience,” John Laughter, the airline’s senior vice president of safety, security and compliance, said in a statement on Friday.

As of March 1, passengers with service or support animals will have to submit proof of health or vaccinations through Delta’s website at least 48 hours before their flight.

Customers with psychiatric service animals and emotional support animals must also sign a document attesting to the animals’ ability to behave in the cabin or risk being barred from boarding or removed from the plane.

Delta does not require evidence that the animal has graduated from obedience school. Current rules at Delta and other airlines require travelers to provide a letter prepared and signed by a doctor or a licensed mental health professional explaining why the animal needs to be on board.

Airlines, however, have grumbled that it is difficult to verify the legitimacy of such letters. Many passengers have tried to evade the high cost and hassle of traveling with their pets by giving them a service or support designation.

Other passengers have complained of comfort animals triggering allergic reactions, sprawling over arm rests and causing ruckuses.

Eric Lipp, the executive director of Open Doors Organization, a nonprofit group that supports disabled travelers and tourists, described Delta’s new policy as “unfortunate” and “extreme.”

“People have abused the privilege and ruined the image of service animals,” Mr. Lipp said. “And now they’re creating a whole lot more hassle for disabled people to travel, penalizing them for needing a service animal, putting another roadblock in front of them.”

Charles Hobart, a spokesman for United Airlines, said the company was reviewing its existing policy on the animals to “better balance” employee and passenger protection with accommodations for disabled customers.

Ross Feinstein, a spokesman for American Airlines, said the company agreed with Delta’s efforts and was also “looking at additional requirements.”

The federal Transportation Department said in an email on Friday that it planned to solicit public comments this summer on the appropriate definition of a service animal and suggestions for strategies to prevent travelers from abusing that definition.

“Air travel should be safe for passengers and airline employees and accessible for all passengers,” the agency said in a statement. “We will monitor Delta’s policy to ensure that it preserves and respects the rights of individuals with disabilities who travel with service animals.”

The agency has made other moves in recent years to address the increase in service and support animals.

It now requires that hundreds of airports in the United States set aside areas in each terminal, accessible by wheelchair, for service animals to relieve themselves . Individual airports have also tried to cater to the animals’ needs, with Kennedy International Airport opening a luxurious, 80,000-square-foot animal center last year with “pawdicures” for dogs and high-end horse stalls.

Tiffany Hsu on Twitter: @tiffkhsu .

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DogTV, a pay-TV service designed for dogs who are stuck at home alone, hopes to tap into a huge new audience of pandemic puppies  — plus their owners.

Delta to no longer accept emotional support animals; DOT documentation required for trained service dogs   

Beginning Jan. 11, emotional support animals will no longer be ticketed on any Delta flight 

Customers traveling with trained service dogs will be required to fill out DOT documentation confirming the animal meets training and health qualifications 

Delta will lift its ban on pit bull type dogs provided they meet documentation requirements for trained service animals 

Effective Jan. 11, Delta will no longer accept emotional support animal bookings on any Delta flight. Delta’s updated policy follows a  final rule  issued last month by the U.S. Department of Transportation, which states carriers are no longer required to recognize emotional support animals as service animals.  

“We applaud the DOT for making this change and acknowledging the concerns that Delta and many other stakeholders have raised for the past several years,” said Allison Ausband – S.V.P., In-Flight Service. “The DOT’s final rule enables airlines to put the safety of all employees and customers first, while protecting the rights of customers who need to travel with trained service animals.”  

Delta’s updated policy includes input and guidance from our frontline teams, as well as recommendations from Delta’s Advisory Board on Disability.  

“Delta’s updated policy follows a nearly 85 percent increase in animal incidents since 2016, including urination, defecation and biting,” said David Garrison – S.V.P. Corporate Safety and Security. “Our top priority is the health, safety and comfort of Delta customers and our people. We strongly believe this policy change will enhance the overall travel experience for everyone.” 

 Service animal policy changes effective Jan. 11, 2021: 

Delta will no longer accept new bookings for emotional support animals. 

Customers who hold a ticket with their emotional support animal(s) confirmed for travel prior to Jan 11. may still travel as planned on Delta. 

Trained service animals are defined as dogs regardless of breed, specifically trained to assist a person with a disability. 

Delta will lift its ban on pit bull type dogs that meet documentation requirements for trained service animals; however, in line with Delta’s current policy, pit bull type dogs will not be allowed to travel as emotional support animals for those customers ticketed and confirmed before Jan. 11. 

Customers traveling with a trained service dog(s) should submit DOT documentation via  Delta.com  attesting to the dog’s health, training and behavior 48 hours prior to departure. If travel is booked less than 48 hours prior to departure, a customer may present the documentation at the ticket counter or at the departure gate.  

Customers traveling with a trained service dog on flights scheduled for eight hours or more must also submit a DOT Relief Attestation form available on  Delta.com  attesting that the dog will not relieve itself in the aircraft or can do so without causing health or sanitization issues. 

Delta will continue to deny boarding to any trained service animal that poses a threat or demonstrates aggressive or inappropriate behavior in a public setting.

