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American Airlines's Pet Travel Policy
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates air transportation of pets and all airlines are required by law to follow the guidelines outlined on our Air Travel Regulations for Pets page. Individual airlines may impose further restrictions or fees for flying with your pet. American Airlines's pet policy is described below.
Any questions? Call American Airlines at 1-800-433-7300
Pets in the Cabin:
Carry-on pets are allowed on domestic flights in the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Puerto Rico and USVI. The maximum size for cabin pet carriers is 23"Lx13"Wx9"H. A pet kennel counts as a passenger's one carry-on bag. Only one pet kennel per ticketed passenger is allowed for travel in the cabin, as pets must go under the seat in front of you. The maximum number of carry-on kennels on American Airlines flights within the United States and Canada is seven total: two in first class and five in coach and/or business class. On American Eagle and AmericanConnection, two kennels (at most) are allowed depending on the aircraft. Pets may not be removed from their carriers at any time while on-board the aircraft and American assumes no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets.
American does not require a health certificate for the acceptance of pets for travel in the cabin within the 48 Contiguous States and Alaska. American also does not require documentation regarding the sedation of a pet, nor do they restrict sedated animals. However, the state you are traveling to will most likely require a health certificate and rabies immunization. We recommend getting them, so you don't run into any problems at arrival.
There is an $80 USD fee per carrier for pets traveling with you in the cabin. Charges are payable at the airport and you must show the pet travel fee receipt at the departure gate.
Pets Checked with Baggage:
Checked pets are allowed on domestic flights in the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Puerto Rico and USVI. A maximum of two pets per passenger is allowed in the cargo area. The maximum size for checked kennels is 40"x27"x30". However, the maximum size kennel (series 500) is not accepted on Boeing MD-80 aircraft and series 700 kennels are not allowed on any of their aircraft. The maximum combined weight of a checked pet and kennel cannot exceed 100 lbs. Collapsible kennels can not be accepted due to the risk of collapse during transport.
American does not require a health certificate for the acceptance of pets for travel in the cargo area within the 48 Contiguous States and Alaska. American also does not require documentation regarding the sedation of a pet, nor do they restrict sedated animals. However, the state you are traveling to will most likely require a health certificate and rabies immunization. We recommend getting them, so you don't run into any problems at arrival.
The fee is $100 USD per container for checked pets.
For More Information:
If you have any questions about American Airlines's pet policy, please call 1-800-433-7300 or visit AA.com. Happy travels!
