One of the easiest ways to travel around the Americas with a pet is by flying, especially if you have a dog or cat small enough to fly in the cabin. The vast majority of airlines in the region permit small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin, both on domestic and international routes.
To help you with planning to fly around North and South America with your pet, I’ve reviewed the pet policies of every major American airline, including 40 airlines located in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Find out size and weight restrictions, fees and other key points for flying with different airlines, as of December 2023.
Read on to find out more about North & South American airlines that allow dogs in the cabin…
Do Any North & South American Airlines Not Allow Pets in the Cabin?
The vast majority of North & South American airlines conveniently allow pets to fly in the cabin. Out of the listed airlines, only the following major airlines don’t allow pets to fly in the cabin:
- Boliviana de Aviación
- Caribbean Airlines
- Cubana (except possibly Yorkshire dogs)
- Sunwing
Note however that some airlines don’t allow pets on all routes. For example, some airlines only fly pets on domestic flights, and many airlines don’t fly pets to and from Hawaii.
A number of South American airlines also restrict pets on flights to and from the United States, possibly since the introduction of restrictions for transporting pets from high-rabies countries to the USA.
What is the Most Pet-Friendly Airline in North & South America?
Out of the North & South American airlines listed below, the most pet-friendly airline is JSX.
JSX is not a major airline, but a smaller airline operating a growing “hop-on jet service”, with some special perks for customers, especially pet owners.
Previously, small pets in a carrier could travel for free, but a pet fee was introduced in July 2023 for new bookings. Medium-to-large dogs can also fly in the cabin, with the option to buy an adjacent seat.
Just be warned giant dogs are still not allowed on board – there is a weight limit of 79 lbs (35.8kg).
Do Any North & South American Airlines Have No Weight Limit?
A number of United States airlines have no maximum weight limit for pets flying in the cabin. Note though that there are maximum dimensions for pet carriers, as they need to fit under the seat in front, and your pet will need to comfortably fit and move inside their carrier.
These are the airlines that have no weight limit for pets flying in the cabin:
- Air Canada
- Alaska Airlines
- Allegiant Air
- American Airlines
- Avelo
- Delta Air Lines
- Frontier Airlines
- JSX (for pets in carriers)
- PAL Airlines
- Porter Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
- United Airlines
- Volaris
- WestJet
Do Any North & South American Airlines Have a Higher Weight Limit?
The most common weight limit of American airlines is 10kg (22 lbs), higher than the standard weight limit of 8kg that applies for most European airlines that allow pets in the cabin. However, some airlines have a higher specified weight limit again.
The following airlines have a weight limit higher than 10kg:
- Breeze Airways – 25 lbs (11.3kg)
- Flair Airlines – 23 lbs (10.4kg)
- Hawaiian Airlines – 25 lbs (11.3kg)
- Spirit Airlines – 40 lbs (18kg)
- Viva Aerobus – 27 lbs (12.25kg)
Do Any North & South American Airlines Have a Lower Weight Limit?
There are also a few North & South American airlines that have a weight limit lower than 10kg. For starters, the following airlines have a weight limit of 9kg (20 lbs):
There are also a small number of airlines that have lower weight limits again, sometimes just on selected flights:
- Air Caraïbes – 5kg (11 lbs) on regional flights and 8kg (17.6 lbs) on trans-Atlantic flights
- Air Transat flights operated by Smartlynx Airlines – 8kg (17.6 lbs)
- InterCaribbean Airways – 15 lb (7kg)
- LATAM – 7kg (15 lbs)
Do Any North & South American Airlines Allow Seats to Be Booked for Pets?
Finally, do any airlines in North and South America allow you to book a seat for your pet? Only a handful declare that they allow this option, at least on their website…
The main airline that offers this option is JSX, which allows the adjacent seat to be purchased for flying medium-to-large dogs, although your dog still needs to lay on the floor during the flight. Neither dogs outside or inside carriers on JSX flights are allowed on seats.
Additionally, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue and most recently United Airlines state that you can buy an adjacent seat, so that you can transport two pet carriers on the flight, rather than the standard one carrier per passenger. In this case, you need to both pay for the seat and usually the relevant pet fee.
It’s possible some other airlines also allow this option – call and make enquiries. Check out my full guide to all airlines worldwide that offer the option to buy a seat for your pet dog.
And here’s the key details of the pet policies of all the major North & South American airlines…
Aerolíneas Argentinas (Argentina)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Aerolíneas Argentinas permits dogs and cats to fly in the cabin, as long as the combined weight of the pet and their carrier is no more than 9kg. This applies on both domestic and international flights, except for in Business class on selected aircraft.
Both soft and rigid carriers are accepted. The maximum dimensions of rigid carriers should be no more than 44 x 30 x 17cm, with a higher height of 20cm permitted for soft carriers.