Customers may continue to elect to travel with a pet in cabin if they meet  Delta’s Travel Policy  requirements. 

More information on Delta’s updated service animal policy, which takes effect on Jan. 11, is available on  Delta.com .

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Service Animals

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) a service animal means a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.  Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals.

Things to Know

Which service animal species are airlines required to recognize and transport?

• Airlines are required to recognize dogs as service animals and accept them for transport on flights to, within and from the United States.  Airlines, though not required, are free to transport other species for passengers if they choose to do so

Under what circumstances may airlines deny transport to a service dog?

• Violates safety requirements - e.g., too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin;
• Poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others;
• Causes a significant disruption in the cabin or at airport gate areas; or
• Violates health requirements - e.g., prohibited from entering a U.S. territory or foreign country.
• Airlines may also deny transport to a service dog if the airline requires completed DOT service animal forms and the service animal user does not provide the airline these forms.

How do airlines determine whether an animal is a service animal?

• Asking an individual with a disability if the animal is required to accompany the passenger because of a disability and what work or task the animal has been trained to perform;
• Looking for physical indicators such as the presence of a harness or vests;
• Looking to see if the animal is harnessed, leashed, or otherwise tethered; and
• Observing the behavior of the animal.

What kind of documentation can be required of persons travelling with service animals?

• (1) a U.S. DOT form attesting to the animal’s health, behavior, and training ; and
• (2) a U.S. DOT form attesting that the animal can either not relieve itself or can relieve itself in a sanitary manner, if the animal will be on a flight that is 8 or more hours . 
• Airlines are not permitted to require other documentation from service animal users except to comply with requirements on transport of animals by a Federal agency, a U.S. territory, or a foreign jurisdiction.

Tips for Traveling with a Service Animal

At the airport

• If your service animal needs to relieve itself, please ask an airport or airline professional for the location of the nearest service animal relief areas.

Onboard the aircraft

• Your service animal must be permitted to accompany you in the space under the seat in front of you.
• Certain small service animals may be permitted to sit on your lap, if it can be done so safely.
• Your service animal cannot block a space that must remain unobstructed for safety reasons (ex. an aisle or access to an emergency exit).
• An airline is not required to upgrade you to a different class of service to accommodate your service animal.
• Airlines cannot refuse to allow your service animal onboard because it makes other passengers or flight crew uncomfortable.
• Your service animal must behave properly. An animal that engages in disruptive behavior (ex. barking or snarling, running around, and/or jumping onto other passengers, etc. without being provoked) will not be accepted as a service animal.

Traveling outside of the United States?

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning to fly outside of the United States with your service animal.

• U.S. airlines traveling to foreign countries are subject to the requirements of that foreign country regarding acceptance of service animals; not all countries permit service animals from other foreign countries.
• Check to ensure whether your destination country permits your animal and any other requirements to enter and exit legally.

Encounter A Problem?

• If you believe your rights under the Air Carrier Access Act are being or have been violated, ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Official (CRO). A CRO is the airline’s expert on disability accommodation issues. Airlines are required to make one available to you, at no cost, in person at the airport or by telephone during the times they are operating.

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Military Pet Travel

Military pet travel details.

Military members and U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officers can check their pets as baggage for a fee, when traveling on active transfer orders. You or your spouse must book your pets as checked baggage at least 48 hours before arrival. Pets must comply with federal regulations, including proper documentation based on current policies and procedures. The following fees apply. 

NOTE: CAD amount will be charged exit Canada, and EUR amount will be charged exit Europe. Fees established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance will apply.

Accepted Animals

The following animals are accepted as checked baggage and you may transport two crates per flight. Giant-sized crates may only be shipped as cargo ; additional restrictions apply according to aircraft and class of service.

• Cats ( except snub-nosed cats )
• Dogs ( except pug or snub-nosed dogs )
• Household birds (domestic U.S. only)
• Guinea pigs (domestic U.S. only)
• Rabbits (domestic U.S. only)
• Hamsters (domestic U.S. only)

All other animals, including reptiles and primates (including lemurs, monkeys, orangutans, gorillas and chimpanzees), must be shipped as cargo .

• Animal fees are charged each time the pet is checked in at the airport. Fees will be assessed at each stopover point
• Exceptions may apply to routings that require connections greater than 6 hours.
• Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance or the free baggage allowance with a Delta SkyMiles American Express Card
• No excess size or weight fees apply

Accepted Crates

To transport your pet as checked baggage, you must use an approved shipping crate, and it must ship in accordance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines. The crate must provide enough room for your pet to stand and sit erect — without the head touching the top of the container — and to turn around and lie down in a natural position.

Crates are available for sale to booked Delta passengers and shippers at most Delta Cargo locations, as well as many pet supply stores. If you would like to purchase a crate from Delta, check with the local cargo facility for availability of the crate size you need in advance of your travel date.

