United Airlines offers cargo travel through its PetSafe® program for pets and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) that can’t fly in the cabin due to size. Only dogs and cats are accepted, and they must travel in IATA-approved kennels. Snub-nosed breeds are not allowed due to health risks. Advance booking is required, along with a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Fees depend on the pet’s size, kennel, and route. Weather and temperature restrictions may also apply for safety.
United Airlines has specific policies to ensure the safety and comfort of pets and service animals during travel. Below are the essential guidelines you need to follow.
These comprehensive policies cover everything travelers need to know when flying with animals, ensuring compliance, safety, and a comfortable journey for those who choose to fly on United Airlines
Pets must be transported in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Hard-sided carriers must not exceed 17.5 inches x 12 inches x 7.5 inches (44 cm x 30 cm x 19 cm), while soft-sided carriers can be up to 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm). A fee of $150 USD each way applies. An additional $150 fee is charged for layovers exceeding 4 hours domestically or 24 hours internationally. Passengers with in-cabin pets cannot be seated in exit rows, bulkhead seats, or United Premium Plus seats.
United Airlines has suspended its PetSafe® program and does not currently accept pets for travel in the cargo hold, except for active-duty U.S. military and Foreign Service personnel on official orders.
Only trained service dogs are recognized; emotional support animals are not considered service animals. Passengers must submit the U.S. Department of Transportation's Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before the flight. Each passenger may travel with up to two service dogs. The dogs must fit within the passenger's foot space without obstructing aisles or other passengers.
United Airlines does not accept certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds due to health risks associated with air travel. This includes, but is not limited to, Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, and Persian cats.
Must allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Hard-sided carriers: maximum dimensions of 17.5 inches x 12 inches x 7.5 inches. Soft-sided carriers: up to 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches.
Required Documents
Pets: Health certificates are encouraged for domestic flights and required for international travel. Ensure all destination-specific documentation is prepared in advance.
Service Dogs: Submission of the DOT's Service Animal Air Transportation Form is mandatory at least 48 hours before departure.
Advance Notice Required
Notify United Airlines in advance when traveling with a pet or service dog, as there is a limited number of pets allowed per flight. Reservations can be made online or by contacting customer service.
Health and Behavior Standards
All animals must be healthy, well-behaved, and non-disruptive. United Airlines reserves the right to deny boarding to any animal that poses a safety risk or causes a disturbance
Here’s a quick look at the important details of United Airlines' updated ESA policies:
Emotional Support Animals are no longer considered service animals, meaning they must follow standard pet travel rules.
A $150 fee applies for each flight when traveling with your ESA. If it’s a return ticket, you’ll have to pay $300. This fee covers the animal’s cabin space and must be paid at the time of booking.
Your ESA must fit in a carrier under the seat, and the animal should be small enough (typically under 15 pounds).
Larger animals that don't fit in the cabin will need to be transported in the cargo hold, but United no longer offers a dedicated cargo pet service.
These are still allowed to travel for free, as long as they are trained to assist with psychiatric disabilities.
ESAs must be well-behaved during the flight. Disruptive behavior could prevent your animal from being allowed on board.
Your ESA should be in good health, and you may need to provide a health certificate if requested.
United Airlines allows only a limited number of pets per flight, so booking early is advised to ensure your ESA can travel with you.
During layovers, pets must remain in their carriers at all times unless in designated pet relief areas, which are available at many airports. You can use the United app to locate these areas. For layovers exceeding four hours on domestic flights or 24 hours on international flights, an additional $150 fee applies.
Yes, United Airlines does not allow certain short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats to travel as checked pets due to health concerns. Always check the most current restricted breed list before booking.
If your carrier exceeds size limits for under-seat storage, your pet may not be eligible to travel in the cabin. United does not offer checked baggage pet transport but partners with PetSafe for cargo travel. Make sure the kennel meets IATA and United Cargo requirements.
Yes. PetSafe has strict temperature guidelines. Pets will not be accepted when the forecasted temperature exceeds 85°F or falls below 45°F at any point in the itinerary unless you have a veterinarian-issued acclimation certificate.
If your pet cannot travel due to airline restrictions or other issues, United’s regular fare rules apply. Refunds or rescheduling eligibility depends on your original ticket type and terms.
To keep your pet comfortable, bring familiar items like blankets or toys, and help your pet get used to its carrier before travel. Consult your vet for calming strategies or medications if needed.
United recommends arriving at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights when traveling with pets or service animals to allow time for check-in and document review.
Yes. In-cabin pets must be checked in at the airport (they cannot be checked in online). You'll need to go to a staffed ticket counter with all documentation and the pet carrier for review and approval.
If your pet is showing signs of illness, distress, or aggression, United may refuse transport in the interest of safety. You may be required to rebook or provide medical clearance before flying again.
United Airlines charges a fee of $150 each way for pets traveling in the cabin. This applies to flights operated by United or United Express.
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