Understanding American Airlines’ Latest Pet Policy: What Travelers Need to Know in 2025
American Airlines' updated 2025 pet policy brings key changes for cabin and cargo travel, requiring careful planning for pet owners.
American Airlines’ Pet Policy in 2025: Comprehensive Guide for Pet Travelers
American Airlines has earned a reputation among pet owners for its flexible and convenient animal travel options. However, recent updates in 2025 reflect a shift towards stricter requirements, revised costs, and newly defined breed restrictions designed to safeguard both passengers and pets. This in-depth guide will help pet parents understand the full scope of American Airlines’ current pet travel policy, covering in-cabin options, cargo rules, fees, and expert advice for smooth journeys with furry (and sometimes feathered) companions.
Main Changes to American Airlines’ Pet Policy for 2025
- Stricter eligibility for in-cabin pets, focusing on cats and small dogs only
- Revised kennel and carrier size limitations for specific aircraft
- More comprehensive breed restrictions for cargo transport, especially for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) animals
- Updated temperature and route restrictions for pet acceptance in cargo
- Streamlined procedures and updated fees for both cabin and cargo travel
In-Cabin Pet Travel: Restrictions and Requirements
As of 2025, American Airlines only allows cats and small dogs to travel in the aircraft cabin on designated domestic and select international routes. No other species are permitted in the cabin, and certain age, size, and health requirements apply.
Key Requirements for Carry-On Pets
- Eligible species: Cats and dogs only
- Pet age: Minimum age is 8 weeks
- Kennel/carrier size:
- Soft-sided carriers: max 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm)
- Hard-sided carriers: max 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm) on Mainline flights
- Regional flights: 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm)
- Carrier comfort: Pet must fit comfortably and be able to stand and turn around within the carrier
- Placement: Carrier must stow completely under the seat in front of you
- Flight duration limit: Pets allowed in-cabin on flights up to 12 hours long
- Permitted routes: Most flights within the US and between the US and Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Croix
- Fee: $150 each way (subject to change)
- Bag allowance: You may bring either a pet or a carry-on bag, but not both
Some aircraft, especially in First or Business class, do not permit pets in-cabin due to lack of under-seat storage. Confirm directly with the airline if your travel class and route accept in-cabin animals.
Cargo Pet Travel: American PetEmbark
For larger pets or those that don’t qualify for in-cabin travel, American Airlines provides the American PetEmbark service, a specialized cargo program for animal transport. This is the only option for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, and select reptiles that cannot travel in the cabin.
Key Features of PetEmbark Cargo Travel
- Accepted species: Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, some reptiles (specific breed/species restrictions apply)
- Kennel requirements:
- Must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards
- Secure, escape-proof, well-ventilated
- Large enough for the pet to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably
- Booking timeline: Reserve PetEmbark services up to 10 days in advance, with a minimum recommended window of 24 hours ahead of travel
- Temperature restrictions:
- PETS ARE NOT ACCEPTED IF FORECAST TEMPERATURES EXCEED 85°F (29°C) OR DROP BELOW 45°F (7°C) at any point in the travel itinerary
- From May 1 to September 30, no cargo pets permitted to or from Phoenix, Tucson, Las Vegas, or Palm Springs due to extreme heat
- Fees: Vary according to animal size, container, and route — quoted at booking
- Sedation: Sedated dogs or cats will not be accepted. Acclimatization through carrier training is strongly advised.
Booking and Drop-Off Process
- Reservations must be made in advance, and requirements for documentation or veterinarian health certificates vary by route and species
- Pets must be dropped off at the designated cargo facility or special check-in counters — do not expect to check your pet at the main passenger counter
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals
As of 2025, American Airlines only recognizes dogs trained to perform specific disability-related tasks as service animals. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer afforded special status and must follow standard pet travel guidelines. Service dogs travel in the cabin with their handler for no additional fee and must meet behavioral and health requirements.
Breed Restrictions for Cargo
Due to increased health and ventilation risks, American Airlines does not accept certain breeds of dogs (particularly snub-nosed or “brachycephalic” breeds) and select cats in their cargo holds. This policy aims to protect pets from respiratory complications and heat stress during air travel.
| Breed Group | Breed Examples |
|---|---|
| Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) | Affenpinscher, American Bully, Boston Terrier, Boxer (all), Brussels Griffon, Bulldog (all), Cane Corso, Chow Chow, Dogue De Bordeaux, English Toy Spaniel, Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, Mastiff (all), Pekingese, Pit Bull, Presa Canario, Pug (all), Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Staffordshire Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel and more |
| Other Not Accepted | Detailed list may vary; consult carrier policy |
If unsure of your pet’s eligibility, always check the current breed restriction list with American Airlines prior to travel.
