Paws on a Plane: Which Airlines Allow Pets in the Cabin for 2026?

Planning a trip is exciting, but adding a four-legged family member to the mix brings up a whole new set of questions. If you're wondering which airlines allow pets in the cabin, you've landed in the right place. Figuring out airline pet policies can feel like a maze, with each airline having its own rules for size, weight, carriers, and fees. This often leaves pet owners stressed and unsure if their furry friend can even join them on their journey.

This guide is designed to clear up that confusion. We've done the legwork to give you a clear, detailed list of top pet-friendly airlines. For each airline, you'll find a simple breakdown of their in-cabin pet rules, helping you quickly find the best fit for you and your companion. We'll cover everything you need to know, from booking and flight restrictions to important papers like health certificates.

Our goal is to give you the confidence to travel with your pet. We'll look at the specific rules for major airlines like Delta, American, Southwest, and more, with direct links to their official pet policy pages for easy reference. We'll also highlight how services like Passpaw can simplify the paperwork, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience from check-in to touchdown. Let’s get you and your co-pilot ready for your next adventure.

1. Alaska Airlines – Northern Skies, Friendly Paws

Known for its customer-friendly approach, Alaska Airlines gives a warm welcome to furry travelers, making it a top choice for those wondering which airlines allow pets in the cabin. Their policy is fairly simple, but like any airline, the details matter. Alaska's effort to accommodate pets, especially on its many West Coast and Alaska routes, makes it a popular and reliable option.

Their website has a dedicated and easy-to-use pet travel section, which is a big plus compared to competitors who often bury this information. This clarity helps pet owners feel confident and prepared.

Key Policy Details

Understanding Alaska's rules is the first step to a smooth journey. Their policy is built around safety and comfort for all passengers, including the four-legged ones.

• Allowed Animals: Mainly small dogs and cats. They also accept rabbits and household birds in some cases, which is a unique offering compared to many other major airlines.

• In-Cabin Fee: $100 each way per pet carrier. You can have up to two pets of the same species and similar size in a single carrier, which counts as one pet fee.

• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.

• Booking Process: You must call Alaska Airlines Reservations at 1-800-252-7522 to add a pet to your booking. In-cabin pet spots are limited (usually 5-7 per flight) and cannot be booked online, so call right after booking your own ticket.

Carrier & Size Requirements

Your pet's carrier is their ticket to ride. Alaska is specific about the size to make sure it fits safely under the seat in front of you.

The carrier must be leak-proof, have good airflow, and be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around. Remember, your pet carrier counts as your one personal item or carry-on bag.

Pro Tip: Choose a soft-sided carrier. It's more flexible, making it easier to fit under slightly different seat designs across the Alaska Airlines fleet.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

While Alaska is pet-friendly, certain routes have strict rules. The most important one is travel to Hawaii, where pets are not allowed in the cabin due to the state's quarantine laws. All pets traveling to Hawaii must fly using Alaska's "Pet Connect" cargo service.

Also, pets are not allowed in First Class on certain planes due to a lack of under-seat storage. Always double-check your seat assignment and its pet-friendliness when you call to add your pet.

For a smooth trip, it's a good idea to visit the official Alaska Airlines pet travel page: Traveling with pets - Alaska Airlines

2. Delta Air Lines – Reaching New Heights with Your Pet

As one of the world's largest airlines, Delta Air Lines offers a solid program for those asking which airlines allow pets in the cabin. Their approach balances passenger comfort with clear rules for furry friends, making the experience safe and predictable for everyone on board.

Delta's dedicated pet travel section on their website is a big help. It clearly outlines the step-by-step process, from booking to boarding, which helps make a potentially stressful process much easier for pet owners.

Key Policy Details

Flying with Delta needs some planning, but their policies are easy to follow. The rules are designed to ensure safety and comfort for all, including your pet.

• Allowed Animals: Small dogs, cats, and household birds (on U.S. domestic flights only) are allowed to travel in the cabin.

• In-Cabin Fee: $95 each way for travel within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. International fees can be different.

• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel and 16 weeks old if traveling to another country.

• Booking Process: You must call Delta Reservations at 1-800-221-1212 to add a pet to your flight plan. Pet spots are very limited and fill up fast, so it's important to call right after you book your own flight. You cannot book in-cabin pets online.

Carrier & Size Requirements

Your pet's carrier is their home for the flight, and Delta has specific rules to make sure it fits safely under the seat. The maximum size depends on your flight, as under-seat space can change depending on the aircraft.

The carrier must be leak-proof and have good airflow. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around inside. The carrier will count as your one carry-on item.

