Ruth Haines
While it is possible to bring pets into the airport, it is important to note that there are specific requirements and restrictions that must be followed. These regulations vary depending on the airport, airline, and type of pet. Generally, pets are only allowed inside airport buildings if they are service animals. When travelling with pets, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the relevant procedures and restrictions to ensure a smooth journey. This includes understanding the screening process, as well as any size, health, and carrier requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bringing pets into the airport | Only service animals are allowed inside the airport. |
| Bringing pets on a flight | Some airlines allow pets on a flight, but they must be kept in a kennel at all times while in the airport and onboard the aircraft. |
| Pet carrier guidelines | The pet carrier must be rigid, secure, leak-proof, and escape-proof with ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic US travel and 4 sides for international travel. |
| Pet fees | Pet fees vary by airline and depend on the trip details, size of the animal, and kennel. |
| Pet relief areas | Pet relief areas are located behind security. |
| Screening process | If possible, carry the pet during the screening process. Alternatively, a pet can walk through the screening process if the owner has the pet on a leash. |
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What You'll Learn
Rules vary by airline
When it comes to travelling with pets, different airlines have varying policies and requirements. It's important to be aware of these rules to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion. Here are some key points to consider:
American Airlines
American Airlines allows you to pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel centre, but they only accept credit card or paper voucher payments. They have specific guidelines for the kennels, which must be rigid, secure, leak-proof, and well-ventilated. For international travel, the kennel must have ventilation on four sides, while for domestic US travel, three sides are sufficient. Additionally, the kennel should have separate food and water dishes attached securely inside, along with a small bag of food for a 24-hour period. American Airlines also has age requirements for pets, with cats and dogs needing to be at least 8 weeks old when travelling within the US and Puerto Rico.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines allows some pets to travel as carry-on or cargo, depending on their size. They have a first-come, first-serve policy for pets in the cabin, with a limit on the total number allowed on each flight. Delta permits two pets of the same breed and size between 8 weeks and 6 months to travel in one kennel, as long as they fit comfortably. The kennel must be soft-sided and ventilated, fitting under the seat in front of you, and it will count as your one carry-on item.
General Tips
Regardless of the airline, there are some standard tips to follow when travelling with a pet. It's essential to familiarise your pet with the travel carrier before the trip to help them stay calm during the screening process and at the airport. Keep your pet with you during the screening, and if possible, carry them or keep them on a leash. Ensure your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and has all the necessary documentation. Always inform the airline in advance that you will be travelling with a pet.
International Travel
When travelling internationally, additional considerations may apply. Check with organisations like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you're travelling with exotic pets or a large number of birds.
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Kennels/carriers are required
When bringing pets into the airport, it is important to follow the necessary requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for both the owners and their furry companions. One crucial aspect is the use of kennels or carriers, which are typically required for transporting pets through airports. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations regarding the use of kennels or carriers when bringing pets into an airport:
First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize your pet with their kennel or carrier before arriving at the airport. This can be achieved by placing the carrier in their living space and even feeding them inside it to create a sense of comfort and familiarity. This step is crucial in reducing your pet's stress levels and helping them remain calm during the hectic travel process.
The specific requirements for kennels or carriers vary among airlines, so it is important to check with your chosen airline beforehand. However, some general guidelines include ensuring that the kennel or carrier is rigid, secure, and escape-proof, with a securely fastened door. It should also have adequate ventilation, with at least three sides ventilated for domestic travel and four sides for international travel. Additionally, the kennel or carrier should have separate food and water dishes attached securely inside.
When bringing a pet into the airport, it is mandatory to keep them in their kennel or carrier at all times, both in the airport and onboard the aircraft. This is a crucial requirement, and failure to comply may result in restrictions on future pet travel. It is also important to ensure that your pet meets the age, health, and size requirements specified by the airline. Additionally, keep in mind that some airlines have policies regarding the location of seats for customers travelling with pets.
The size and type of kennel or carrier depend on the size and number of pets travelling with you. For example, Delta Air Lines allows two pets of the same breed and size between eight weeks and six months to travel in one kennel, as long as they are small enough to fit comfortably. Additionally, soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended as they can be slightly larger and still fit under the seat, but they should not require excessive collapsing.
Lastly, it is important to note that there may be additional requirements and considerations when travelling with exotic pets or a larger number of animals. For example, when travelling with pet birds, you may need to work with agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Always remember to check with the relevant authorities and your chosen airline to ensure you are compliant with all the necessary regulations.
