American Airlines Just Made It Easier and Cheaper to Fly With a Pet — What to Know
The airline will now allow travelers to bring a full-size carry-on bag with them for no extra charge when they book a carry-on pet.
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American Airlines is making it easier to travel with pets, changing its policy to allow travelers to bring a free carry-on bag in addition to their furry friend.
The airline will now allow travelers to bring a full-size carry-on bag with them for no extra charge when they book a carry-on pet, American confirmed to Travel + Leisure. Previously, the airline counted the pet as the carry-on bag and travelers were not permitted to bring another roller bag with them.
The change went into effect on March 28.
Passengers flying with a carry-on pet, however, will not be able to bring a large carry-on item that fits in the overhead bin and a personal item at the same time, and must choose one or the other.
“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American,” an airline spokesperson told T+L.
American charges $150 per kennel for carry-on pets, according to the airline. Carry-on pets are allowed on most flights up to 12 hours within the United States, between the U.S. and Canada, to Mexico, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.
Pets brought in the cabin must be small enough to “fit comfortably” inside a closed carrier and fit under the seat in front. The airline recommends travelers use a soft-sided collapsible kennel.
Other airlines similarly restrict passengers who are traveling with carry-on pets from bringing a large carry-on bag. Delta Air Lines, for example, counts the pet’s kennel as a passenger’s carry-on bag and only allows travelers to bring an additional personal item, according to the airline.
Like American’s new policy, Southwest allows passengers traveling with a carry-on pet to bring either a personal item or a carry-on item with them in addition to their companion.
When flying with pets, travelers should stock the carrier with plenty of necessities like water or treats and check in for a flight as late as possible.
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