Pro Tip: When you call to book your pet, ask the Delta agent for the maximum under-seat size for your specific aircraft. This helps you buy a carrier that will be approved at the airport.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

Delta has several key restrictions to be aware of. Like other U.S. airlines, pets are not allowed to travel in the cabin to or from Hawaii because of state quarantine laws. They are also not allowed on flights to or from certain international destinations, including the United Kingdom and Australia.

Also, pets are not allowed in certain premium cabins or specific seats, such as bulkhead or emergency exit rows, which don't have under-seat storage. Before you finalize your travel, it's a good idea to check on the required paperwork. You can learn more about the necessary travel documents for pets to ensure a smooth check-in.

For complete, official details, it's best to visit the Delta Air Lines pet travel page: Pet Travel on Delta - Overview

3. American Airlines – Carry-On Pets

As one of the world's largest airlines, American Airlines has a huge network, making them a key option for anyone asking which airlines allow pets in the cabin. Their policy focuses on a clear, self-service process for travelers with small pets. A big plus is that you can add a pet to your reservation online or through their app, a feature many other airlines don't offer.

This online approach simplifies planning, letting you see if your flight has space for your furry co-pilot without needing to make a phone call. The airline's website clearly shows plane and seat-specific limits, helping you avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.

Key Policy Details

American’s rules are easy to understand, but it's important to know the details to ensure a hassle-free journey for you and your pet.

• Allowed Animals: Small dogs and cats that meet age and health rules.

• In-Cabin Fee: $150 each way per pet carrier. You pay the fee at the airport ticket counter when you check in.

• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel. For travel to the U.S. from another country, they must be at least 16 weeks old.

• Booking Process: You can add a pet to your trip online through "My Trips" or in the American Airlines app after booking. However, space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's smart to do this right away.

Carrier & Size Requirements

Your pet's carrier must fit safely under the seat in front of you. American provides sizes that change a bit by aircraft, so always check your specific flight details.

The carrier must be secure, have airflow on at least two sides, and have a leak-proof bottom. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around inside. Remember, the pet carrier will count as your one personal item or carry-on bag.

Pro Tip: Even though you can add your pet online, it's a good idea to call American Airlines to confirm your seat is not in an exit row, bulkhead, or a seat without under-seat storage, as pets are not allowed there.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

American's policies have specific limits depending on your destination and cabin class. Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights across the Atlantic or Pacific oceans, or on certain flights to South America.

Also, First and Business Class cabins on many wide-body planes (like the 777 and 787 series) do not allow pets because the lie-flat seats don't have under-seat space. Always check your aircraft type when booking. For a full overview of rules to make sure your trip is purr-fectly planned, it's best to check American's official policy page.

For a broader comparison of airline policies, explore our guide to the best airlines for pet travel.

Visit the official American Airlines pet travel page: Traveling with pets - American Airlines

4. Southwest Airlines – Pets and Optional Fees

Famous for its "bags fly free" policy, Southwest Airlines brings a similar open and customer-friendly attitude to pet travel. For anyone looking up which airlines allow pets in the cabin, Southwest is a great choice for domestic flights because of its simple rules and large U.S. network. Their policy is built on simplicity, making it a less scary option for first-time pet flyers.

Southwest’s website clearly lists fees and steps on its "Optional Travel Charges" and pet policy pages. This transparency helps travelers budget correctly and know exactly what to expect when they arrive at the airport with their furry co-pilot.

Key Policy Details

Southwest’s "Pets Are Welcome On Southwest" (PAWS) program keeps things simple. Understanding their rules helps you and your pet get ready for a smooth check-in.

• Allowed Animals: Small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs.

• In-Cabin Fee: $125 each way per pet carrier for U.S. mainland flights. A lower fee of $35 each way applies to travel between Hawaiian islands.

• Age Requirement: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.

• Booking Process: You must book your pet’s spot over the phone by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) after you book your own flight. Pet spots are limited (usually six carriers per flight) and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You pay the pet fee at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel.

Carrier & Size Requirements

Your pet's carrier must be approved by Southwest and fit under the seat. Southwest even sells its own branded carrier at the ticket counter for extra convenience if yours doesn't meet the rules.

The carrier must have good airflow, be leak-proof, and allow your pet to stand and turn around inside. The carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag, so pack smart.

Pro Tip: Because you pay the pet fee at the airport, arrive a little earlier than usual. This gives you plenty of time to check in at the ticket counter, handle the payment, and get your pet's boarding pass tag without rushing.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

Southwest's pet-friendly policy has its limits. The most important one is that pets are not allowed on any international flights or any trips that include an international flight.

Also, pets are not allowed to travel with children flying alone. While Southwest is known for its open seating, you and your pet cannot sit in an exit row or a seat with no under-seat storage in front of it, such as the front bulkhead row. Always confirm these details with the gate agent.