In addition, USDA rules state that the crate must:

• Be constructed of rigid plastic, wood, metal or material of comparable strength with solid roofs; no cardboard kennels
• Must not have wheels (if your crate does have wheels they must be removed or inoperable)
• Have ventilation openings on 3 sides, in addition to the door opening.  Ventilation must cover only the upper 2/3 of the crate. 
• Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals
• Close securely to allow personnel to open it in case of emergency.  Zip ties will be applied prior to shipment to ensure the door does not open in transit. 
• Display labels with the words "Live Animal" in 1-inch letters on the crate's top and on at least 1 side
• Display upright arrow labels indicating crate's correct position; Delta Cargo can provide these labels
• Contain bedding, shredded paper or towels to absorb “accidents”
• Contain 2 dishes (1 for food and 1 for water) attached to the inside of the crate door — they must be easily accessible to Delta agents without opening the kennel door
• Display feeding instructions and food, if applicable — these instructions should be affixed to the top of the crate, along with shipper and consignee information

The following is a list of crate sizes, costs, and the types of aircraft in which each crate can fit. The crate costs below do not include tax and are subject to change.

*Rates apply to Delta aircraft only. For travel on a Delta Connection Carrier, please contact Reservations .

PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED CRATES

• Crates made entirely of welded mesh, wire mesh, wicker, cardboard or collapsible materials are strictly prohibited
• Crates with an additional opening on the top or sides
• Crates with plastic latches that secure the top and bottom together without hardware, such as metal nuts/bolts

Weather Requirements

To keep your pet safe, we observe a few seasonal restrictions on pet travel. For your pet’s safety, we don’t accept animals as checked baggage during extreme weather. This includes if the temperature exceeds 80 ˚F  (26.5 ˚C) or if the temperature falls below 20 ˚F  (-6.5 ˚C) at any point during the animal’s trip (at origin, transit, or destination). A Certificate of Acclimation is required when temperatures fall between 20˚F (-7˚C) and 45˚F (7˚C).

We reserve the right to refuse travel to any live animals as checked baggage or as cargo if the animal’s health is in question, or if the health of the animal could be jeopardized by extreme conditions.

Location Restrictions

For any travel to, from, or transiting the following destination pets are not permitted as checked baggage:

• Liberia, Costa Rica
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

There are additional requirements or booking rules that must be followed when traveling with animals to or through some locations, including: France, the Netherlands, and countries in the European Union. Please contact the Customer Service Center (1-800-352-2746) for more information.

Pet birds and tropical birds normally kept indoors are at risk if the temperature, at any point on the planned itinerary, is below 50˚F (10˚C).  When temperatures are between 50˚F (10˚C) and 20˚F (-6.7˚C), they are transported at the risk of the shipper. 

Live, wild birds will not be transported unless the person shipping the bird, or shipper's agent certifies in writing on shipper's letterhead with the air waybill, that the birds being shipped were born or bred in captivity or on special farms. Or that the birds are being shipped to or from a zoological garden, wildlife preserve, or government wildlife agency. Transportation is restricted to Delta local services.

Animal Health & Breed Restrictions

Snub- or pug-nosed dogs.

• Affenpinscher
• American Bully
• American Pit Bull Terrier 
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier Bull Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffin (Petite Brabacon)
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogo Argentino
• Douge de Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel 
• Japanese Chin (Japanese Spaniel)
• Lhasa Apso 
• Mastiff (all breeds) 
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier 
• Tibetan Spaniel

SNUB-NOSED CATS

• British Shorthair
• Exotic Shorthair
• Scottish Fold

Aircraft Restrictions

For the safety and comfort of your pet, some restrictions apply to checking your pet as excess baggage. There are no exceptions to these aircraft or flight-level restrictions.

• Animals will not be accepted as checked baggage or cargo on any Delta-operated 767 aircraft.
• Animals will not be accepted as checked baggage on any Delta-operated A330-200 aircraft.   
• Animals will not be accepted as checked baggage on any Delta-operated B757 aircraft on flights to or from Europe. 
• Animals will not be accepted as checked baggage on itineraries with more than 1 connection.
• Animals will not be accepted as checked baggage on any (single) Delta-operated flight that exceeds 12 hours in duration. 

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Delta Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) and Psychiatric Service Dog Policy

The bottom line.

• Does Delta Airlines Still Accept ESA Letters? Delta Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals. However, it does permit service dogs, including psychiatric service dogs to travel in aircraft cabins.
• What Is a PSD Letter? A psychiatric service dog (PSD) letter documents that you have a qualifying disability that legally entitles you to travel with your psychiatric service dog.
• How Do You Get a PSD Letter? You can obtain a PSD letter through Pettable's simple and easy process. You'll complete a short online assessment plus a consultation with a Pettable mental health professional partner.
• How Do You Qualify for a PSD Letter? You must consult with a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). During your evaluation, the LMHP can determine if you're eligible. You must have qualifying mental health or emotional disability such as PTSD, depression, autism, or ADHD.
• How To Get Started? Complete our 3-minute online quiz to find out if you're eligible.

You may have heard about significant changes in airlines' policies on emotional support animals. If you have an ESA and plan to fly with Delta Airlines, you may have some questions. What is the current Delta ESA policy? How does the Delta pet policy apply? To travel with a service animal, what forms are needed, such as a signed veterinary health form? This guide covers ESA rule changes and options for traditional and psychiatric service animals.

