Pet travel

Flying with pets: the complete airline guide for 2026

By the TSA Wait Times team · Updated July 2026 · Published June 2026

Dogs and cats can fly in-cabin for $35–$200 each way if they fit in a carrier under the seat. Larger pets fly as checked baggage or cargo. Breed restrictions, health certificates, and carrier size rules apply. Here is everything you need to know by airline.

In-cabin vs. cargo vs. checked baggage

How your pet travels depends on their size, breed, and the airline you fly. There are three distinct options — and they are not interchangeable.

Per-airline pet fees and policies (2026)

In-cabin pet fees are charged each way per pet. Airlines limit the number of in-cabin pets per flight — typically four to six total. Confirm your airline's current policy at booking, as fees and limits change without notice.

Breed restrictions

Most legacy carriers prohibit snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from the cargo hold due to breathing risks at altitude. Delta, United, and American all ban snub-nosed breeds from cargo entirely.

• Restricted dogs (cargo): English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Lhasa Apsos.
• Restricted cats (cargo): Persian, Himalayan, Burmese, and Exotic Shorthair.
• In-cabin exception. Snub-nosed breeds are often permitted in-cabin — the pressurized, climate-controlled cabin reduces the breathing risk that makes cargo dangerous for these breeds. Confirm with your specific airline before booking.

Carrier size requirements

Your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you with your pet inside. Typical maximum dimensions are 18 × 11 × 11 inches, but this varies by aircraft type — always confirm with your airline before purchasing a carrier.

• Pet must be able to move. Airlines require that the pet can stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the carrier. A carrier that is too snug will be rejected.
• Soft-sided carriers only in-cabin. Hard-shell crates are not permitted under the seat — they are required for checked baggage and cargo only.
• Recommended carriers. Sherpa Original (airline-approved across most carriers), Sleepypod Air, and K9 Sport Sack are consistently approved on major US airlines. Do a test run at home to verify your pet fits comfortably before travel day.

TSA security with pets

The checkpoint protocol for pets is straightforward — but it catches travelers off guard more than almost any other security procedure.

Health certificate requirements

A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) is required for pets in cargo and for most international routes.

• Cargo and checked baggage pets. Most airlines require a CVI issued by a USDA-accredited vet within 10 days of travel (some specify 7 days — confirm with your carrier before scheduling the vet visit).
• International travel. A USDA endorsement of the CVI is required for most international routes. Destination country requirements vary significantly — some countries require weeks or months of advance preparation, including microchipping, rabies titer tests, and quarantine periods. Research destination rules early.
• In-cabin domestic flights. Most US airlines do not require a health certificate for in-cabin pets on domestic routes. A vet visit confirming fitness to fly is still recommended before any air travel.

How to book a pet on your flight

• Call the airline directly. Most airlines cannot process in-cabin pet reservations online — you must call. Book as early as possible, as airlines cap in-cabin pets at four to six per flight and spots fill quickly on popular routes.
• Confirm 24–48 hours before travel. Pet reservations are occasionally dropped from bookings. Call the airline the day before your flight to verify your pet is on the manifest.
• What to bring. Your approved pet carrier, health certificate if required, proof of rabies vaccination, and a comfort item — a small toy or blanket from home reduces travel anxiety noticeably.

At the airport with your pet

• Relief before security. Give your pet a chance to relieve themselves before entering the security checkpoint. Most large airports have service animal or pet relief areas before the security line. Look for them near the ticket counters or curbside, not inside the terminal.
• In-terminal pet areas.Many major airports have pet water fountains and in-terminal relief areas after security. Check your airport's map before you travel — knowing the location saves stress on a long layover.
• Do not sedate your pet.Sedation at altitude is dangerous — it impairs a pet's ability to regulate breathing and maintain balance. Most veterinarians advise against sedation for air travel. Ask your vet about anxiety-reducing alternatives such as calming treats or pheromone sprays if needed.
• For cargo pets: fly direct. Request a direct flight to avoid temperature-variable cargo transfers. In summer, fly in the morning or evening to avoid tarmac heat; in winter, fly midday to avoid extreme cold.

Changing plans after booking? Airline cancellation and change fees covers what you owe if travel is rescheduled or canceled. Traveling light? How to pack carry-on only walks through fitting everything — including your pet carrier — in a single bag.

Common questions