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Pet Policy 2026

United Airlines Pet Policy (2026)
Fees, Cabin Rules & Restrictions

Everything you need to know about flying with your pet on United Airlines. Updated for 2026 with the latest fees, weight limits, and booking tips.

Quick Answer: United Airlines Pet Policy

  • United Airlines allows small pets in the cabin for $150 one-way.
  • No cargo pet transport option is currently available.
  • Approved carrier dimensions: Hard-sided: 17.5 x 12 x 9 inches, Soft-sided: 18 x 11 x 11 inches maximum.
  • Best for: In-cabin travel for small pets on domestic flights

For full details, see the sections below or visit the complete airline comparison guide.

Quick Summary

Pets in Cabin
Yes
Max Weight
N/A
Cabin Fee (One-Way)
$150
Cargo Option
Limited
Cargo Fee
N/A
Best For
In-cabin travel for small pets on domestic flights

Cabin Pet Policy

  • United Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on most flights.
  • The fee is $150 each way per pet.
  • Pets must remain in their carrier, with the door closed, and stowed under the seat for the entire flight.
  • While there are no specific weight restrictions, the pet and carrier must fit comfortably under the seat.
  • A passenger can travel with up to two pets, but this requires purchasing an adjacent second seat.
  • However, on certain aircraft models (A319, A320, A321neo, 737-800/MAX 8, 737-900/MAX 9), only one pet per passenger is permitted due to limited under-seat space.
Carrier Size
Hard-sided: 17.5 x 12 x 9 inches, Soft-sided: 18 x 11 x 11 inches

Checked Baggage Policy

United Airlines does not allow pets to travel as checked baggage.

Cargo Policy

  • United Airlines has suspended its PetSafe program for shipping pets as cargo for the general public.
  • The only exception is for the pets of active-duty U.S.
  • military personnel and U.S.
  • State Department Foreign Service personnel who are traveling on official orders.

Fee Summary

TypeFeeAvailable
In-Cabin$150Yes
CargoN/ALimited

Restrictions & Requirements

Breed Restrictions

No breed restrictions for in-cabin pet travel.

Temperature Restrictions

Since the PetSafe cargo program is suspended, there are no specific temperature restrictions for in-cabin pet travel.

International Rules

  • For dogs entering the U.S.
  • from another country, a new CDC form and adherence to rabies vaccination requirements are mandatory.
  • Additionally, a USDA certificate is required for dogs coming from countries with known screwworm infestations.
  • It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure compliance with all specific entry and exit requirements for their international destination.

Important Notes

A passenger is allowed to bring up to two pets in the cabin, but they must purchase an additional seat for the second pet. Also, pet strollers are not allowed in the cabin and must be checked.

Pro Tips for United Airlines

1

To ensure a smooth check-in process, add your pet to your reservation in advance through the United website, as it cannot be done via the mobile app.

2

Pack a familiar item, such as a favorite toy or blanket, in your pet's carrier to help keep them calm and comfortable during the flight.

3

Use the airport maps feature on the United app to locate pet relief areas within the airport before your flight.

Compare with Similar Airlines

How does United Airlines stack up? Here's a quick look at 3 comparable airlines:

Compare Other Airlines

See how United Airlines compares to other airlines for pet travel.

AirlineIn CabinFeeCargo
United Airlines (current)Yes$150Limited
American AirlinesYes$150Yes
Delta Air LinesYes$150Limited
Southwest AirlinesYes$125No
JetBlueYes$150No
Alaska AirlinesYes$100Yes
Spirit AirlinesYes$125No

United Airlines Pet Policy FAQ

Common questions about traveling with pets on United Airlines.

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