Recent Changes to Delta's ESA Policy

Until recently, airlines allowed emotional support animals inside aircraft cabins. That changed in January 2021 with the US DOT's new regulations . Under the updated policy, ESAs are no longer considered service animals. Airlines could now apply their standard pet policies to these animals.

Like many air carriers, Delta updated its policies after the DOT's rule change. Delta's Pets in Cabin policy now applies to former ESAs. Only dogs that perform specific assistive functions for people with disabilities fit the airline's criteria for trained service animals. This gives ESA owners two options who wish to fly with their animal companions:

• Bring along your ESA as a pet, adhering to Delta's pet policies and paying the associated pet fees.
• Have your ESA trained as a psychiatric service dog and obtain a PSD letter from Pettable as proof of your service dog's legitimacy.

These changes mean Pettable no longer offers ESA letters for travel purposes. While the new Delta Airlines' service dog policy includes psychiatric service dogs, you need proper documentation. First and foremost, you must have a completed US DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form . Prep for your next trip with this form, plus an official PSD letter from Pettable.

How to Fly with Your Psychiatric Service Dog on Delta Airlines

You can fly your psychiatric service dog on Delta Airlines, but you must follow the Delta service dog policy. That means submitting the appropriate documentation and adhering to Delta's rules during your flight. Thankfully, you can accomplish these goals with a few smart tips:

• When booking tickets, indicate that you have a service animal.
• Submit the required forms and documents as soon as possible. These include the US DOT's Service Animal Transport Form and your Pettable PSD letter.
• Check ahead for any restrictions, embargos, or quarantine mandates.
• Exercise your dog before leaving for the airport.
• Limit water and avoid overfeeding before your flight.

After arriving at the airport:

• Inform security officers that your dog is a service animal.
• Cooperate during the inspection process and have your documentation ready to present. You may be asked about specific tasks your dog performs.
• Remain courteous and always keep your dog under control.

Do I Qualify For A Psychiatric Service Animal Quiz

1 in 5 Americans experiences mental health illnesses, disorders, or illnesses. A Psychiatric Service Animal can be instrumental in helping people manage such mental health challenges.

How to Get Your Legitimate Psychiatric Service Dog Letter with Pettable

Besides the US DOT Service Animal Transport Form, you may want an official PSD letter for traveling with your psychiatric service dog. Not only will this letter improve your travel experiences with your pup, but you’ll also enjoy benefits in housing, public accommodations, and more. You’ll also need psychiatric service dog training to ensure that your canine companion is up to the tasks that help manage your mental health challenges and improve your life.

At Pettable, we offer a hassle-free, simple process for getting your PSD letter — just follow these easy steps.

Take Our Online Assessment

First, you'll complete a short quiz that asks some basic questions to get information such as:

• What type of animal do you have (or will have)
• Why you need a PSD letter
• When you'll need the letter
• State of residence

After this assessment, there's also a short mental health quiz. The evaluation and examination will help give us a clear picture of your circumstances and needs for a psychiatric service dog.

Meet with a Licensed Mental Health Professional 

Your answers will also help Pettable match you with a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) in your state. Together, you will diagnose your disorder and confirm your need for a PSD. After PSD training, the LMHP can write you an official PSD letter to make your daily life easier and more enjoyable, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Train Your Psychiatric Service Dog

Before you can make it official, you’ll need to either adopt a trained dog or train your current canine companion to perform some specialized tasks that help your mental health condition. The Pettable PSD Training Program is led by our trained professionals and is self-paced to fit your and your dog’s needs and lifestyle. If you are not satisfied with your PSD training program after seven days, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Obtain Your Official PSD Letter

Once you have been diagnosed by an LMHP and completed your PSD training, your PSD letter will be issued within 24-48 hours after your final meeting. With a properly trained dog and an official PSD letter, you’ll have an easier time in your day-to-day life as well as during travel.

What is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)?

Enacted in 1986, the Air Carrier Access Act forbids disability-based discrimination in air travel. This law also defines passengers' rights plus the airlines' obligation to make air travel accessible for passengers with disabilities. 

Essentially, the goals of the ACAA are to:

• Prevent all airlines – foreign and within the US – from discriminating against passengers based on a disability.
• Make airplanes and airport facilities accessible.
• Ensure that airlines take the proper steps to accommodate any passengers with a disability. 

The ACAA covers a lot of ground regarding air travel and individuals with disabilities. Besides prohibiting discriminatory practices, the ACAA requires air carriers to provide accessible facilities and features such as restrooms, removable armrests, and space for folding wheelchairs. It also includes accommodations for assistive devices, mobility aids, and service animals.

Emotional Support Animals under the ACAA 

The original version of the ACAA broadly defined service animals as those "individually trained or able to assist a person with a disability." It also included animals that "assist persons with disabilities by providing emotional support." In 2003, the DOT issued policy guidance accommodating more types of service animals and recognizing that some passengers need to travel with emotional support animals.

