Washingtonians who tend to bring their little furry friends with them while they travel by air will be pleased to hear that American Airlines is changing their pet policy! The airline, which has a major hub at one of Washington, D.C.’s principal airports, Reagan National, is making it easier for pet owners to travel without costing them an arm and a leg (or a paw and a tail).
What is the new American Airlines pet policy?
American Airline’s updated pet policy now states that pet-owner passengers will no longer have to choose between a full-size carry-on and their pet’s carrier, changing a policy they’ve had in place for quite some time!
Before, passengers were strictly limited to only a small personal item, such as a purse or handbag, which would fit under their seat if they planned to bring a pet carrier on board, with no possibility of bringing a full-size carry-on.
In the past, if you tried to board with a carry-on bag and a pet carrier, you were forced to pay a $35 fee to check the bag at the gate, which is no longer the case.
However, the crucial distinction in this updated pet policy for American Airlines is that now, in addition to a pet carrier, the passenger can board the flight with either a full-size carry-on, or a personal item, but not both.
Additionally, any pet stroller or additional items aside from their approved carrier will need to be checked before boarding, but this is consistent with American Airline’s prior policy, which has not been changed.
How much does it cost to take your pet on the flight?
The price to board the flight with your pet safely stowed in your pet carrier remains the same, $150 according to American Airline’s website.
Now, bringing a full-size carry-on bag with you on the flight is free, assuming two things; one that it meets the size criteria and fits properly in the overhead compartment, and two, that you are not also trying to board with a personal item, like a purse or handbag.
As mentioned above, the new pet policy specifies that you can travel with only one item aside from your pet carrier, which can be a personal item or a carry-on, but not both.
What pets are permitted by American Airlines?
While only dogs and cats are permitted to travel on American Airlines flights, assuming they meet the size, age, and destination requirements, a situational aspect, such as plane model, other passengers having allergies, or even the amount of other pets on board can still impact your ability to fly with your pets.
This is why it is important to reach out to the airlines in advance to clarify and confirm your pet’s right to travel, even if you have already paid the $150 fee to add your pet as a ‘carry-on’.