American Airlines Pet Policy: How to transport a pet in 2025

Home How to transport a pet on a plane 2026: Policies, Costs & Weight Limits for All Major Airlines American Airlines Pet Policy: How to transport a pet in 2025

Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026

Number of pets per passenger – 1

Number of pets on board – 7

Animals can travel on most flights that are up to 12 hours or to and from certain destinations: within the contiguous US, plus Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.

Pet Documentation Requirements

Book at least 48 hours before travel
Check in on the ticket with your official bookings
Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)

Provide a health certificate
To determine the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a veterinarian within:
10 days of your travel
60 days of your return (traveling on the same ticket)
10 days from your return (traveling on a separate ticket)

Vaccination requirements

When entering the US from countries with a high risk of rabies, please note the regulations

In-Cabin Policy – Only cats and dogs are allowed

Сost of transportation in the cabin – $150

Cost of transportation in cargo – Varies, fees will be confirmed at time of booking.

Approved pet carrier sizes – Soft Pet Carrier: 18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters
Hard Carrier (US Mainline Flights): 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters
Hard Carrier (American Eagle Flights): 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters

Read here how to choose a comfortable carrier for your pet traveling by plane.

Restrictions – Pets under sedation are not accepted on board.

Official airline rules

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American Airlines Pet Policy