For a complete overview, it's wise to visit the official Southwest Airlines pet policy page: Traveling with pets - Southwest Airlines

5. United Airlines – In-Cabin Pets (policy & booking flow)

As one of the largest airlines in the world, United Airlines has a huge network, making it a key player for travelers wondering which airlines allow pets in the cabin. Their policy is well-documented, and a big plus is that you can often add a pet to your reservation online during booking, a feature many other airlines don't have. This digital convenience can make planning your furry friend's travel much less stressful.

United's website clearly explains its policies, including strict limits on the number of pets allowed per flight, which helps manage expectations. While their rules are detailed, understanding them is key for a smooth boarding experience.

Key Policy Details

Understanding United's specific rules is important, as they balance accommodating pets with passenger comfort and safety across their large network.

• Allowed Animals: Only domestic cats and dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin.

• In-Cabin Fee: $125 each way per pet carrier. There is an extra $125 service charge for any stopover of more than four hours on domestic flights or 24 hours on international flights.

• Age Requirement: Puppies and kittens must be at least 2 months old for domestic flights and 4 months old for international flights.

• Booking Process: You can add your pet to your booking on united.com or through the United app. If those options aren't available for your trip, you must call the United Customer Contact Center. Because there are limits on pets per flight (often just 2-4 pets), book as early as you can.

Carrier & Size Requirements

Your pet's carrier must fit safely under the seat in front of you. United is precise about these sizes to ensure safety on their different planes.

The carrier must have good airflow, prevent any part of your pet from sticking out, and have a leak-proof bottom. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around inside. The carrier will count as your personal item.

Pro Tip: Always double-check your aircraft type on your flight plan. Certain premium cabin seats, especially on Boeing 757, 767, 777, and 787 planes, do not have under-seat storage and cannot fit a pet carrier.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

United has several major route and seating restrictions. Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to, from, or through Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand, and several other countries. These routes require pets to travel via the "PetSafe" cargo program, which is currently on hold.

Also, pets are not allowed in premium cabins (like United Polaris® business class) on most aircraft. You also cannot sit in an exit row or a bulkhead seat. Always confirm your seat is pet-friendly when booking.

For the most current information, it's best to visit the official United Airlines pet travel page: In-cabin pets - United Airlines

6. JetBlue – Traveling With Pets (JetPaws)

JetBlue presents itself as a customer-focused airline, and its "JetPaws" program shows this. For pet owners asking which airlines allow pets in the cabin, JetBlue offers a clear and easy-to-use program. Their approach is designed to be simple, reducing stress for both pets and their parents with clear online guides and checklists.

The JetPaws program is more than just a policy; it's a branded experience. Their website provides special content that guides you through the process, from booking to boarding, making it a "fur-midable" choice for domestic U.S. travel.

Key Policy Details

Understanding JetBlue’s rules is key to a hassle-free flight. The program is built around simplicity and making sure everyone on board, two-legged or four, has a comfortable journey.

• Allowed Animals: Domestic dogs and cats only.

• In-Cabin Fee: $125 each way per pet carrier. Only one pet is allowed per carrier.

• Weight Limit: Your pet and their carrier must have a combined weight of 20 pounds or less. This is a strict and important rule that is different from many other airlines.

• Booking Process: You can add your pet online during the booking process or call JetBlue at 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583) to add a pet to a flight you already booked. Spaces are limited to six pets per flight, so booking well in advance is key.

Carrier & Size Requirements

JetBlue is specific about carrier size to ensure it fits properly under the seat. Following these limits is required for in-cabin travel.

The carrier must be FAA-approved, leak-proof, and have proper airflow. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around inside. Importantly, your pet carrier counts as your one personal item and must be kept under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.

Pro Tip: When booking online, look for the "Add pet" option in the "Extras" section. If it's not there, the flight's pet limit is likely full, and you'll need to choose another flight.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

While JetBlue's policy is generally consistent, there are several key restrictions to know. Pets are not allowed on flights to Trinidad & Tobago, the U.K., or Europe. They are also not allowed in Mint (JetBlue's premium class) seats.

Also, certain destinations like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have specific vaccine and document rules, so always check entry requirements before you fly. Unlike some airlines, JetBlue does not require a health certificate for domestic travel, but it is always a good idea to carry one.

For complete rules and to get their helpful checklist, it is a good idea to visit the official JetBlue pet travel page: Traveling with Pets - JetBlue

7. PetFriendly Travel – Your At-a-Glance Policy Compass

When you first start looking for which airlines allow pets in the cabin, the process can feel like a lot. PetFriendly Travel is a great place to start because it gathers the policies of major U.S. airlines onto a single, easy-to-read comparison page. Instead of opening a dozen browser tabs, you can get a quick, high-level overview of the pet-travel world.