Before the DOT's regulation changes in January 2021, emotional support animals fit the ACAA's definition of service animals. ESAs provide critical support to individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, OCD, schizophrenia, and similar conditions. Unfortunately, reports grew of passengers traveling with animals claimed as ESAs without proper documentation. Since psychiatric service dogs offer many of the same benefits as emotional support animals, traveling with a PSD may be viable for passengers with mental health, cognitive, or learning disabilities.

What is the Difference Between an Emotional Support Animal and Psychiatric Service Dog? 

There's some overlap between the assistance provided by an emotional support animal and the functions performed by a psychiatric service dog. Both can help alleviate stress and symptoms that come with an emotional or mental disability. You follow the same process to qualify for either an ESA or a PSD. And the list of mental health conditions that allow an individual for a PSD is the same as it is to prepare for an ESA, including

• Bipolar Disorder
• Personality disorders
• Schizophrenia

So, what is the difference between an emotional support animal and a psychiatric service dog? The critical distinction is the type and level of training. Technically, ESAs are not required to be trained at all. However, a psychiatric service dog must meet two essential guidelines for certification:

• Be well-behaved in public
• Be prepared for specific tasks that alleviate symptoms of your disability

Psychiatric service dogs can do several things to help their human guardians. Standard assistive functions include detecting signs of an impending panic attack and calming the person down.

Additionally, ESAs and PSDs have different legal protections. Both assistance animals are federally required to be given reasonable accommodation to live with their owner in any housing. A psychiatric service animal, however, is also allowed access to most public places and public transportation, while emotional support animals are not. 

Delta Airlines' Service Dog Policies

Delta Airlines' service dog policy only includes trained service animals, defined as "dogs specifically trained to assist a person with a disability." Delta's policy does not focus on a support animal. The airline allows up to two service dogs per passenger, but proper procedures must be followed to ensure they're permitted on your flight. Keep Delta Airlines' stipulations in mind when prepping for your next flight.

Delta's Required Documentations 

Before boarding Delta flights with a service animal, the airline requires customers to complete and submit the US DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form. This form requests vital information about the animal's handler, vaccination record, and completed training. You must also agree to have your service dog leashed, harnessed, or tethered inside the airport and onboard the airplane. Finally, you must accept financial responsibility for any damage your service animal may cause.

For flights lasting eight hours or longer, there's one additional form you'll need to submit. By completing the DOT Relief Attestation Form , you certify that your service animal either a) will not need to relieve itself during the flight or b) can relieve itself in a sanitary manner.

Advanced Notice 

For flights scheduled 48 hours or more in the future, you can submit all required forms through Delta's My Trips webpage. If your flight is expected to leave in less than 48 hours, you can present your completed Service Animal Air Travel Form, Relief Attestation Form, and PSD letter in person at the check-in counter or departure gate.

Delta PSD Letter Policies

Although the Delta Airline PSD Policies don’t require a PSD letter, having one can save you a lot of hassle. To travel with you, the only requirements are updated vaccinations, proper training, and a completed US DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form. However, a legitimate PSD letter can expedite the process by guaranteeing officials that your dog is trained and prepared to fly with you.

Other Delta Pet Policies to Know

Delta's pet fees.

While official PSDs and physical service animals can travel in the cabin with you at no cost, pets and emotional service animals require a fee, either as a carry-on or shipped via Delta Cargo. These fees vary based on where you are traveling to and from:

• U.S./Canada/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands: $95 USD/CAD for tickets issued after February 28, 2022.
• International: $200 USD/CAD/EUR
• Brazil: $75 USD

Delta Cargo fees for larger animals can vary, including a base fee plus additional fees based on the animal's weight. Contact the airline for specific information, as pet shipping fees are on a case-by-case basis.

Delta's Breed Restrictions

To ensure the safe travel and well-being of pets, Delta has a number of breed restrictions for animals conveyed through its cargo service. Snub- or pug-nosed breeds face a greater risk of overheating due to their condensed facial structures, for example. Prohibited breeds include:

• Affenpinscher
• American Bully (all breeds)
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier Pug (all breeds)
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Bull Terrier (all breeds)
• Bulldog (all breeds)  
• Chow Chow  
• English Toy Spaniel  
• Japanese Chin (Japanese Spaniel)  
• King Charles Spaniel (Cavalier King)
• Mastiffs (all breeds)

As for carry-on pets, Delta does not cite specific breed restrictions. However, you may want to double-check with the airline before booking your ticket. Service dogs, regardless of breed, can travel on Delta if they meet proper documentation and behavior requirements. This includes pit bull-type dogs working as service animals.

Delta's Pet Carrier Size Requirements

To travel in an aircraft cabin, your pet must be able to fit inside a small, ventilated carrier that slides under the seat in front of you. Since under-seat space can vary, Delta recommends using a soft-sided carrier measuring 18 by 11 by 11 inches or smaller. The allowable size may differ from this, depending on the aircraft. For a specific recommendation on kennel size, contact Delta Reservations. Your pet must also fit comfortably within the kennel or carrier, able to move around and not protrude from the sides.

