Does American Airlines Allow Birds?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Are you planning to travel with your feathered friend on American Airlines? It’s a common question among pet owners who don’t want to leave their beloved companions behind. However, before you pack your bird in a carrier, you need to know American Airlines’ policy on pet birds.

American Airlines does allow birds on their flights, but certain rules and regulations must be followed. Whether you have a parrot, canary, or any other pet bird, understanding these guidelines can help make your journey stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your feathered friend. So let’s dive in and explore American Airlines’ pet bird policy.

Does American Airlines Allow Birds?

Does American Airlines Allow Birds?

If you are a bird owner and planning to travel with your feathered friend, you might have questioned whether American Airlines allows birds on their flights. In general, American Airlines does allow birds on their flights, but there are certain rules and regulations that need to be followed for the safety and comfort of both the birds and passengers.

Types of Birds Allowed on American Airlines

American Airlines allows only domesticated birds, such as parakeets, canaries, and finches, to travel in the cabin with their owners. However, larger birds such as parrots and macaws are not allowed in the cabin and must travel in the cargo hold. It is important to note that American Airlines does not allow any birds to travel on international flights.

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Domesticated birds must be at least two months old and fully weaned to be eligible to travel on American Airlines. Additionally, the bird must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stored under the seat in front of the passenger.

Rules and Regulations for Bird Travel

American Airlines has specific requirements for bird travel to ensure the safety of both the bird and other passengers. The carrier must be leak-proof and escape-proof, and the bird must be able to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably in the carrier. The carrier should also have a solid bottom and be lined with absorbent material.

Bird owners need to inform American Airlines at least 24 hours before the flight that they will be traveling with a bird. The airline will also require a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating that the bird is healthy and fit to travel.

Cost of Bird Travel on American Airlines

Bird owners must pay a fee for their bird to travel on American Airlines. The fee varies depending on the size and weight of the bird and whether it is traveling in the cabin or cargo hold. The fee for domesticated birds traveling in the cabin is $125 each way, while the fee for birds traveling in the cargo hold starts at $200 each way.

Bird Travel Tips

If you plan to travel with your bird on American Airlines, there are a few tips to make the experience smoother for both you and your feathered friend. First, make sure your bird is comfortable in the carrier and has had plenty of practice being in it before the flight. You can also add familiar toys or perches to the carrier to make it feel more like home.

It is also a good idea to bring food and water for your bird, as well as any necessary medications. Finally, make sure to arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to check in your bird and get through security.

Benefits of Traveling with a Bird on American Airlines

Traveling with a bird can be a great experience for both the owner and the bird. It allows the bird to stay close to its owner and reduces the stress of being separated from its flock. It can also be a bonding experience for the owner and bird.

Additionally, American Airlines allows bird owners to bring their birds on board as an emotional support animal (ESA) if they have the necessary documentation. This can be beneficial for individuals with anxiety or other mental health conditions.

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Bird Travel on American Airlines vs. Other Airlines

American Airlines is not the only airline that allows birds to travel on their flights. However, each airline has its own rules and regulations regarding bird travel, so it is important to check with the specific airline before booking a flight.

Some airlines, such as Delta and United, allow larger birds to travel in the cabin under certain conditions. Other airlines, such as Southwest, do not allow birds to travel at all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, American Airlines does allow birds to travel on their flights, but there are specific rules and regulations that need to be followed. Domesticated birds can travel in the cabin with their owners as long as they meet certain requirements, while larger birds must travel in the cargo hold.

If you plan to travel with a bird on American Airlines, it is important to inform the airline ahead of time and ensure that the bird is comfortable and safe in its carrier. With proper preparation and attention to the airline’s rules, bird travel on American Airlines can be a positive experience for both the owner and the bird.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about American Airlines policies.

What are American Airlines pet policies?

American Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. However, there are restrictions and fees that vary depending on the type of pet and the destination. For example, only cats and dogs are allowed on flights to Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Additionally, there are breed restrictions for certain dogs. It’s important to check with American Airlines before booking a flight with a pet.

Service animals are also allowed to travel in the cabin free of charge. However, American Airlines requires documentation and advanced notice for service animals.

How do I request a special meal on American Airlines?

Passengers can request a special meal on American Airlines by selecting the meal option during the booking process or by contacting American Airlines at least 24 hours before the flight. Special meal options include vegetarian, kosher, Hindu, Muslim, and gluten-free meals. However, not all special meals are available on all flights.

If a passenger has a severe food allergy, they should also contact American Airlines in advance to request accommodations.

What is American Airlines’ baggage policy?

American Airlines’ baggage policy allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag, as well as up to 10 checked bags for an additional fee. The size and weight restrictions for carry-on and checked bags vary depending on the destination and fare class. Passengers can check American Airlines’ website for specific baggage allowances for their flight.

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If a passenger needs to bring additional bags or items, they can purchase additional baggage allowances or ship their items separately through American Airlines’ cargo service.

What is American Airlines’ cancellation policy?

American Airlines’ cancellation policy varies depending on the fare class and ticket type. In general, non-refundable tickets cannot be cancelled or refunded. However, passengers can change their flight for a fee and use the remaining balance as a credit for future travel. Refundable tickets can be cancelled or changed for free, but may have higher upfront costs.

If a passenger needs to cancel a flight due to unforeseen circumstances or a medical emergency, they should contact American Airlines as soon as possible to discuss their options.

What is American Airlines’ policy on emotional support animals?

American Airlines allows emotional support animals to travel in the cabin with their owners. However, there are restrictions and documentation requirements that must be met. Passengers must provide a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that they need an emotional support animal to travel. Additionally, the animal must be able to fit under the seat in front of the passenger and behave appropriately in a public setting.

Starting in 2021, American Airlines will no longer allow emotional support animals on flights. Only trained service animals will be allowed in the cabin free of charge.

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In conclusion, American Airlines does allow birds on their flights, but with certain restrictions and guidelines in place. It’s important for bird owners to check with the airline before booking their flights, as there may be different rules and regulations for different types of birds. Additionally, birds must be kept in appropriate carriers and must not pose a threat or disturbance to other passengers. With proper preparation and communication with the airline, bird owners can confidently travel with their feathered companions on American Airlines flights.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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