Flying with Emotional Support Animals
Air travel policies for emotional support animals have changed significantly in recent years. Understanding the current rules helps you plan trips with your companion animal and avoid surprises at the airport.
Current ESA Airline Policies
Since January 2021, the US Department of Transportation revised the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), allowing airlines to treat ESAs as regular pets rather than service animals. Most major US airlines — including Delta, United, American, Southwest, and JetBlue — no longer offer special accommodations for emotional support animals.
This means ESA owners flying domestically must typically follow the airline’s standard pet policy, which includes carrier size requirements and per-flight fees ranging from $35 to $150 each way.
Airlines That Still Accept ESAs
A small number of international airlines continue to recognize emotional support animals:
- LATAM Airlines — accepts ESAs on select routes within South America
- Volaris — allows ESAs on certain domestic Mexico flights
- Aeromexico — accepts ESAs with proper documentation
- Copa Airlines — allows ESAs on routes within Central and South America
Policies change frequently, so always verify directly with the airline before booking.
Airlines are not required to recognize emotional support animals as service animals. Airlines may treat emotional support animals as pets.
— US Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Policy
Psychiatric Service Dogs and Air Travel
Unlike ESAs, psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) retain full air travel rights under the Air Carrier Access Act. PSDs are recognized as service animals and can fly in the cabin at no additional cost on all US airlines.
Your Rights with a PSD
If you have a psychiatric service dog, airlines must allow your dog to fly in the cabin with you — regardless of the dog’s size or breed. The dog must be trained to perform at least one task related to your disability and must behave appropriately in the airport and on the aircraft.
Requirements for Flying with a PSD
Before your flight, you will need to:
- Complete the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form
- Confirm the dog is trained to perform disability-related tasks
- Notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure (recommended)
- Ensure your dog can fit within your foot space or on your lap
Airline-Specific Pet Policies
If you are traveling with an ESA or a pet, here is a summary of policies for major US airlines:
Delta Air Lines
Delta allows small pets in the cabin for a fee of $95 each way on domestic flights. Pets must be in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. Delta does not accept ESAs but fully accommodates PSDs at no charge.
United Airlines
United charges $125 per pet per segment for in-cabin travel. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. United accepts PSDs with the required DOT documentation.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest allows small vaccinated dogs and cats in the cabin for $125 per carrier one-way. Only trained service animals fly free. Southwest limits pets to six per flight on a first-come basis.
American Airlines
American charges $150 per carrier each way for cabin pets. Only trained PSDs and other service animals fly at no cost. American requires the DOT service animal form to be submitted at least 48 hours before departure.
JetBlue
JetBlue charges $125 per pet carrier each way. Cats and dogs only, with weight and carrier size restrictions. PSDs fly free with proper documentation.
Tips for Traveling with Your Pet
Whether flying with a PSD, ESA as a pet, or any companion animal, these tips help ensure a smooth travel experience:
- Book direct flights whenever possible to reduce stress on your animal
- Choose an airline-approved carrier and let your pet acclimate to it before the trip
- Visit your veterinarian before travel — some airlines require a health certificate
- Arrive early to allow time for check-in and security with your animal
- Bring familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy for comfort
- Keep water and treats accessible during the flight
