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Traveling with your furry friend can be a joyful and stress-free experience—if you choose the right airline. In 2025, many U.S. carriers have updated their policies to become more accommodating for pets, offering better services, safety, and comfort. Whether you’re flying with a small cat, a large dog, or even a rabbit, knowing which airline suits your needs makes all the difference. This guide explores the best airlines for pet travel, examining services, fees, and overall experience. You’ll discover the most dog-friendly airlines, learn which airlines are best to fly with a cat, and understand the policies behind the top pet-friendly airlines available today.
Best Airlines for Pet Travel in the U.S.
1. Alaska Airlines: Leading the Pack
Alaska Airlines stands out as one of the best airlines for pet travel. They offer in-cabin travel for small pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds. The pet fee is $100 each way, and pets must remain in a carrier that fits under the seat. Alaska Airlines also provides a Pet Connect service for pets traveling in cargo, ensuring safe and comfortable transport.
2. JetBlue Airways: Pet-Friendly Amenities
JetBlue’s JetPaws program is designed to make pet travel seamless. They allow small cats and dogs in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. The airline provides a pet travel guide, travel points, and a carrier bag tag to enhance the experience. However, JetBlue does not transport pets in cargo.
3. American Airlines: Comprehensive Pet Services
American Airlines offers both in-cabin and cargo options for pet travel. The in-cabin pet fee is $150 each way. For larger pets, the PetEmbark program provides a safe and comfortable journey. American Airlines’ extensive network makes it a convenient choice for pet owners.
4. Southwest Airlines: Budget-Friendly Choice
Southwest Airlines allows small dogs and cats in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. They also permit a pet stroller or crate to be checked for free, which is a unique perk among U.S. airlines. However, pets are not allowed on international flights or flights between Hawaii and the mainland.
5. Frontier Airlines: Affordable Pet Travel
Frontier Airlines offers one of the most budget-friendly options for pet travel, with a fee of $99 each way. They allow small dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and household birds in the cabin. However, pets must remain in a carrier that fits under the seat, and passengers cannot sit in the first or exit rows.
Airlines with the Best Pet Policies
1. United Airlines: PetSafe Program for Large Pets
United Airlines’ PetSafe program is tailored for pets traveling in cargo. It offers temperature-controlled vehicles, on-site pet care, and a dedicated 24-hour PetSafe desk. This program ensures that larger pets receive the best care during their journey.
2. Hawaiian Airlines: Strict but Safe
Hawaiian Airlines allows small dogs and cats in the cabin on certain flights. They also offer cargo services for larger pets. However, Hawaii’s strict regulations require health certificates and vaccinations, and pets cannot fly in cargo during certain months due to temperature restrictions.
3. Spirit Airlines: Limited but Affordable
Spirit Airlines permits small dogs, cats, and household birds in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. However, they do not transport pets in cargo, and international pet travel is not allowed. It’s essential to check specific route restrictions before booking.
Best Airlines for Flying with Cats
When flying with a cat, it’s crucial to choose an airline that accommodates feline passengers comfortably.
- JetBlue Airways: Offers the JetPaws program, making travel more comfortable for cats.
- American Airlines: Provides both in-cabin and cargo options for cats.
- Alaska Airlines: Allows cats in the cabin and offers cargo services.
Airlines with the Best Pet Policies
Airlines with comprehensive pet policies ensure a smooth journey for both pets and owners.
- United Airlines: The PetSafe program offers specialized care for pets traveling in cargo.
- Alaska Airlines: Provides clear guidelines for in-cabin and cargo pet travel.
- JetBlue Airways: The JetPaws program includes amenities and travel points for pets.
Cheapest Airlines for Pet Travel
Traveling with pets doesn’t have to be expensive. Some airlines offer affordable options.
- Frontier Airlines: Charges $99 each way for pet travel.
- Southwest Airlines: Offers a $125 fee per pet each way and allows a pet stroller or crate to be checked for free.
Best Airline to Travel with a Dog
Traveling with a dog requires an airline that offers suitable accommodations.
- Alaska Airlines: Allows dogs in the cabin and offers cargo services.
- JetBlue Airways: Provides the JetPaws program for a comfortable journey.
- American Airlines: Offers both in-cabin and cargo options for dogs.
Airlines That Allow Rabbits
Not all airlines accommodate rabbits, but some do.
- Frontier Airlines: Permits rabbits in the cabin on domestic flights.
- Alaska Airlines: Allows rabbits in the cabin and offers cargo services.
Airlines That Allow Birds
Birds can travel with certain airlines that have specific policies.
- JetBlue Airways: Permits small birds in the cabin.
- Frontier Airlines: Allows birds in the cabin on domestic flights.
Airlines That Allow Pets in Cargo
For larger pets, cargo services are necessary.
- United Airlines: The PetSafe program provides cargo services for pets.
- American Airlines: Offers the PetEmbark program for pets traveling in cargo.
Best Pet Carrier for Flying
Choosing the right carrier is essential for pet travel.
- Soft-sided carriers: Preferred by airlines for in-cabin travel.
- Hard-sided carriers: Suitable for cargo travel.
- Ensure the carrier fits under the seat and meets airline specifications.
Tips for Traveling with Pets
- Book early: Airlines have limited space for pets.
- Health certificates: Required for certain destinations.
- Familiarize your pet with the carrier: Helps reduce anxiety.
- Stay hydrated: Ensure your pet has access to water during the flight.
Comparison of Pet Policies
| Airline | In-Cabin Fee | Cargo Service | Pet Types Allowed | Special Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | $100 | Yes | Dogs, Cats, Birds | Pet Connect |
| JetBlue Airways | $125 | No | Cats, Dogs | JetPaws |
| American Airlines | $150 | Yes | Dogs, Cats | PetEmbark |
| Southwest Airlines | $125 | No | Dogs, Cats | None |
| Frontier Airlines | $99 | No | Dogs, Cats, Birds | None |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right airline for pet travel in 2025 involves considering various factors such as fees, services, and pet accommodations. Airlines like Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines offer comprehensive services for pet owners. Always check the specific pet policies of the
Which airline is most pet-friendly?
Alaska Airlines is often considered the most pet-friendly airline in the U.S., offering excellent in-cabin and cargo pet services.
Do any UK airlines allow dogs in the cabin?
Yes, some UK airlines like British Airways and KLM allow small dogs to travel in the cabin under specific conditions.
What is the cheapest airline to fly with pets?
Frontier Airlines offers some of the cheapest pet fees in the U.S., with rates as low as $99 each way.
Which airline is most pet-friendly UK?
British Airways is known as one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the UK, providing options for small pets in the cabin and cargo.