Top 8 Airlines for Pet Travel in the USA
| # | Airline | Fee | Max Weight | Cargo | Why It Ranks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska Airlines | $100 | 20 lbs | Yes | Best overall — cabin + cargo, straightforward process |
| 2 | Southwest Airlines | $125 | 20 lbs | No | No breed restrictions, simple booking, free checked bags for you |
| 3 | JetBlue | $150 | 20 lbs | No | Generous carrier dimensions, most legroom in economy |
| 4 | Hawaiian Airlines | $35–$175 | 25 lbs | Yes | Cheapest at $35 for intra-Hawaii, cargo for inter-island |
| 5 | Sun Country Airlines | $75–$125 | 20 lbs | No | Budget-friendly, good for domestic routes |
| 6 | Frontier Airlines | $99 | 20 lbs | No | Flat $99 fee, no breed restrictions |
| 7 | American Airlines | $150 | 20 lbs | Yes | Largest route network, PetEmbark cargo program |
| 8 | Delta Air Lines | $150 | 20 lbs | Limited | Reliable service, strict but clear policies |
Best Airlines by Category
Best for Small Dogs & Cats
- Alaska Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- JetBlue
All three have generous carrier dimensions and simple booking processes.
Cheapest for Pet Travel
- Hawaiian Airlines ($35)
- Sun Country ($75)
- Frontier ($99)
Budget carriers offer the lowest per-flight pet fees.
Best for Cargo (Large Pets)
- American Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
These airlines operate dedicated cargo pet programs with climate-controlled holds.
Best Route Network
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
Legacy carriers serve the most domestic and international destinations.
What Makes an Airline Pet-Friendly?
- Reasonable fees — under $125 one-way is considered good value.
- Clear weight limits — know exactly what's allowed before booking.
- Cargo option — essential if your pet is too large for the cabin.
- No breed restrictions — some airlines ban specific breeds even in cabin.
- Flexible booking — ability to add pets online, not just by phone.
- Good track record — check DOT animal incident reports for safety data.
Pro Tips for Flying with Pets
- Book your pet's spot the same day you book your ticket — cabin pet slots fill fast.
- Call the airline to confirm your pet reservation 48 hours before departure.
- Choose early morning or late evening flights in summer to avoid heat restrictions.
- Practice with the carrier at home for at least a week before the flight.
- Freeze a small dish of water to prevent spills during boarding.
- Skip sedation — nearly all airlines prohibit it, and vets advise against it at altitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
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