How To Bring A Pet On American Airlines?

American Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States. If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend, you might be wondering how to bring a pet on American Airlines. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience with your pet on American Airlines. So, let’s get started!

Whether you’re moving to a new city or taking a vacation, traveling with a pet can be a challenging experience. However, with American Airlines, pet lovers can rest assured that their furry friends will be well taken care of. From the airline’s pet policy to the necessary documentation, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bring your pet on board with American Airlines. So, let’s dive in and make your travel experience with your loyal companion a memorable one!

How to Bring a Pet on American Airlines?

Bringing a pet on a flight can be a daunting task, but with American Airlines, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bring your furry friend along on your next American Airlines flight.

1. Check Pet Travel Requirements

Before you book your flight, it is essential to check American Airlines’ pet travel requirements. The airline accepts cats and dogs as carry-on, checked, or cargo, depending on their size, breed, and destination. Some breeds are not allowed on American Airlines flights, so it is crucial to check the airline’s restrictions.

If you plan to bring your pet on the plane, you must ensure they meet the airline’s requirements. Your pet must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within ten days of travel and be up-to-date on all vaccinations. Additionally, your pet must be at least eight weeks old and not show any signs of illness or aggression.

2. Make a Reservation for Your Pet

After you have confirmed that your pet meets American Airlines’ requirements, you can make a reservation for them. You can do this either online or by phone. If you plan to bring your pet in the cabin, it is recommended to book your flight early as there is a limit to the number of pets allowed on each flight.

When making a reservation, you must inform the airline that you will be traveling with your pet. American Airlines charges a fee for pets traveling in the cabin, checked, or cargo. The fees vary depending on the destination, the size of your pet, and the type of service you choose.

3. Prepare Your Pet for Travel

Before your flight, it is essential to prepare your pet for travel. This includes getting them used to their carrier or crate, especially if they will be traveling in the cargo hold. You should also pack food, water, and any medications your pet may need during the flight.

It is recommended to exercise your pet before the flight to help them relax and tire them out. Additionally, you should avoid feeding them for a few hours before the flight to prevent any motion sickness during the flight.

4. Check-In with Your Pet

On the day of your flight, you must check-in with your pet at the airport. You should arrive at the airport early to allow time for the check-in process. You must provide the airline with your pet’s health certificate and any other required documentation.

If you are traveling with your pet in the cabin, you must keep them in their carrier until you board the plane. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, the airline will take care of the check-in process.

5. Board the Plane with Your Pet

When it’s time to board the plane, you must follow the airline’s instructions for bringing your pet on board. If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you must place their carrier under the seat in front of you. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, the airline will take care of the loading process.

During the flight, you should check on your pet regularly to ensure they are comfortable and not experiencing any distress. You should also avoid feeding them during the flight to prevent any motion sickness.

6. Collect Your Pet at Your Destination

After you land, it’s time to collect your pet from the airline. If your pet was traveling in the cargo hold, you will need to collect them at the baggage claim area. If your pet was traveling in the cabin, you can collect them at the gate.

Once you have your pet, you can proceed with your travel plans. Remember to give your pet some time to adjust to their new surroundings before taking them out of their carrier or crate.

Benefits of Bringing a Pet on American Airlines

Bringing your pet on an American Airlines flight can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. Not only can you avoid the stress of leaving them behind, but you can also have peace of mind knowing they are with you during the flight.

Additionally, American Airlines offers excellent pet travel services, including pet-friendly cabin policies, cargo options, and a dedicated team to assist with your pet’s travel needs.

Bringing a Pet on American Airlines Vs. Other Airlines

When it comes to bringing a pet on a flight, American Airlines offers a competitive and reliable service compared to other airlines. The airline has strict pet travel requirements, ensuring the safety and well-being of your pet during the flight.

American Airlines also offers various pet travel options, including cabin, checked, and cargo, depending on your pet’s size and breed. Additionally, the airline has a dedicated team to assist with your pet’s travel needs, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

In conclusion, bringing a pet on American Airlines can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a safe and comfortable flight for both you and your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about bringing a pet on American Airlines:

What are the requirements for bringing a pet on American Airlines?

To bring your pet on American Airlines, you’ll need to make a reservation and pay a fee. Your pet will need to be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated, and your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, you’ll need to provide current health and vaccination records for your pet.

Some breeds of dogs and cats may not be allowed to travel on American Airlines due to their physical characteristics. Additionally, pets may not be allowed to travel on certain flights, such as those with a duration of over 12 hours or during certain times of the year when temperatures are extreme.

How do I make a reservation for my pet on American Airlines?

You can make a reservation for your pet on American Airlines by calling their reservations department. Be sure to let them know that you’ll be traveling with a pet and that you’ll need to bring an approved carrier for your pet. You’ll also need to provide current health and vaccination records for your pet.

It’s important to make your reservation as early as possible, as there are limits to the number of pets that can travel on each flight. Additionally, some flights may not allow pets to travel, so it’s best to confirm availability before booking your own ticket.

What is the fee for bringing a pet on American Airlines?

The fee for bringing a pet on American Airlines varies depending on the type of pet and the route of travel. As of 2021, the fee for domestic travel within the United States is $125 each way. International travel fees may vary and additional fees may apply for connecting flights.

It’s important to note that the fee for bringing a pet on American Airlines is non-refundable, even if you cancel your reservation or your pet does not travel for any reason.

Can my pet travel in the cabin with me?

Yes, small dogs and cats may travel in the cabin with you on American Airlines. Your pet will need to be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you and meets the airline’s requirements for size and ventilation. You’ll need to pay a fee for your pet to travel in the cabin with you.

If your pet is too large to fit under the seat in front of you, they will need to travel in the cargo hold. This is generally reserved for larger dogs and other pets that cannot travel in the cabin.

What should I do to prepare my pet for air travel?

It’s important to prepare your pet for air travel to minimize their stress and make the experience as comfortable as possible. You should get your pet used to their carrier by letting them spend time in it before the trip. You should also exercise your pet before the trip to help them relax and tire them out.

Additionally, you should make sure your pet has access to water and food before the trip. You may want to avoid feeding your pet for a few hours before the flight to minimize the risk of motion sickness. Finally, be sure to label your pet’s carrier with their name and your contact information in case of any issues during the trip.

In conclusion, bringing your pet on American Airlines is a straightforward process if you follow the guidelines and rules set by the airline. It is essential to ensure that your pet is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and has the required documentation before your flight.

Remember to make reservations for your pet in advance and confirm with American Airlines about their pet policy. It is also crucial to pack the necessary items for your pet, such as food, water, and any medications they might need during the flight.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pet travels safely and comfortably on American Airlines. So, go ahead and plan your next trip with your furry friend, and have a fantastic journey together!