In this article, we explore all the dog-friendly airlines that will allow you to keep your furry friend by your side every step of the way. Travelling with your dog makes every journey more exciting and enjoyable for both of you, and more hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, airports, beaches, and tour operators are welcoming furry companions. Without further ado, let's get started.
Lufthansa
Deutsche Lufthansa AG, part of the renowned Lufthansa Group, stands as a leader in the German airline industry. Lufthansa German Airlines, branded as Lufthansa, is Germany’s prestigious flag carrier and the cornerstone of the Lufthansa Group.
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Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines allows service dogs in the cabin with no weight limits, provided they can fit comfortably on your lap or at your feet without blocking the aisle or interfering with other passengers.
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United Airlines
United Airlines has established rules for those travelling with dogs. Well-behaved large dogs that meet the airline’s guidelines are permitted to fly in the cabin.
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American Airlines
American Airlines accommodates service and emotional support animals in the cabin, with no weight restrictions.
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Frontier Airlines
Frontier Group Holdings, Inc., known as Frontier Airlines, is a leading ultra low-cost airline based in Denver, Colorado.
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Spirit Airlines
Headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, Spirit Airlines is a leading ultra-low-cost airline serving the Miami metropolitan area.
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Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a Honolulu-based commercial airline under the Alaska Air Group umbrella. It operates more commercial flights to and from Hawaiʻi than any other airline.
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JetBlue
JetBlue Airways Corporation is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Long Island City, Queens, New York, operating over 1,000 flights daily.
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Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines, a household name in the U.S., transitioned from a low-cost carrier to one of the country’s most recognized airlines.
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Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines, based in SeaTac, Washington, is a leading American airline serving the Seattle metropolitan area.
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JSX
JSX offers a semi-private travel experience that lets passengers skip busy terminals, lengthy security checks, and chaotic boarding processes.
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Bark Air
BARK Air positions itself as the first air travel service designed with dogs as the primary focus, followed by their human companions.
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Aero Airlines
Aero is a U.S. leisure airline that began operations in 2019.T he airline offers leisure travel services tailored to affluent and high-end clientele.
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Tradewind Aviation
Experience effortless scheduled and private flights to premier destinations across North America, the Caribbean, and beyond.
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NetJets Inc
NetJets began as a pioneer in private jet charter and management and has remained a leader in the field for over a generation.
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Set Jet
Set Jet is a membership-based private jet charter service committed to providing a truly enjoyable private aviation experience.
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American Airlines
In-cabin: $150/kennel. Small pets only. Cargo: Available via AA Cargo for large dogs (civilian passengers limited - mainly military/gov). Active-duty military can check pets. Major carrier with pet transport options.
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Alaska Airlines
In-cabin: $100 each way. Cargo: Available year-round for large dogs via Alaska Air Cargo. One of few airlines still offering cargo pet transport for general public. Weight/size restrictions apply.
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United Airlines
In-cabin: $150 each way, must fit under seat. Cargo: PetSafe program discontinued for general public. Only available for military/government employees. Limited large dog options for civilians.
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Delta Air Lines
In-cabin: $150-$200 depending on route. Soft kennel max 18x11x11. Cargo: Not available for large pets except active military/government. Delta Cargo suspended general pet transport.
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Southwest Airlines
In-cabin only: $125 each way. Small dogs/cats only, must fit under seat. No cargo option. Pet-friendly for small breeds. Six pets per flight maximum. Advance booking required.
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JetBlue Airways
JetPaws program: $125 each way. In-cabin only, no cargo. Small dogs/cats under 20 lbs in carrier. Fits under seat. No large dog transport available. Four pets per flight.
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Frontier Airlines
In-cabin: $99 each way. Small pets only, must fit in carrier under seat. No cargo program. Budget-friendly option for small dogs. Advance notification required.
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Spirit Airlines
In-cabin: $125 each way. Small pets only in carrier under seat. No cargo service. Ultra-low-cost carrier allowing small dogs. Book in advance as spots limited.
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Hawaiian Airlines
In-cabin: $35 inter-island, $125 transpacific. Cargo: Available for larger dogs. Important for Hawaii travel due to state quarantine requirements. Pet-friendly for island destinations.
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Lufthansa
In-cabin: Small pets in carrier. Cargo: Available for large dogs via Lufthansa Cargo. International carrier with comprehensive pet transport. Weight limits and breed restrictions apply. Good for overseas travel.
Visit Lufthansa websiteFrequently asked questions
Which US airlines allow dogs in the cabin?
Most major US carriers — Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest and United — accept small dogs in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Frontier and Spirit also allow in-cabin pets. Each airline caps the number of pets per flight, so book the pet add-on at the same time you book your seat.
How much does it cost to fly a dog in the US?
In-cabin pet fees typically range from $95 to $150 each way on US carriers. Cargo (checked) shipping costs significantly more — usually several hundred dollars — and is only available on a few airlines for non-snub-nosed breeds.
What size dog can fly in the cabin?
The limit is set by the under-seat space, not a strict weight, but most airlines require the dog plus carrier to be small enough that the dog can stand and turn around. In practice this means dogs under about 20 lbs. The carrier counts as your personal item.