Delta Airlines ESA Policy: Current Regulations and Key Information

As of 2021, Delta Airlines no longer recognizes Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals, hence, they are not allowed in the cabin. ESA owners can still travel with their animals by following Delta’s regular pet travel policy, which includes using an approved carrier and paying the pet fees. Service animals that assist people with disabilities are still allowed on board, but they have certain rules. Read on for more.

Traveling with Pets or Emotional Support Animals on Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines has clear policies for passengers traveling with pets or service animals. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, understanding these rules ensures a hassle-free experience.

Pet/ESA Fee Cost
The pet fee or each ESA is $125 per flight for U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico routes. Ensure the carrier provides enough space for your pet to sit, stand, and move comfortably.
Breed Restrictions
Bigger dogs, regardless of the breed, are not allowed in the cabin due to their size. Delta prohibits certain snub-nosed breeds, such as pit bull-type dogs or bulldogs and Persian cats, due to respiratory risks during air travel. Always verify breed restrictions before making your reservation.
Documentation Requirements
For domestic flights, Delta doesn’t require special documents for ESAs. However, for international flights, you will need an updated health certificate and vaccination records, depending on the destination.
Carrier Dimensions
For in-cabin pets, carriers must not exceed 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches (45.7 cm x 27.9 cm x 27.9 cm). The kennel must be well-ventilated and allow the pet to move comfortably.
Domestic vs. International Travel
On a domestic flight, pets are accepted on most U.S. routes without major restrictions. For international flights, additional documentation, health screenings, and quarantine regulations may apply, depending on the destination.
Planning Ahead for Smooth Travel
Delta strongly advises passengers to notify the airline at least 48 hours before their flight is scheduled if traveling with pets or ESAs. This allows time to meet all requirements need to accept an emotional support animal on board and ensure proper arrangements.

Transportation Options for Larger Pets and Emotional Support Animals

For animals that exceed the size and weight limits for cabin travel, Delta Airlines provides safe and reliable options for cargo transportation. Pets can travel in the checked baggage compartment or via Delta Cargo services, depending on their dimensions and needs.
Animals must be secured in airline-approved kennels that meet Delta’s standards for ventilation, durability, and comfort. Fees for cargo travel are determined by the animal's size, weight, and travel route. To ensure a seamless process, Delta requires advance reservations and compliance with all health, documentation, and safety protocols.

Delta Airlines Policy on Emotional Support Animals: What Travelers Need to Know

Delta Airlines has revised its policies regarding the transportation of ESAs. Below is an overview of Delta’s current rules for ESAs, pets, and trained service animals.

Emotional Support Animals Are No Longer Permitted
Delta Airlines no longer classifies ESAs as service animals. ESAs must now travel as standard pets, subject to restrictions on size, carrier dimensions, and additional fees based on flight routes.
Guidelines for Traveling with Pets/ESA
Delta welcomes small pets in the cabin, provided they are transported in an airline-approved kennel that fits beneath the seat. Larger animals are not permitted in the cabin, and you should check if baggage options are available for space. Fees vary by destination and pet size.
Fully Trained Service Animals Allowed Free of Charge
Delta continues to accept trained service animals at no extra cost. Passengers may bring one service animal trained to assist with a disability. Supporting documentation and advance notice are typically required.
Advance Planning for a Stress-Free Journey
To ensure a smooth travel experience, Delta advises passengers to notify the airline well ahead of their flight when traveling with pets or service animals. This helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with airline policies.

Delta Air Lines Guidelines for Psychiatric Service Dogs and Service Animals

Delta Air Lines allows trained service dogs and Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) to travel free of charge to assist passengers with disabilities. These animals are recognized under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and are exempt from pet travel fees.

Passengers must comply with specific requirements to ensure smooth and safe travel:

Training Standards for Service Animals
Service dogs and PSDs must be professionally trained to perform tasks directly related to the passenger’s disability. Examples include assisting during medical emergencies, providing mobility support, or mitigating psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety or panic attacks.
Required Documentation
Delta requires passengers traveling with a PSD or service dog to submit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form. This document confirms the dog’s health, training, and behavior.
- For flights lasting more than 8 hours, passengers must also complete an additional form verifying the dog’s ability to remain in the cabin without relieving itself.
- All documents should be submitted at least 48 hours before the flight.
Behavior Expectations
Service dogs and PSDs must remain under the handler’s control at all times. The animals must exhibit calm and non-disruptive behavior throughout the flight. Aggressive or inappropriately behaved animals may be denied boarding for safety reasons.
Cabin Seating Arrangements
Service dogs are required to fit within the handler’s seating area, such as at their feet. These animals must not block aisles or encroach upon neighboring passengers’ spaces. Delta permits a maximum of two service dogs per passenger.
Advance Notice and Planning
Delta recommends that passengers traveling with a service animal notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure. This allows proper time to review service animal air travel forms, confirm arrangements, and address any specific needs or questions.

Delta Air Lines is committed to providing accessible travel options while maintaining safety and comfort for all passengers. Passengers with service animals should prepare in advance to ensure compliance with these guidelines.

Summing Up Delta Airlines Policies for Pets or ESAs

Delta allows trained service dogs and Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) to travel free under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
Passengers must submit DOT forms confirming the dog’s health, behavior, and training at least 48 hours before the flight.
A maximum of two service dogs is permitted per passenger.
Small pets (dogs, cats, birds) are allowed in the cabin for a $125 fee per segment, provided they fit in an airline-approved carrier under the seat.
Larger pets must use Delta Cargo services, as checked baggage is no longer an option.
Certain snub-nosed breeds (e.g., bulldogs, Persian cats) are restricted due to safety concerns.
Passengers must notify Delta 48 hours in advance to ensure all documentation is reviewed and arrangements are confirmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my ESA on a Delta flight if I don't have a disability?

No, only passengers with a documented disability are permitted to travel with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). The animal must be necessary for the passenger’s mental or emotional well-being.

What are the specific breed restrictions for ESAs on Delta Air Lines?

While Delta allows ESAs in the cabin, certain breeds, particularly aggressive or brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, are prohibited for safety reasons. It’s essential to check Delta’s list of restricted breeds before booking.

Can my ESA travel in the cabin with me on international flights?

Yes, ESAs can travel on international flights with proper documentation. However, additional regulations may apply depending on the destination country, including health certificates, vaccination records, and possible quarantine requirements.

What happens if my ESA causes a disturbance during the flight?

If an ESA is disruptive, Delta reserves the right to remove the animal from the flight. The ESA must remain calm, controlled, and non-disruptive throughout the flight.

Are there any special accommodations for ESAs on long flights?

For flights over 8 hours, Delta may require additional documentation verifying that the ESA can manage the flight duration without causing distress or needing to relieve itself in the cabin.

Can I travel with multiple ESAs on the same flight?

Delta only permits one ESA per passenger in the cabin. If you need to travel with multiple animals, one may need to be transported as a pet under Delta’s pet policy.

What should I do if I am unsure about the ESA requirements?

If you are unsure about the requirements or need assistance, it’s recommended to contact Delta customer service in advance. They can provide guidance and help ensure that all necessary documentation is in order.

Are Birds, Farm Poultry, and Waterfowl Considered ESAs on Delta Airlines?

No, birds, farm poultry, and waterfowl are not considered ESAs under Delta Airlines' policy. Farm, poultry, waterfowl, game birds, etc, may be allowed to travel as pets; they must follow the airline's regular pet travel rules, which include size and carrier requirements. ESAs must be specifically trained to assist a person with a disability, which farm poultry and waterfowl do not meet.