Comprehensive Guide On American Airlines Pet Policy 2025

Last Updated: October 14, 2025

Traveling with your furry companion on American Airlines requires careful preparation and understanding of American Airlines' pet policy. Whether you're planning a domestic trip or an international journey, American Airlines offers several options for pet transport, each with specific requirements and restrictions. Read our blog to know everything about American Airlines’ pet policy to make your travel smooth.

American Airlines Pet Policy Overview

American Airlines is considered a relatively pet-friendly airline that allows cats and dogs to travel either in the cabin as carry-on pets or through their cargo service, American PetEmbark. The airline's American Airlines pet policy has evolved to become more accommodating for pet owners while maintaining strict safety standards.

As of 2025, American Airlines updated its pet policy to allow passengers to bring their pet as in-cabin for small cats or dogs. However, the larger pets will fly as cargo. American

Airlines' Carry-On Pet Policy

The American Airlines carry-on pet policy is limited to cats and small dogs that meet specific size, age, and destination requirements. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the United States and Puerto Rico. For international travel, dogs must be at least 6 months old.

Under the American Airlines pet in-cabin policy, your pet must remain in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you throughout the entire flight. The carrier dimensions vary slightly by aircraft type:

Soft-sided carriers (recommended): Maximum dimensions of 18" x 11" x 11" (46 x 28 x 28 cm).
Hard-sided carriers: Maximum dimensions of 19" x 13" x 9" (48 x 33 x 22 cm) for mainline flights, or 16" x 12" x 8" (40 x 30 x 20 cm) for American Eagle regional flights.

The carrier must be constructed to allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. There is typically no weight limit for pets in the cabin, except for First or Business class on A321T flights, where a 20-pound limit applies.

Also Read: American Airlines Check-In Policy

Booking Your Pet on American Airlines & Fees

You can do pet reservations online, through the American Airlines app, or by contacting the customer service of Affluence Travels. The American Airlines in-cabin pet policy requires a fee of $150 per kennel each way. This fee must be paid at the airport with a credit card or paper voucher - cash and checks are not accepted.

It's important to note that there's a limited number of pets allowed per flight, typically varying by aircraft type. This makes advance booking essential to secure your pet's spot.

American Airlines Pet Policy International

The American Airlines pet policy international has specific limitations. Pets are allowed on most flights up to 12 hours to and from select destinations, including:

Within the 48 contiguous United States
United States and Canada
Alaska
Mexico
Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas

Important restrictions: Pets are not permitted in the cabin on transatlantic flights, flights to/from Hawaii, Bolivia, Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, or Venezuela.

Also Read: American Airlines Low Fare Calendar

Required Documentation for Pet Travel on American Airlines

For international travel, extensive documentation is required under the American Airlines pet travel policy:

Health Certificates: A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection from a licensed, accredited veterinarian is typically required within 10 days of travel.
CDC Requirements: As of August 1, 2024, all dogs entering the United States require a CDC Dog Import Form, regardless of their origin country. Dogs from high-risk rabies countries have additional requirements and must be at least 16 weeks old.
Microchip Requirements: All dogs must have a microchip for international travel, and the microchip number must be listed on the required documentation.
Vaccination Records: Current rabies vaccination certificates are mandatory for dogs from high-risk countries.

Also Read: American Airlines Cancellation Policy

Booking Tips and Preparation

Advance Planning: Book your pet's travel at least 24 hours in advance, but no more than 10 days before departure (30 days for London Heathrow).
Carrier Acclimation: Get your pet comfortable with their travel carrier at least 2-3 weeks before travel.
Health Preparations: Schedule a veterinary examination within 10 days of travel for health certificates, and ensure all vaccinations are current.
Airport Arrival: Arrive early to allow time for pet check-in procedures and documentation review.

Traveling With Service Animals on American Airlines

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet American Airlines' requirements, including submission of DOT Form 48 hours before travel.

Also Read: American Airlines Baggage Policy

Conclusion

Understanding American Airlines' pet policy ensures a smooth travel experience for both you and your furry companion. Always verify current requirements when booking, as policies can change based on destination, aircraft type, and seasonal restrictions. With proper preparation and adherence to these guidelines, your pet can safely accompany you on your American Airlines journey. For more assistance, call Affluence Travels now and have a safe and smooth journey with your four-legged companion.

FAQs About American Airlines Pet Policy

How much does it cost to bring my pet into the cabin on American Airlines?

The American Airlines pet policy charges $150 each way for carry-on pets, paid at the airport counter with a credit card or voucher.

What are the size limits for pet carriers on American Airlines flights?

Soft-sided carriers must not exceed 18" x 11" x 11", while hard-sided carriers are limited to 19" x 13" x 9" for mainline flights.

Can I bring my pet on international American Airlines flights?

Yes, but only on flights up to 12 hours to select destinations including Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean locations - no transatlantic flights allowed.