Does United Airlines Allow Pets On Board?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Are you planning a trip with your furry best friend? The question on your mind is probably: does United Airlines allow pets on board? Well, the answer is yes, but before you start packing your pet’s bags, there are a few things you need to know.

United Airlines follows strict guidelines when it comes to traveling with pets. This ensures the safety and comfort of both your pet and other passengers on board. So, let’s take a closer look at United Airlines’ pet policy and what you need to do to prepare for a smooth journey with your four-legged companion.

Does United Airlines Allow Pets on Board?

Does United Airlines Allow Pets on Board?

Traveling with a pet can be a stressful experience for both the pet and the owner, but many airlines have started allowing pets on board to make things easier for pet owners. United Airlines is one such airline that allows pets on board. In this article, we will explore United Airlines’ pet policy and what you need to know before traveling with your furry friend.

Types of Pets Allowed on United Airlines

United Airlines allows both cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with their owners or in the cargo hold as checked baggage. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met before your pet can fly with United Airlines.

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In-cabin pets must be small enough to fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of the pet and carrier cannot exceed 17 pounds. Only one pet per carrier is allowed, and the carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. Additionally, the pet must remain in the carrier at all times during the flight.

If your pet is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat, they must travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage. United Airlines allows dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds to travel as checked baggage. However, certain breeds of dogs and cats are not allowed to travel in the cargo hold due to health concerns.

Requirements for Traveling with a Pet on United Airlines

Before flying with your pet on United Airlines, there are several requirements that must be met. First, you must book your pet’s travel as early as possible as there is limited space for pets on each flight. You will also need to provide a health certificate from your veterinarian that is dated within 10 days of travel.

In addition, you will need to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all required vaccinations and has the necessary identification tags. You may also need to provide additional documentation if you are traveling internationally with your pet.

Pet Fees on United Airlines

United Airlines charges a fee for pets traveling in the cabin and as checked baggage. In-cabin pets are subject to a fee of $125 each way, while pets traveling as checked baggage are subject to a fee based on the weight of the pet and carrier.

It’s important to note that these fees can add up quickly, so be sure to factor them into your travel budget before booking your pet’s travel on United Airlines.

Benefits of Traveling with Your Pet on United Airlines

While there are certainly some added costs and requirements for traveling with your pet on United Airlines, there are also many benefits to doing so. First and foremost, you will be able to bring your furry friend with you on your travels, which can be a comfort to both you and your pet.

In addition, United Airlines has a team of pet travel experts who can help you navigate the process of traveling with your pet. They can provide guidance on everything from booking your pet’s travel to ensuring that all necessary requirements are met.

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Pros and Cons of Traveling with Your Pet on United Airlines

As with any travel decision, there are both pros and cons to traveling with your pet on United Airlines. Some of the pros include being able to bring your pet with you on your travels and having access to pet travel experts who can help make the process easier.

However, there are also some cons to traveling with your pet on United Airlines. These include the added costs of pet fees and the potential stress and discomfort that your pet may experience during the flight.

Conclusion

Traveling with a pet on United Airlines is possible, but there are several requirements and restrictions that must be met before your pet can fly. If you are considering traveling with your pet on United Airlines, be sure to carefully review their pet policy and requirements to ensure that you and your furry friend have a safe and comfortable flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about United Airlines’ pet policy:

What types of animals are allowed to fly with United Airlines?

United Airlines allows cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds (excluding cockatoos) to fly in the cabin or as checked baggage. However, certain breeds of dogs and cats may not be allowed to fly due to breed-specific regulations. Additionally, emotional support animals and service animals are allowed to fly with their owners.

It’s important to note that each animal must meet certain requirements, such as having proper documentation and being able to fit in an approved carrier.

How do I make a reservation for my pet to fly with United Airlines?

To make a reservation for your pet to fly with United Airlines, you must call the United PetSafe desk. You cannot make a reservation for your pet online. It’s recommended that you make a reservation as soon as possible, as there is limited space for pets on each flight.

Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll need to provide certain documentation and pay the required fees before your pet can fly.

What are the fees for flying with a pet on United Airlines?

The fees for flying with a pet on United Airlines depend on the destination, the size of your pet, and how your pet is traveling (in the cabin or as checked baggage). As of 2021, the fees for pets traveling in the cabin range from $125 to $375, while the fees for pets traveling as checked baggage range from $200 to $500. It’s important to note that these fees are non-refundable.

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In addition to the pet fee, you may also be required to pay an excess baggage fee if you’re traveling with your pet and additional bags.

What are the requirements for pets traveling in the cabin with United Airlines?

To travel in the cabin with United Airlines, your pet must be able to fit in an approved carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.

Your pet must also have all necessary health documentation and meet certain age and vaccination requirements. Additionally, there is a limit to the number of pets that can travel in the cabin on each flight, so it’s important to make a reservation as soon as possible.

What are the requirements for pets traveling as checked baggage with United Airlines?

If your pet is traveling as checked baggage, they must be in an approved kennel that meets certain size and ventilation requirements. Your pet must also have all necessary health documentation and meet certain age and vaccination requirements.

It’s important to note that pets traveling as checked baggage are transported in a pressurized and temperature-controlled compartment of the plane, separate from the passenger cabin. Additionally, there is a limit to the number of pets that can travel as checked baggage on each flight, so it’s important to make a reservation as soon as possible.

How to fly with your cat/dog on United Airlines || United Airlines Pet Policy


In conclusion, United Airlines does allow pets on board. However, there are certain guidelines and restrictions that must be followed in order to ensure the safety and comfort of the animals, as well as other passengers.

If you plan to travel with a pet on United Airlines, it is important to carefully review their pet policy and procedures. This will help you prepare for everything from the type of pet carrier you need to the necessary documentation and fees.

Overall, United Airlines recognizes the importance of accommodating passengers with pets and strives to make the experience as seamless as possible. By following the guidelines and planning ahead, you and your furry friend can enjoy a stress-free flight together.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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