Flying with a pet can be a challenging experience. Some airlines have specific policies that limit what a traveler can bring along when a pet is present. But, a new policy at American Airlines is helping flyers traveling with pets have more flexibility.
A former policy made pet owners choose between a full-sized carry-on and traveling with their pets, but the airline recently made some changes. Now, travelers can have a full-sized carry-on bag as well as their beloved fur baby.
Original Policy
Before the change, passengers flying American Airlines with a pet were only allowed one personal item, an item that fit under the seat in front of them and were not permitted to bring a full-sized carry-on for overhead bin space. Passengers did, however, have the option of paying extra to bring a full-sized item. Last week, the Texas-based airline, decided to change the rule.
Now, customers flying with pets can bring a full-sized carry-on but still have some restrictions. Those flying with a pet can choose either a full-sized carry-on or a personal item that fits under the seat, but not both. The change comes not long after online criticism claiming the airline’s policy is costly and concerning for travelers with pets.
Other Requirements
People traveling with pets will still have to pay a flat fee to bring their pet onboard the aircraft, but now are free of the additional baggage cost. Pet fees are typically around $150.
According to the airline’s website, when traveling with pets as a carry-on the pet must meet certain requirements, including size, age, breed, and destination specifications. For example, sizing requirements often limit pets to those that can fit inside a small kennel or travel case. On the other hand, service animals “may fly in the cabin at no extra charge,” according to the website, and have fewer restrictions.
American Airlines travels to destinations all over the world, but its website says pets can only travel as carry-ons for “most flights up to 12 hours” within the United States, Alaska, Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas. Other international destinations allow pets, but have specific guidelines for bringing them and many don’t allow traveling with them as carry-on. Animals that don’t meet the requirements can travel as “cargo.”