Costs and Charges
- In-Cabin (Carry-On) Pet Fee: $150 per pet, each way (subject to change; confirm when booking)
- Cargo Pet Fee: Varies by route, pet size, weight, and kennel; cost calculated at reservation
- International Pet Fee: $200 for select international cabin routes
Add-ons, such as extra baggage or specialized handling, may incur additional fees.
Prohibited Routes and Seasonal Bans
- Pets are not accepted in the cabin or cargo on trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights
- Seasonal embargo (May 1 – Sept 30): No pets to/from Phoenix, Tucson, Las Vegas, Palm Springs in cargo
Documentation and Health Certification
Documentation requirements vary depending on your destination:
- Domestic travel does not require advance documentation for in-cabin pets; cargo animals may need documentation
- International and select Hawaiian/territory routes require veterinary health certificates and compliance with animal import/export laws of the destination
- Service dogs require proof of certification or qualifying disability-related need
Expert Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book early: In-cabin and cargo spots are limited and fill fast, especially around holidays
- Acclimate your pet: Carrier or kennel training before the trip minimizes travel stress
- Hydration matters: Keep pets well-hydrated but avoid heavy feeding right before travel
- Line up documentation: Always double-check health certificate rules, especially for international travel
- Physical well-being: Sick, infirm, or pregnant animals should not travel unless cleared by a veterinarian
- Contact airlines directly: For clarifications and to confirm breed eligibility, age requirements, and specific route restrictions
Quick Reference Table: American Airlines 2025 Pet Policy Overview
| Travel Type | Allowed Pets | Key Restrictions | Cost (each way) | Route Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin (Carry-On) | Cats & small dogs (min. 8 weeks old) | Carrier size; under-seat only; 1 pet per passenger; limited to certain classes | $150 (domestic) $200 (select international) | No trans-Atlantic/Pacific; certain aircraft/classes excluded |
| Cargo (PetEmbark) | Cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, some reptiles | No snub-nosed breeds; temperature/seasonal limits; IATA kennel; health certificates | Varies by animal & route | Seasonal/temperature embargoes |
| Service Animals | Dogs trained for disabilities only | Certain behavioral/health rules Documentation required | No cost | Most domestic/int’l flights, with exceptions |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I bring my pet rabbit or bird in the cabin on American Airlines?
A: No. Only small cats and dogs are permitted as in-cabin pets on American Airlines. Rabbits, birds, and most other animals may be eligible for travel as air cargo via PetEmbark, depending on route and restrictions.
Q: Are there any weight limits for pets traveling in the cabin?
A: There is no official maximum weight limit for in-cabin animals, as long as the pet and carrier fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. However, size and fit are strictly enforced.
Q: Can two pets share the same carrier for in-cabin travel?
A: No. Only one animal per carrier is permitted for in-cabin travel. Each passenger is allowed to bring only one pet onboard.
Q: What documentation do I need for international pet travel on American Airlines?
A: International routes typically require a recent veterinary health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, and compliance with destination country’s import requirements. These must be arranged well in advance.
Q: Are sedated pets permitted on American Airlines?
A: No. Sedated pets are not accepted for cargo travel (and sedation is not recommended for in-cabin pets). Acclimatize your pet to their carrier instead and consult a veterinarian for advice.
Q: Does my emotional support animal (ESA) qualify for free travel?
A: No. As of 2025, only dogs trained to provide disability-specific tasks qualify as service animals. Emotional support animals must follow standard pet policies and applicable fees.
Q: How far in advance should I book my pet’s trip?
A: Book as early as possible, especially for cargo transport. PetEmbark reservations can be made up to 10 days in advance but are subject to availability, so advance planning is highly advised.
Final Thoughts and Resource Recommendations
Traveling with pets on American Airlines remains possible and convenient for many, so long as you plan with the latest requirements in mind. Carefully check current policies, breed restrictions, seasonal embargoes, and specific route limitations before booking for the best and safest travel experience. Pet owners are advised to consult official American Airlines resources and confirm up-to-date procedures prior to every trip.
For more pet-friendly travel planning, consult:
- Delta Pet Travel Policy: Essential guidelines and restrictions
- Alaska Airlines Pet Travel Policy: In-cabin and cargo rules
- Which Airlines Ship Cats? Guide to feline-friendly flights
This guide aims to provide pet families with confidence and reliable information for their next journey on American Airlines in 2025 and beyond.