Animals Not Permitted on Delta Flights

For the safety of everyone involved, numerous animals are not permitted on Delta flights but are possibly eligible to fly as checked baggage or with Delta Cargo. These include:

• Non-household birds (farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, and birds of prey)
• Animals improperly cleaned and/or exhibiting excessive odors
• Animals with, horns, hooves, or tusks

Delta's Travel Requirements

As of July 14, 2021, the CDC temporarily prohibits dogs from traveling from countries at high risk for dog rabies . Within the last six months, dogs in high-risk countries are also temporarily suspended from flying. This includes pets and trained service animals alike. 

Carry-on access permits smaller animals such as cats, pet birds, and small dogs to accompany you in the cabin. Your pet must meet specific requirements and be housed in a carrier during the flight. Only one pet is permitted per kennel unless you're transporting a nursing female with her litter or two pets of the same breed and size between 10 weeks and six months, as long as they are small enough to fit in one kennel. Some pets, such as larger dogs, cannot travel in the cabin. They may travel via the Delta Cargo service.

Pets may travel on Delta's domestic flights if they are at least ten weeks old.

International

Pets traveling on international flights must be at least 16 weeks old. On flights to EU nations, pets must be at least 15 weeks of age.

Delta does not transport pets in the cabin to or from these locations:

• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Delta's pet policy on domestic flights applies to animals on incoming flights to the US.

Pettable's Tips on How to Fly with Your ESA and Psychiatric Service Dogs

Assess your dog's comfort with air travel.

While many service dogs develop calm temperaments, not every dog can handle being on an airplane. Speak with your vet about options for helping your dog, but don't automatically assume that sedation is necessary.

Know Airline Policies

Airlines' ESA and service animal policies can change at any time. Before purchasing your ticket, check with the carrier for its current rules. Don't assume that you can fly with your ESA, even if you have in the past.

Keep Documentation Accessible

You should have all applicable documentation ready to present at the airport. This includes your PSD letter from Pettable plus forms required by the DOT and the airline. Your documentation should state what tasks your animal performs to assist you.

Come Prepared

On the day of your flight, arrive at the airport as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time for checking in, checking baggage, going through security, letting your animal relieve themselves, and boarding the plane. Have your completed DOT forms and PSD letter handy. Double-check your flight's status before you get to the airport, and try to exercise your dog before take-off to encourage sleepiness during the flight. And be sure to watch out for any gate or flight time changes. 

Staying around the gate area can help Delta employees be aware that they have a service animal or even a regular pet and will need to have special accommodations. While certain animals can stay in the passenger's lap, there are requirements for trained service dogs, especially if they have specific training.

Help Your Dog Stay Comfortable

Bring along pee pads in case of an accident. If your dog has to go while you're on the plane, take them to the restroom and put the pee pad on the floor. While at the airport, be aware of the location of the nearest animal relief area. 

Dogs can experience motion sickness just like humans, so avoid overfeeding them before your flight. You may also consider bringing along a chew toy to relieve discomfort from pressure build-up in your dog's ears during take-off and landing. 

Bring your PSD along for the trip - get started on your PSD letter !

Do service dogs fly for free on Delta?

Dogs that meet Delta's Trained Service Animal criteria travel for no charge.

Does Delta allow ESA dogs?

If your dog is only classified as an emotional support animal, it's subject to Delta pet policy for fees and kenneling. Psychiatric service dogs can perform specific functions and fly for free.

Can Delta deny my ESA? 

Delta views your ESA as a pet without documented proof of being a service animal. Animals not conforming to Delta pet policy may not be allowed on its flights.

Which airlines are still allowing ESA dogs?

Most airlines have chosen not to recognize emotional support animals. Fortunately, a couple airlines still allow ESA dogs on specific routes: Latam Airlines and Volaris. These carriers typically offer flights between Canada and Mexico from the United States. Additionally, several international carriers still permit some emotional support animals:

• China Airlines
• Singapore Air

Before purchasing a ticket, you should check with the airline for specifics on their ESA policies. Some carriers only permit ESA dogs, while others require ESAs to be under a certain weight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a Delta flight?

No. Service dogs must be on a rope, harness, or leash. Pets, formerly covered by Delta ESA policy, must be housed in appropriate-sized carriers.

Are service dogs with Delta strict?

Delta adheres to legal obligations to accommodate and accept trained service animals on a flight. They will, however, deny a trained service dog boarding on a plane if that animal poses a threat to the health and safety of others or shows aggressive or inappropriate behavior in public. 

Can a service dog sit on your lap during a flight?

A service dog on a Delta flight must sit either in your foot space or on your lap, as long as they fit. This means a service animal can sit on your lap as long as they are no bigger than a child under two years old. Your dog is permitted to sit on your lap during all stages of the flight, including take-off and landing. Service animals may not occupy seats or be in the cabin free of restraints. They must be adequately trained and cannot be in the cabin barking excessively or taking up other passengers' floor space.

What is Delta's ESA policy?

Delta no longer accepts emotional support animals. This is in line with the ACAA's 2021 update, which no longer requires airline regulations to recognize ESAs like service animals. Instead, ESAs are recognized as pets, and owners who wish to travel with an emotional support animal must adhere to all Delta's fees and policies. 

