Pet Travel as Checked Baggage

Oct 13, 2025 by leolavanderia.com.br 39 views

Full-Info@FAQS--How much does American Airlines charge for a pet?

Understanding American Airlines' Pet Policy

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, offering a wide range of services to its passengers, including the transportation of pets. However, traveling with pets can be a complex process, and it's essential to understand the airline's pet policy to avoid any last-minute surprises. In this article, we'll delve into the details of American Airlines' pet policy, including the fees associated with traveling with pets.

Pet Fees and Charges

American Airlines charges a $150 pet fee each way for small cats and dogs traveling in the cabin (US). This fee applies to pets that weigh up to 20 pounds and fit in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The pet must stay in the carrier at all times during the flight.

Pet Carrier Requirements

To travel with your pet in the cabin, you'll need to use an airline-approved carrier that meets the following requirements:

The carrier must be soft-sided or hard-sided and have a flat bottom.
The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
The carrier must have a secure closure system to prevent the pet from escaping.
The carrier must be able to accommodate your pet comfortably, with enough space for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down.

Pet Travel in the Cabin

If your pet meets the requirements, you can travel with them in the cabin. However, there are some restrictions to be aware of:

Only small cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin.
Pets are not allowed in the cabin if the flight is more than 8 hours long.
Pets are not allowed in the cabin if the flight is to or from a country that requires a health certificate for pets.
Pets are not allowed in the cabin if the flight is to or from a country that has specific regulations regarding the transportation of pets.

Pet Travel as Checked Baggage

If your pet does not meet the requirements for traveling in the cabin, you can travel with them as checked baggage. However, this option is subject to certain restrictions and requirements:

Pets must be in an approved carrier that meets the requirements for checked baggage.
Pets must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Pets must be accompanied by a rabies vaccination certificate.
Pets must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.

Pet Travel as Cargo

If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, you can travel with them as cargo. However, this option is subject to certain restrictions and requirements:

Pets must be in an approved carrier that meets the requirements for cargo.
Pets must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Pets must be accompanied by a rabies vaccination certificate.
Pets must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.

Health Certificates and Vaccinations

To travel with your pet, you'll need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. The health certificate must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's vaccination history.
The pet's health status.

Rabies Vaccination Certificate

In addition to the health certificate, you'll also need to obtain a rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian. The rabies vaccination certificate must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The date of the rabies vaccination.
The expiration date of the rabies vaccination.

Traveling with Pets During Pregnancy or Nursing

If you're traveling with a pregnant or nursing pet, you'll need to obtain a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating that the pet is healthy enough for travel. The letter must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's health status.
The expected due date or the date of the last nursing.

Traveling with Pets with Medical Conditions

If you're traveling with a pet that has a medical condition, you'll need to obtain a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating that the pet is healthy enough for travel. The letter must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's health status.
The name and dosage of any medications the pet is taking.

Conclusion

Traveling with pets can be a complex process, and it's essential to understand American Airlines' pet policy to avoid any last-minute surprises. By understanding the fees associated with traveling with pets, the requirements for pet carriers, and the restrictions for pet travel, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does American Airlines charge for a pet? A: American Airlines charges a $150 pet fee each way for small cats and dogs traveling in the cabin (US).
Q: What are the requirements for pet carriers? A: The carrier must be soft-sided or hard-sided and have a flat bottom. The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier must have a secure closure system to prevent the pet from escaping. The carrier must be able to accommodate your pet comfortably, with enough space for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down.
Q: Can I travel with my pet if the flight is more than 8 hours long? A: No, pets are not allowed in the cabin if the flight is more than 8 hours long.
Q: Do I need a health certificate to travel with my pet? A: Yes, you'll need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Q: Do I need a rabies vaccination certificate to travel with my pet? A: Yes, you'll need to obtain a rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian.

References

American Airlines. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/pets
American Airlines. (n.d.). Pet Policy. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/pets/pet-policy
American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/public/petcare/traveling-with-pets
Full-Info@FAQS--How much does American Airlines charge for a pet?

Q&A: Traveling with Pets on American Airlines

Are you planning to travel with your furry friend on American Airlines? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free journey.

Q: How much does American Airlines charge for a pet?

A: American Airlines charges a $150 pet fee each way for small cats and dogs traveling in the cabin (US). This fee applies to pets that weigh up to 20 pounds and fit in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Q: What are the requirements for pet carriers?

A: The carrier must be soft-sided or hard-sided and have a flat bottom. The carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier must have a secure closure system to prevent the pet from escaping. The carrier must be able to accommodate your pet comfortably, with enough space for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down.

Q: Can I travel with my pet if the flight is more than 8 hours long?

A: No, pets are not allowed in the cabin if the flight is more than 8 hours long. However, you can travel with your pet as checked baggage or cargo.

Q: Do I need a health certificate to travel with my pet?

A: Yes, you'll need to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. The health certificate must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's vaccination history.
The pet's health status.

Q: Do I need a rabies vaccination certificate to travel with my pet?

A: Yes, you'll need to obtain a rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian. The rabies vaccination certificate must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The date of the rabies vaccination.
The expiration date of the rabies vaccination.

Q: Can I travel with my pet if they have a medical condition?

A: Yes, but you'll need to obtain a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating that the pet is healthy enough for travel. The letter must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's health status.
The name and dosage of any medications the pet is taking.

Q: Can I travel with my pet if they are pregnant or nursing?

A: Yes, but you'll need to obtain a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating that the pet is healthy enough for travel. The letter must include the following information:

The pet's name and species.
The pet's age and weight.
The pet's health status.
The expected due date or the date of the last nursing.

Q: How do I book a pet-friendly flight on American Airlines?

A: You can book a pet-friendly flight on American Airlines by visiting their website or by contacting their customer service department. Be sure to provide your pet's information and any necessary documentation, such as a health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate.

Q: What if my pet gets sick or injured during the flight?

A: If your pet gets sick or injured during the flight, you'll need to contact American Airlines' customer service department immediately. They'll provide you with instructions on how to care for your pet and may offer to transport your pet to a nearby airport for further care.

Q: Can I travel with multiple pets?

A: Yes, but you'll need to obtain a separate health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate for each pet. You'll also need to provide a separate carrier for each pet.

Q: Are there any restrictions on traveling with pets during peak travel seasons?

A: Yes, American Airlines may have restrictions on traveling with pets during peak travel seasons, such as holidays and summer vacation. Be sure to check with American Airlines for any specific restrictions before booking your flight.

Q: Can I travel with my pet if I have a connecting flight?

A: Yes, but you'll need to ensure that your pet is able to travel with you on both flights. You'll also need to provide a separate carrier for each flight.

Q: How do I prepare my pet for travel?

A: To prepare your pet for travel, you'll need to:

Acclimate your pet to their carrier by placing them in it for short periods of time.
Provide your pet with a familiar object, such as a toy or blanket, to help them feel more comfortable during the flight.
Ensure that your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and health checks.
Provide your pet with a health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate.

Conclusion

Traveling with pets on American Airlines can be a smooth and stress-free experience if you're prepared. By understanding the requirements for pet carriers, health certificates, and rabies vaccination certificates, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet.

References

American Airlines. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/pets
American Airlines. (n.d.). Pet Policy. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/pets/pet-policy
American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Traveling with Pets. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/public/petcare/traveling-with-pets