Easy Guidelines For American Airlines Pet Travel- Complete Policy Guide

Planning to take your furry friend on your next trip? If you are flying with American Airlines, it's essential to understand their pet policy to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet. This comprehensive guide covers all the rules, fees, and restrictions you need to know before booking your flight.

American Airtlines Pet Policy [New] 2025

American Airlines has recently updated its pet policy to enhance the travel experience for both passengers and their furry companions. Under the new guidelines, pets are allowed to travel in the cabin as long as they are in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Key points of the American airlines new pet policy include a maximum weight limit of 20 pounds for pets, a fee for bringing a pet on board, and the requirement that pets must be at least eight weeks old. Additionally, American Airlines no longer allows emotional support animals to travel for free in the cabin; only trained service animals are exempt from fees.

To clarify your queries, talk to expert team via calling at +1(855)-497-3456

American Airlines Pet Travel Options

American Airlines allows pets to travel in three main ways, depending on the pet’s size, destination, and aircraft:

1. Carry-On Pets

Small pets can travel in the cabin with you on most domestic and some international flights.

Key Requirements:

Pets must be in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat.
Accepted pets: Dogs and cats only.
Pet must be at least 8 weeks old.
Combined weight of the pet and carrier must be no more than 20 lbs (9 kg).
One pet per passenger (exceptions for young animals from the same litter).

Carry-on pet fee: $125 (each way)

Not allowed: Carry-on pets are not permitted on flights to/from Hawaii, some international destinations, and in first or business class on certain aircraft (due to space limitations).

2. Checked Pets (Cargo/AA Cargo)

Larger pets that can't fly in the cabin may travel as cargo via American Airlines Cargo.

Key Rules:

Only dogs and cats are accepted.
Must travel in a secure, IATA-compliant crate.
Subject to space and temperature restrictions.
Owners must drop off and pick up pets at designated cargo locations.
Only certain aircraft and routes allow pet cargo.

Cargo fees vary depending on the pet’s size, weight, and destination. Quotes are provided through AACargo.com.

Note: Cargo service is not available when outside temperatures are too extreme (typically below 45°F or above 85°F).

3. Emotional Support Animals Service Animals

American Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals as service animals (in accordance with DOT regulations).

Service Animals Policy:

Only dogs are recognized as service animals.
Must be trained to perform a specific task related to a passenger’s disability.
Documentation may be required.
Must fit at the passenger’s feet and not obstruct aisles.

Pet Carrier Requirements

Whether traveling in-cabin or as cargo, your pet’s carrier must meet American Airlines’ specifications:

In-Cabin Carrier:

Soft- or hard-sided, well-ventilated.
Max dimensions: 19” x 13” x 9” (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm).
Pet must remain inside with the door closed for the entire flight.

Cargo Crate:

Sturdy, escape-proof, and large enough for the pet to stand and turn around.
Must include food and water dishes.
Label the crate with “Live Animal” stickers and owner’s contact info.

Destinations and Restrictions

Not permitted: Pets are not accepted for flights to Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and a few other international destinations.
Holiday Embargoes: Restrictions may apply during peak travel seasons (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas).
Connection time: Layovers must not exceed 4 hours for carry-on pets or 12 hours for cargo pets.

Read: - American airlines (AA) lost and found

Hopefully, this blog provide you the complete exposure about American airlines pet policy 2025 and what are the rules that flyers have to follow. If you need any kind of assistance then get in touch with American airlines customer service at +1(855)-497-3456.