Traveling by air with a pet has changed a lot in recent years. The largest U.S. airlines have cut back on cargo services, revised fees and carry-on regulations, and restricted dog entry into the country. For many, the cabin is the only possible choice. Below are the most important pet travel laws and the latest modifications to be aware of before you next travel with your pets.
In-cabin comes first
Most major U.S. airlines now focus on small pets traveling in the cabin, inside a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Fees commonly range from about $95 to $150 each way, and airlines limit how many pets can fly on each flight, so book early.
Cargo options shrink
Several big airlines, including United and Delta, now limit pet transport in the cargo hold to active U.S. military members and State Department personnel traveling on official orders. For owners of larger dogs, that leaves fewer options, and some turn to specialist pet transport services instead.
American eases its carry-on rule
American Airlines has updated its policy so a pet carrier no longer replaces all of your carry-on allowance. Travelers can now bring their pet carrier plus either a personal item or a standard carry-on bag. In-cabin pets on American cost $150 each way.
Fee changes at Hawaiian
Hawaiian Airlines lowered its in-cabin pet fee for flights between North America and Hawaii to $100 each way for travel starting January 2, 2026, down from $125. Interisland pet travel costs $35. Only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger.
Support animals fly as pets
Airlines are no longer obligated to treat emotional support animals as service animals, as a 2021 DOT rule changes stated. Most now only accept them as ‘ordinary’ pets and do have to follow the rules on carrier size and paying the normal pet fee.
Service dogs need paperwork
Trained service dogs can still fly in the cabin for free. However, airlines can require owners to submit the Department of Transportation’s service animal form, which covers the dog’s health, behavior and training, before the flight.
Rules for dogs entering the US
Since August 2024, dogs arriving in the U.S. must meet CDC import rules. They must be at least 6 months old, microchipped and accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs from countries considered high risk for rabies face additional requirements.