Are ESA allowed on planes in 2022?

Yes, but no longer in the same capacity as a service animal (with most airlines). Emotional support animals are allowed on planes as pets, submitting to all rules and fees that typically apply to pets on that airline. If the dog shows disruptive or aggressive behavior, Delta's current policy states they are allowed to deny the service animal.

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Delta introduces enhanced requirements for customers traveling with service or support animals effective March 1

Delta carries more than 250,000 service and support animals annually, an increase of nearly 150 percent since 2015.

ATLANTA , Jan. 19, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --  Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) is taking steps to further protect its customers, employees and service and support animals by implementing advance documentation requirements for those animals. This comes as a result of a lack of regulation that has led to serious safety risks involving untrained animals in flight. The new requirements support Delta's top priority of ensuring safety for its customers, employees and trained service and support animals, while supporting the rights of customers with legitimate needs, such as disabled veterans, to travel with trained animals.

Delta carries approximately 700 service or support animals daily - nearly 250,000 annually. Putting this into perspective, Delta carries more than 180 million passengers annually. Customers have attempted to fly with comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and more. Ignoring the true intent of existing rules governing the transport of service and support animals can be a disservice to customers who have real and documented needs. Delta has seen an 84 percent increase in reported animal incidents since 2016, including urination/defecation, biting and even a widely reported attack by a 70-pound dog . In 2017, Delta employees reported increased acts of aggression (barking, growling, lunging and biting) from service and support animals, behavior not typically seen in these animals when properly trained and working.

New Procedures & Updated Requirements In compliance with the Air Carrier Access Act, Delta provides in-cabin travel for service and support animals without charge. The guidelines, effective March 1 , require that all customers traveling with a service or support animal show proof of health or vaccinations 48 hours in advance. In addition to the current requirement of a letter prepared and signed by a doctor or licensed mental health professional, those with psychiatric service animals and emotional support animals will also need to provide a signed document confirming that their animal can behave to prevent untrained, sometimes aggressive household pets from traveling without a kennel in the cabin. These measures are intended to help ensure that those customers traveling with a trained service or support animal will no longer be at risk of untrained pets attacking their working animal, as has previously been reported .

John Laughter , Delta's Senior Vice President – Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance. "As a leader in safety, we worked with our Advisory Board on Disability to find a solution that supports those customers with a legitimate need for these animals, while prioritizing a safe and consistent travel experience."

In developing the updated requirements, Delta solicited the feedback and input of its 15-member Advisory Board on Disability , a group of disability advocates established more than a decade ago and composed of diverse Delta frequent flyers with a range of disabilities.

Air Carrier Access Act As the Title 14 Code of Federal Aviation Regulations § 382.117 dictates, "you must permit the service animal to accompany the passenger with a disability at any seat in which the passenger sits, unless the animal obstructs an aisle or other area that must remain unobstructed to facilitate an emergency evacuation." However, untrained animals that have been misidentified as service and support animals are regularly reported to occupy seats, stretch across the aisles and move throughout the cabin during flight, often without restriction. That same regulation also requires that airlines determine whether any factors preclude travel in the cabin by a service animal. Such factors include: "whether the animal would pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others" and "whether it would cause a significant disruption of cabin service."

"We are committed to consistently improving our policies, prioritizing the safety of all Delta customers and employees," said Laughter. "We have received extensive customer feedback through calls, emails and social posts – many from among those within the disability community – urging Delta to take action. This new policy is our first step in better protecting those who fly with Delta with a more thoughtful screening process."

What Customers with Service and Support Animals Need To Know

Any customer traveling with a service or support animal on/after March 1 will need to meet the new requirements as outlined below:

Traveling with a trained service animal

• Customers traveling with a trained service animal will be required to submit a signed Veterinary Health Form and/or an immunization record (current within one year of the travel date) for their animal to Delta's Service Animal Support Desk via Delta.com at least 48 hours in advance of travel.

Traveling with an emotional support animal or psychiatric service animal

• Customers traveling with an emotional support animal or psychiatric service animal will be required to submit a signed Veterinary Health Form and/or an immunization record (current within one year of the travel date), an Emotional Support/Psychiatric Service Animal Request form which requires a letter prepared and signed by a doctor or licensed mental health professional, and a signed Confirmation of Animal Training form to Delta's Service Animal Support Desk via Delta.com at least 48 hours in advance of travel.

Delta is creating a Service Animal Support Desk for customers traveling with service and support animals to improve their travel experience and ensure they receive excellent customer service. This desk will verify that the above documentation is received and confirm the customer's reservation to travel with the animal, prior to arrival at the airport. If a form is not completed, a representative will communicate with the customer via e-mail to request the missing or incomplete items.

Delta does not accept exotic or unusual service or support animals. Additional information on types of accepted animals and other questions related to traveling with service and support animals is available here.

Paris-Charles de Gaulle , Salt Lake City , São Paulo, Seattle , Seoul , and Tokyo - Narita . Delta has invested billions of dollars in airport facilities, global products and services, and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Additional information is available on the Delta News Hub , as well as delta.com , Twitter @DeltaNewsHub , Google.com/+Delta , and Facebook.com/delta .

