Airline Pet Carrier Rules

Rules regarding pets flying in either the cabin or the cargo area were created by the IATA and have been accepted by most of the world̵7;s airlines. A few airlines adhere to differing regulations and have been outlined below. Rules are broken down between pets in the cabin and pets in the cargo area.

  1. Cabin Rule 1

    • One pet per passenger.

    Cabin Rule 2

    • Pet travel allowed only on flights lasting six hours or less.

    Cabin Rule 3

    • There is a maximum allowed of two pets per cabin on flights.

    Cabin Rule 4

    • The container in which the pet is being held must fit under the seat in front of you and have a waterproof bottom.

      Travel containers and crates that are accepted by most airlines include the Sherpa brand, Pet Roll Around and Sturdi brand.

    Cabin Rule 5

    • According to United Airlines, all dogs or cats must be fully weaned and a minimum of eight weeks old.

    Cargo Rule 1

    • During winter months, airlines require documentation stating your pet is acclimated to colder temperatures.

    Cargo Rule 2

    • The pet travel crate or container must be an IATA/APHIS-approved container. A recommended crate is
      Kennel Aire because this product meets all standards for pets traveling as air cargo

    Cargo Rule 3

    • The crate must be a large enough crate for the animal to turn around, stand and lie down.

    Cargo Rule 4

    • The pet travel container or crate must be made of sturdy plastic.

    Cargo Rule 5

    • The pet travel container or crate must have a secure all-around locking system to ensure the safety of the animal and the pins must extend beyond the horizontal extrusions above and below the door. Pet travel containers must also have ventilation on all four sides and must state in 1-inch letters "LIVE ANIMAL" and have the owners' contact information and name of the animal somewhere on the crate.

    Cargo Rule 7

    • Both water and food bowls must be attached to the inside of the crate and be able to be refilled from outside the crate.

    Airline Restrictions

    • United Airlines has breed restrictions for the following breeds from June 1 to September 30 each year: Boston Terrier, Boxer, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, King Charles Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Pug, Shar-Pei and Shih Tzu.

      Delta will not allow any animals to be checked; all pet travel must be in the cargo area of the airplane.