This resource is designed to be efficient, helping you quickly see which airlines are even an option for your furry co-pilot. It’s a practical first stop to compare key details like fees and carrier sizes before you spend time pricing out specific flights.

Key Features & Benefits

PetFriendly Travel's strength is its simplicity and focus. It presents the most important information in an easy-to-digest format, perfect for your first round of research.

• Quick Comparison: The website shows key data like in-cabin fees, carrier size limits, and major restrictions side-by-side for many U.S. airlines.

• Time-Saving: It saves you the early work of visiting each airline's site one by one, helping you narrow down your list of possible airlines in minutes.

• Direct Links: Each airline summary includes a direct link to the official pet policy page, making it easy to check the information and get more details.

• Highlights Exceptions: The page is helpful for pointing out common but critical restrictions, such as rules for travel to Hawaii or aircraft-specific limits.

Using the Platform Effectively

To get the most value from this resource, think of it as a launchpad for your travel planning, not the final destination.

Remember, this site is a reference guide, not a booking tool. Once you've found a few promising airlines, you must visit their official websites to confirm the rules and book your flight.

Pro Tip: Use PetFriendly Travel to create a shortlist of 2-3 airlines. Then, visit each of their official sites to double-check the policies, as fees and rules can change.

Important Restrictions & Considerations

The biggest thing to remember when using any third-party comparison tool is that information can become outdated. Airlines often update their policies, and PetFriendly Travel, while updated regularly, may not show a change made yesterday. Always click through to the airline's official page to confirm every detail before buying a ticket.

Also, it mainly focuses on U.S. domestic airlines. For international travel, you will need to research specific airline policies directly. Getting ready for your journey involves more than just airline rules; for a full look at the entire process, including vet visits and paperwork, you can find lots of information in our guide to pet travel.

For a convenient starting point in your research, visit the PetFriendly Travel comparison page: Which Airlines Allow Pets To Fly In The Cabin? - PetFriendlyTravel.com

Top 7 Airlines: In-Cabin Pet Policy Comparison

Final Boarding Call: Ensuring a Smooth Trip for You and Your Pet

Flying with your four-legged friend can feel like a big deal, but as we've seen, it's very possible with the right planning. Knowing which airlines allow pets in the cabin is the first step, and this guide has given you the policies for major carriers like Delta, American Airlines, Southwest, and United.

The journey from booking your ticket to getting through security is all about the details. The most important thing to remember is to be proactive. Airline policies are firm rules designed for the safety and comfort of everyone on board, including your pet.

Your Pre-Flight Checklist: Key Takeaways

To make sure you have a smooth and stress-free travel day, always remember these key points:

• Book Early, Confirm Always: Pet spots in the cabin are limited and fill up fast. Reserve your pet's spot over the phone as soon as you book your own flight, and then call again 24-48 hours before you leave to reconfirm their reservation.

• Measure Twice, Fly Once: An airline-approved carrier is a must-have. Pay close attention to the maximum size and make sure it fits under the seat. Your pet must be able to stand up and turn around inside.

• Documentation is Everything: Don't let paperwork ground your plans. Whether it's a simple rabies certificate for a domestic flight or a more complex International Health Certificate for a trip abroad, having your documents in perfect order is crucial. This is where many travel plans run into trouble.

• Know Your Destination's Rules: Beyond airline policy, your destination has its own import rules. This is especially true for international travel and specific places like Hawaii, which have strict health rules.

Turning Stress into Success with the Right Tools

The most common worry for pet parents is managing the required health documents. The forms can be confusing, deadlines are strict, and one mistake can mess up your entire trip. This is where a dedicated tool can make your experience much better.

A platform like Passpaw acts as your digital co-pilot for pet travel. Instead of juggling loose papers, confusing government websites, and emails with your vet, it brings the whole process into one place. It guides you through the specific requirements for your destination, helps make sure forms are filled out correctly, and helps you and your veterinarian work together to meet every deadline.

By simplifying the most complex part of pet travel, you can focus on what really matters: preparing your pet for a comfortable and positive journey.

For many pets, the new sounds and feelings of air travel can be scary. A calm pet makes for a calm owner. To help ease your furry co-pilot's stress, looking into the best calming treats for dogs can be a helpful part of your travel prep. You should always talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any new supplements or treats, especially before travel.

Ultimately, flying with your pet in the cabin is a rewarding experience that makes your bond stronger and opens up a world of shared adventures. With careful planning, a good understanding of the airline's rules, and the help of modern tools, you can confidently say, "We're cleared for takeoff."

Ready to make your pet's travel paperwork a breeze? Let Passpaw be your guide through the complexities of health certificates and destination requirements. Simplify your next trip by visiting Passpaw to see how we help you and your veterinarian prepare for a seamless journey.