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Travel | An emergency slide falls off a California-bound…

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Travel | google, sap america trim dozens of bay area jobs as tech layoffs widen, travel | an emergency slide falls off a california-bound delta plane, forcing pilots to return to new york.

NEW YORK — An emergency slide fell off a Delta Air Lines jetliner shortly after takeoff Friday from New York, and pilots who felt a vibration in the plane circled back to land safely at JFK Airport.

Delta said that after takeoff the pilots got an alert about the emergency slide on the plane’s right side and heard an unusual sound coming from that area of the Boeing 767 jet, which is listed as having been manufactured in 1990.

The Federal Aviation Administration said the crew reported a vibration.

Pilots declared an emergency so the flight could be be routed quickly back to the airport, and the plane landed and taxied to a gate under its own power, according to the airline.

Delta said the plane was removed from service for evaluation and it was cooperating with investigators and supporting efforts to find the slide.

“As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK,” the airline said in a statement.

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Delta is reinforcing its No. 1 position as the largest U.S. carrier to Africa this winter by relaunching daily* service to Lagos, Nigeria (LOS), from  New York-JFK on Dec. 1. Fleet enhancements in service to Accra, Ghana (ACC), and South Africa are also underway. 

The airline carries more than half a million customers between the U.S. and Africa each year on more than 34 weekly flights. 

“These enhancements reflect our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers,” said Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning. “We’re expanding our options for customers to experience the premium service and elevated hospitality they expect from Delta.”    Delta currently operates daily service between Atlanta and Lagos and, with the resumption of daily New York-JFK service, will offer a total of 14 weekly flights to Nigeria in December through the first half of January and 10 weekly flights for the remainder of winter 2024. 

Customers on this flight will have a choice of Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin experiences on the  Airbus A330-200 . Once on board, customers in Delta One can look forward to an extensive food and beverage program that includes thoughtfully curated menu options, as well as specialty snacks and premium beer, wine and spirits. Customers flying in Delta Premium Select will have more space to relax and stretch out, with a wider seat, deeper recline, an adjustable footrest and leg rest. 

All customers can enjoy a wide selection of in-flight entertainment options – movies, TV series, music, podcasts and more – via Delta Studio. Delta also partners with diverse suppliers worldwide for in-flight products such as artisan-crafted amenity kits and beverages like Thrive Farmers Tea.

Premium upgrades in service to Ghana and South Africa 

As the first U.S. airline to initiate service to Ghana, Delta remains the largest operator in the U.S.-Ghana market, offering year-round daily service from New York-JFK.  

Furthermore, in late October 2024, Delta will upgrade its aircraft serving Ghana to the 281-seat Airbus A330-900neo , adding nearly 1,000 more seats each week, providing 30% more capacity between Ghana and the U.S. The aircraft features four differentiated cabin experiences: Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin.

Delta One Suites feature a sliding door for enhanced privacy, memory-foam mattress and soft bedding made from recycled materials. Delta One customers can also enjoy more beverage options and a seasonal chef-curated four-course meal.      Delta is also upgrading its aircraft from Atlanta to South Africa, where it operates 10 weekly flights year-round to Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT). With the introduction of the higher-premium 35H  Airbus A350-900 , this upgrade will provide an additional eight Delta One Suite seats, bringing the total to 40, along with improved operational performance. Customers can look forward to these changes for JNB effective Jun. 20 and CPT on Sept. 9.   For more information and to book travel, visit delta.com . 

*This route will initially fly daily, shifting to three times per week on Jan. 16, 2025. 

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Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It drives everything on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters managed within the Refuge System, from the purposes for which a national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. Learn more about national wildlife refuge is established, to the recreational activities offered, to the resource management tools used. Using conservation best practices, the Refuge System manages Service lands and waters to help ensure the survival of native wildlife species.   

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Delta flight safely returns to JFK Airport after malfunction with emergency slide on way to LAX

A Delta flight had to turn around after departing John F. Kennedy International Airport on Friday morning for an emergency equipment malfunction.

Delta Airlines Flight 520 declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport around 8:35 a.m. after the crew reported a vibration, the Federal Aviation Administration said.

The pilots reported vibrations and banging sounds to air traffic control just after takeoff and the plane was in the air for 33 minutes before it returned to JFK.

Delta said that the emergency slide had separated from the aircraft when it returned back to the gate.

"After the aircraft had safely landed and proceeded to a gate, it was observed that the emergency slide had separated from the aircraft," a spokesperson said. "Delta is fully supporting retrieval efforts and will fully cooperate in investigations."

There were 176 customers, two pilots and five flight attendants on board.

After the flight returned to Kennedy, the passengers were switched out to a different plane, and their flight departed at 10:59 a.m. - about three hours behind schedule.

"As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK," a Delta spokesperson said in a statement. "We appreciate their professionalism and our customers' patience for the delay in their travels."

The 33-year-old aircraft was removed from service while Delta teams evaluate the plane.

The FAA said it will investigate.

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