Flying With Dogs Dog Travel Forum

I really want to take my miniature schnauzer Charlotte with me to New York City. She weighs 16lbs - I've read that some airlines allow up to 20lbs including the carriers however I'm confused as to how to expect any dog to be able to walk around in the carrier. My dog wouldn't move an inch even if she could.

I have researched carriers but I'm worried about purchasing one that is appropriate and then being turned away because she cannot stand up and turnaround.

Also, most of the carriers I've seen are off by an inch or so in the required dimensions.

How strict are they?