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Vaccinations and health certificates are necessary
When travelling with pets, it is important to ensure they are as protected as possible. This means keeping them safe and healthy, and also protecting other animals and people from potential diseases. Vaccinations are a vital part of this.
Firstly, it is important to note that not all pets are suited to air travel. Brachycephalic pets, or pets with short heads and muzzles, like Pugs, Boxers, Bulldogs, or Persian cats, should not be taken on a flight as their short nasal passages leave them vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and stroke. If you do decide to fly with your pets, it is important to weigh all the risks and follow steps to minimise stress and keep your pets safe.
Vaccinations are a key part of this. A visit to the vet before travel is essential to ensure your pet is fit and well, and up to date with all necessary vaccines. A rabies vaccination is required for nearly every destination, and there are core vaccines recommended for both dogs and cats. These include canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis, and rabies for dogs, and panleukopenia (feline distemper), feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type I (rhinotracheitis), and rabies for cats. There are also non-core but recommended vaccines for both species.
In addition to vaccinations, a health certificate is required for pet travel. This is a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection from a licensed, accredited veterinarian, which indicates your pet is healthy and not showing signs of a disease that could be passed on. This certificate must be up to date and can only be completed and signed by a federally accredited veterinarian. It is also important to note that some airlines require an acclimation certificate, which is based on the veterinarian's assessment of the pet's health and the temperatures your pet is accustomed to.
It is always a good idea to research the requirements of your destination country, as well as the specific airline you are travelling with, well in advance of your trip. This will ensure you have all the necessary vaccinations and health certificates for your pet, and any other required documentation.
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Pet relief areas are located behind security
Since May 2009, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has required all airlines to provide service animal relief areas (SARAs) at airports, along with escorts to those relief areas for passengers travelling with service animals. As a result, many airports have created and expanded animal relief areas that are open to all pets, including non-service animals.
Pet relief areas are mostly located outside airport terminals, either before or after security. Outdoor pet relief areas can range from basic grassy areas to fenced-in "pet parks" with various amenities. Some airports, such as Perth Airport in Australia, even have indoor pet relief areas. For example, Terminal 4 at Perth Airport has an indoor pet relief area with synthetic turf, a red fire hydrant, and a hose. Similarly, Terminal 5 at Reagan National Airport has a large open-air post-security patio area that is open to all customers with a special pet relief corner.
When it comes to specific locations, the availability of pet relief areas varies across different airports. For instance, New Jersey's Newark Airport has a pet relief area outside arrivals at each terminal, but none are located after security. On the other hand, Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta offers both pre-security and post-security options, with an outdoor fenced dog park located outside the Domestic Terminal South and indoor pet relief areas on every concourse near specific gates.
While the specific locations of pet relief areas may differ, the common theme is that they are indeed located within the secure areas of the airport, ensuring the convenience and comfort of travelling with pets.
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Service animals are allowed inside the airport
Airlines are required to recognise and transport service dogs, and they are allowed inside airport buildings. Other types of animals, including emotional support animals, comfort animals, and animals in training, are not considered service animals and may not be permitted in the same way. It is important to note that each country and airline may have its own specific requirements for allowing service animals. For example, American Airlines requires submission of the DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form at least 48 hours before the flight or on the day of travel. Additionally, only service dogs with a completed CDC Dog Import Form and those meeting CDC vaccination and microchip requirements are allowed on American Airlines flights.
When bringing a service animal to the airport, it is essential to ensure that the animal is harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times. The animal must also be able to fit at your feet, under your seat, or in your lap. Final approval for transport is determined at the airport, ensuring the animal can safely fit in the designated space. It is recommended to arrive early and submit the necessary forms ahead of time to ensure a smooth process.
While service animals are generally allowed inside airport buildings, it is worth checking the specific regulations of the particular airport and airline you are travelling with, as there may be variations or additional requirements. Additionally, it is important to consider the well-being of your service animal in the airport environment, which can be noisy, crowded, and stressful for some animals.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can bring your pet into the airport. However, it must remain in its travel carrier at all times. If it is a service animal, it may be allowed out of its carrier.
Before bringing your pet to the airport, you should ensure it is healthy and up to date with its vaccinations. Check with your veterinarian for a health certificate and make sure you have your pet's vaccination records. You should also acclimate your pet to its carrier before your trip.
During the screening process, you should carry your pet if possible. Alternatively, your pet can walk through the screening on a leash. A TSA officer will swab your hands for explosive trace detection. Once screening is complete, return your pet to its carrier in the re-composure area away from the security checkpoint.
When you arrive at the airport with your pet, you will need to pay a pet travel fee. You should also inform airline personnel that you are travelling with a pet.
