American Airlines: Key Policy Updates on Emotional Support Animals

As of February 1, 2021, American Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin. However, trained service dogs that meet specific behavior and health criteria for individuals with disabilities are still welcome on board. Read on to learn the important updates regarding this airline’s policies for a seamless travel experience.

Key Rules for Traveling with Pets and ESAs

American Airlines has clear rules for traveling with pets and service dogs. Below are the key points to follow for a smooth and safe trip.

ESAs and Pets in the Cabin
American Airlines allows small pets like dogs and cats to travel in the cabin. Your pet must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. The fee for bringing a pet into the cabin is $125 per flight.
Breed Restrictions for ESAs
American Airlines does not allow some breeds, like bulldogs, pugs, or Persian cats, because of safety issues. Always check if your pet’s breed is allowed.
Carrier Size
Your ESA’s carrier must fit under the seat if your pet is flying in the cabin. The maximum carrier size is 19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm). The carrier should also be big enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Domestic vs. International Travel
ESAs and pets can travel on most U.S. domestic flights, but it’s a good idea to check the specific rules for your flight. For international flights, you may need extra documents like health certificates and vaccination records. Some destinations may also have quarantine rules.
Documentation and Advance Notice For ESAs & Pets
You may need a health certificate and vaccination records, especially for international flights.
You must inform American Airlines at least 48 hours before your flight if you’re traveling with a pet or service dog. This helps make sure everything is in order for your trip.
Animal Health and Behavior
All pets and service dogs must be healthy and well-behaved. If your animal is sick or aggressive, American Airlines may not allow it to board for safety reasons.

If you are flying to another country, you must follow that country’s pet rules. Some places require health certificates, vaccines, or even quarantine for animals. If your pet does not meet these rules, it may not be allowed to enter or may have to stay in quarantine.

It is your responsibility to follow all airline and legal rules before traveling. Checking these rules in advance will help you avoid problems and ensure a smooth trip.

Cargo Options for ESA & Pets Under American Airlines’ Policy

Under American Airlines’ updated ESA policy, emotional support animals are no longer classified as service animals and must travel as pets. For larger animals that cannot travel in the cabin due to size restrictions, American Airlines offers cargo travel options. Animals must be placed in airline-approved kennels that meet ventilation and comfort standards. Fees for cargo travel vary based on the pet's size, weight, and destination. Advance booking and compliance with all necessary health and documentation requirements are mandatory.

Key Highlights of American Airlines’ Updated ESA and Pet Policies

Here are the main policy updates American Airlines implemented following changes to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in 2021:

No Acceptance of Emotional Support Animals

Under American Airlines’ updated policy, effective February 1, 2021, ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals. ESAs must now travel as pets and comply with the airline’s pet policy regarding size, carrier requirements, and associated fees.

Pets Are Allowed in the Cabin

American Airlines permits small pets, such as cats and dogs, to travel in the cabin inside a pet carrier. Pets must remain in an approved kennel that fits under the seat. Cabin pet fees start at $125 per kennel, each way.

Larger Pets Travel as Cargo

Larger pets that exceed the size limits for in-cabin travel must be transported as cargo. Fees and requirements for cargo travel vary based on the pet's size and destination, and advance arrangements are required.

Psychiatric Service Dogs Fly for Free

American Airlines continues to accommodate Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) and other service dogs at no additional cost. These dogs must be trained to perform tasks related to the handler’s disability. The airline permits one service dog per passenger.

Advance Notification is Required

Passengers traveling with pets or service dogs are required to notify American Airlines at least 48 hours before the flight. This ensures all forms and documentation are reviewed and approved for a seamless journey.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the laws for travelling with an ESA.

American Airlines Policies for Psychiatric Service Dogs and Service Dogs

American Airlines welcomes PSDs and other trained service dogs to support passengers with disabilities or issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, free of charge. These animals are recognized under the ACAA and are exempt from pet travel fees. However, passengers must meet certain requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Here are the key requirements:

Training Requirements
Service dogs and PSDs must be professionally trained to perform tasks related to the handler's disability. This can include assisting with mobility, providing emotional support, or alerting to medical conditions.
Behavior Standards
Service dogs and PSDs must be well-behaved, under the control of their handler, and not disrupt other passengers or cabin operations. American Airlines reserves the right to deny travel if the dog’s behavior presents a safety concern.
Cabin Placement
Service dogs must remain in the handler's foot space, without blocking the aisle or seats. Only one service dog is allowed per passenger.
Documents Required:
Before arriving at the airport, passengers must notify American Airlines at least 48 hours in advance and submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form. For flights over 8 hours, a Service Animal Relief Attestation Form is also required. A health certificate may be needed for international travel.

Key Takeaways from American Airlines ESA Policy

ESAs are no longer allowed in the cabin and must travel as regular pets.
ESAs must follow American Airlines' pet travel policy, including carrier size requirements and pet fees.
Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) and other trained service dogs can fly free of charge, provided the proper documentation is submitted.
Pets traveling in the cabin must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat, with size limits of 19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm).
Pets that exceed the in-cabin size limit must travel as cargo, with approved kennels and advance booking required.
Passengers must notify American Airlines at least 48 hours in advance when traveling with a pet or service dog to confirm arrangements and documentation.
All animals must be healthy and well-behaved. Aggressive or unfit animals may be denied boarding for safety reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are ESAs no longer allowed on American Airlines flights?

As of January 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. As a result, ESAs must now travel as pets and adhere to the airline’s pet policy.

Can my ESA still fly with me as a pet?

Yes, if you have been approved for travel, your ESA can travel with you as a pet. However, it must be placed in an approved carrier that fits under the seat and follows the airline's pet travel guidelines, including paying the appropriate fees.

Is there a fee for traveling with my pet on American Airlines?

Yes, there is a fee of $125 per pet for each flight segment when traveling with a pet in the cabin. Larger pets that travel as checked baggage or cargo will have different fees based on size and weight.

Can I travel with my service dog for free on American Airlines?

Yes, service dogs, including PSDs, are allowed to travel for free with proper documentation. Service dogs must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times during the flight.

Are there any breed restrictions for pets traveling on American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines restricts certain breeds of pets, especially brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats, for safety reasons. This is particularly important in the cabin and exit row areas.

How can I confirm that my pet is eligible to travel in the cabin?

Your pet must fit in an approved carrier that fits under the seat, with maximum dimensions of 19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm). If traveling with a carry-on pet, be sure it is placed under the seat in front of you. Pets traveling as cargo must meet different requirements.

Can I take my ESA on an international flight with American Airlines?

Since ESAs are no longer recognized, they must travel as pets and comply with the airline’s pet travel policy for international flights. This may include health documentation, vaccination records, and meeting country-specific regulations.

What documents do I need to fly with my emotional support dog?

American Airlines does not require special documents for ESAs. However, for international flights, you may need a health certificate and vaccination records, depending on the country you're traveling to. Always check the rules for your specific destination.

Does American Airlines require a health certificate for dogs?

American Airlines does not require a health certificate for dogs traveling on domestic flights. However, for international travel, a health certificate may be required, depending on the destination country’s regulations.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), certain countries require health certificates to ensure that animals are free from diseases. Passengers should check the specific requirements of both American Airlines and the destination country before traveling.

Can airlines ask for proof of disability?

No, Airlines cannot ask for proof of disability when you are traveling with an ESA, as they are treated as pets. However, American Airlines does require passengers with service dogs to submit the United States Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form before travel. This form confirms that the dog is trained and behaves properly in public.