Below is a list of airlines, their key requirements, and detailed policies to help you plan a smooth journey with your ESA.
LATAM Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals on flights within South America and some international routes. To qualify, passengers must provide a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional issued no more than one year prior to the flight. Advance notice of at least 48 hours is required, and animals must remain calm and fit within the designated cabin space. Restrictions on breed, weight, and size may apply depending on the aircraft.
LATAM Airlines
Key Requirement: ESA letter and forms
Volaris permits Emotional Support Animals on flights within Mexico and select international routes. Passengers must submit a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional and a health certificate verifying the animal’s good health. The documentation must be issued no more than 10 days before travel. ESAs must behave appropriately and fit in the passenger’s foot space without obstructing aisles or other passengers.
Volaris
Key Requirement: Health certificate and ESA letter
Aeromexico allows ESAs on domestic and international flights. Passengers must provide a recent ESA letter from a mental health professional and health documentation for the animal, such as a vaccination record. The ESA must weigh no more than 15 kg (33 lbs), remain leashed or in a pet carrier, and be well-behaved during the flight. Advance notification of at least 48 hours is required to confirm ESA accommodations.
Aeromexico
Key Requirement: ESA letter and health documentation
Air Canada allows ESAs on select flights, primarily for passengers with mental health conditions who require their ESA’s presence. Passengers must present a valid ESA letter from a licensed medical professional and provide advance notice at least 48 hours prior to the flight. Animals must fit within the cabin space without obstructing other passengers. Restrictions may apply to certain breeds or large animals.
Air Canada
Key Requirement: ESA letter and advance booking
WestJet permits Emotional Support Animals for passengers with verified mental health needs. A valid ESA letter from a licensed medical professional must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure. The animal must remain calm, leashed, or secured in a suitable carrier throughout the flight. Weight and size restrictions may vary based on the aircraft type, and advance coordination is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth experience.
WestJet
Key Requirement: ESA letter and advance notice
*Policies and fees can change depending on routes and flight types, so always confirm with the airline before booking your ESA’s travel.
Following the 2021 changes to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), many airlines have updated their policies to no longer accommodate Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals. Instead, ESAs are treated as regular pets, subject to pet policies and fees.
Here are the airlines that no longer allow ESAs:
While these airlines do not recognize ESAs, they still allow pets in the cabin for a fee, subject to their size and weight restrictions. Always review the pet travel policies of the airline before booking.
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) previously required airlines to accommodate Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) revised these rules in January 2021, significantly altering ESA travel rights. Understanding these updates is essential for ESA owners planning to fly.
The updated ACAA regulations give airlines the discretion to classify ESAs as pets instead of service animals. This shift removes the mandatory requirement to accommodate ESAs in airplane cabins, impacting how and where ESAs can travel.
These changes mean ESA owners must check individual airline pet policies, as travel accommodations for ESAs now vary significantly across airlines. Planning ahead ensures a smoother experience for both you and your ESA.
To make flying stress-free for both you and your emotional support animal, follow these practical tips to prepare and meet airline requirements.
Confirm the airline’s pet or ESA policies, fees, and required documentation well in advance.
Notify the airline as soon as possible to ensure proper arrangements for your ESA.
Carry valid ESA letters, health certificates, and vaccination records as required.
Ensure your ESA’s carrier meets airline specifications for size, comfort, and ventilation.
Familiarize your ESA with carriers, airport environments, and longer stays in confined spaces.
Bring food, water, a leash, waste bags, and comfort items like blankets or toys for your ESA.
Arrive with extra time to check in, go through security, and settle your ESA before the flight.
Want to know more about individual airline policies for emotional support animals? Click below to explore comprehensive guides for each airline and ensure a hassle-free journey with your ESA.
Follow our simple process to get a valid ESA letter for air travel quickly and easily.
*Arkansas, California, Iowa, Louisiana, and Montana require a 30-day client-provider relationship and two consultations before issuing an ESA letter.
Get StartedWe offer a full refund if your ESA letter is not approved.
Unlike Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) and other service dogs are recognized under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These animals are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, including psychiatric conditions, and are granted certain rights when traveling.
Airlines are legally required to accommodate PSDs and service dogs in the cabin free of charge, regardless of breed or size.
Passengers must complete and submit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form, confirming the dog's health, training, and behavior. Some airlines may request this form at least 48 hours prior to travel.
Service dogs and PSDs must be well-behaved, remain under the handler’s control, and sit in the handler’s foot space during the flight.
Unlike ESAs, PSDs and service dogs must be trained to perform specific tasks that assist individuals with disabilities, such as alerting to panic attacks, retrieving medication, or guiding visually impaired individuals.
Airlines cannot charge fees for PSDs or service dogs, as they are not considered pets but essential medical aids.
Are there weight or size restrictions for ESAs on airlines that allow them?
Yes, airlines that allow emotional support animals often have weight and size restrictions. The ESA must fit comfortably within the passenger's designated foot space or under the seat in front of them.
If the animal is too large or heavy to meet these requirements, some airlines may require the ESA to travel in the cargo hold or deny its transport altogether. Policies can vary, so it’s essential to check with the airline before booking.
What should I pack when traveling with my Emotional Support Animal?
When traveling with your ESA, pack these essentials to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip:
Being prepared helps reduce stress for both you and your ESA.
Are ESAs allowed on international flights?
Yes, some airlines allow ESAs on international flights, but regulations can vary depending on the airline and destination country. Some countries have strict rules about animal entry, including mandatory quarantine, vaccination records, and health certificates. It’s crucial to research both the airline’s ESA policy and the destination country’s animal import regulations well in advance to avoid any complications.
How do airline ESA policies differ between domestic and international routes?
Airline ESA policies can differ significantly between domestic and international flights.
Always confirm policies for both your airline and the destination country before booking an international flight.
Can my ESA travel in the cabin or does it need to go in cargo?
For airlines that still allow ESAs, most permit small and well-behaved animals to travel in the cabin, provided they fit within the designated foot space or under the seat. Larger ESAs that exceed size or weight limits may be required to travel in the cargo hold.
What happens if my ESA misbehaves during a flight?
If your ESA misbehaves—such as barking excessively, acting aggressively, or disrupting the cabin—airline staff may take corrective action. This could include:
To avoid issues, ensure your ESA is well-trained, familiar with confined spaces, and capable of remaining calm during flights.
Traveling with an emotional support animal requires careful planning and an understanding of updated airline policies. While some airlines still allow ESAs, others classify them as pets, subject to specific fees and restrictions. By knowing the rules, preparing proper documentation, and following airline guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your ESA. Always check with your chosen airline in advance to stay informed and avoid surprises. Safe travels!
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