Passengers can transport only a single dog or cat in the cabin. Additionally, a second pet can be transported in the hold. You should book at least 72 hours in advance via the WhatsApp number provided, or at the airport on the day of the flight, subject to availability.
Payment in advance is required. Pets flying between Argentina and the rest of South America attract a fee of $150 USD, while the fee is $200 USD to fly to the USA or $250 USD or €200 to fly to Europe.
Aerolíneas Argentinas also transports pets in the hold and as cargo. Note that selected breeds will only be transported as cargo.
See: https://www.aerolineas.com.ar/en-ar/useful-information/pets
Aeromexico (Mexico)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Aeromexico permits both dogs and cats to be flown in the cabin, on flights up to six hours in duration. The total number of pets permitted varies between flights, between 3 and 6, depending on the aircraft. Pets are only permitted in Premier or Premier Light class on selected aircraft.
The maximum weight of your pet and their carrier should be no more than 9kg, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20cm. Larger pets can also be checked into the hold, or flown with Aeromexico Cargo.
Fees range between 1350 and 1700 MXN for domestic flights, or $162 to $168 USD/EUR/GBP for international flights. Double check the documentation requirements based on your destination.
See: https://aeromexico.com/en-us/travel-information/pets-in-cabin
Air Canada (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Air Canada permits both cats and small dogs to fly in the cabin, as long as they are small enough to fit in a carrier underneath the seat in front of your, except for in Premium Economy cabins and to and from selected international destinations.
Soft-sided carriers should be no larger than 55 x 40 x 27cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 10.5 inches), while rigid carriers should be no higher than 23 cm (9 inches). However, there are some smaller size limits on selected aircraft, see the website. There is no maximum weight limit.
Only one pet is permitted per passenger, with the carrier taking the place of your carry-on bag. A fee of $50 CAD/USD applies for flights within Canada or between Canada and the US (except Hawaii). A fee of $100 CAD/USD applies on international flights.
See: https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/special-assistance/pets.html
Air Caraïbes (Guadeloupe)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Air Caraïbes permits pets to fly in the cabin. Dogs, cats, dwarf rabbits and guinea pigs are permitted, except for on code share flights with French bee, in which case only dogs and cats are allowed.
The maximum weight for a cat or dog, including its carrier, is 5kg on regional flights and 8kg on trans-Atlantic flights. They must be transported in an approved carrying case measuring no larger than 43 x 35 x 20cm.
The fee for a pet in the cabin is €10 for a short-haul flight and €75 for a trans-Atlantic flight. Larger pets can also fly in the hold as excess baggage, plus a freight service is available. Make sure you check the various regulations and documentation requirements for different destinations.
See: https://www.aircaraibes.com/en/animals
Air Transat (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The Canadian airline Air Transat permits pets to fly in the cabin, as well as in the checked baggage hold. Only domestic cats and dogs are accepted, including certified service and emotional support dogs.
If planning to fly internationally, check whether pets are accepted on flights to and from your destination, plus any additional requirements. Certain breeds to dogs are also not accepted, plus extra requirements apply for Brachycephalic dogs and cats.
No hard-sided carriers are permitted, only soft-sided carriers up to 43.2 x 25.5 x 24.1cm (17 x 10 x 9.5 inches). There is a weight limit of 10kg on flights operated by Air Transat, while a lower weight limit of 8kg applies on flights operated by Smartlynx Airlines.
Advanced bookings are required, at least 72 hours in advance. The availability of space can be checked online. Only one pet is permitted by passenger, in substitution of a carry-on bag. Pet fees start at $50 CAD for flights within Canada and the United States, and increase to $100 CAD for flights to and from Europe and South America. Higher fees apply if not paid in advance.
See: https://www.airtransat.com/en-CA/travel-information/special-services/pets-and-service-dogs
Alaska Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Small pets are allowed to fly in the cabin on Alaska Airlines flights, including dogs, cats, rabbits and household birds. Up to three carriers are permitted in First Class per flight, along with eight carriers in the main cabin.
Both soft and hard-sided carriers are accepted, as long as they fulfil the requirements detailed on the website. Soft-sided carriers can be up to 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches (43.2 x 27.9 x 24.1cm), while hard-sided carriers have a lower maximum height of 7.5 inches (19cm). There is no weight limit and up to two pets of the same species and similar size can travel per carrier.
Each passenger can travel with up to two pet carriers, as long as you also purchase the adjacent seat and pay both pet fees. A fee of $100 USD/CAD applies each way. Your carrier counts towards your carry-on allowance, replacing either your carry-on bag or personal item.
Additional requirements and restrictions apply for pets travelling to and from Hawaii and international destinations, including a limitation to only dogs and cats.
See: https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/policies/pets-traveling-with-pets/pets-in-cabin
Allegiant Air (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Small dogs and cats are welcome to travel in the cabin on flights with Allegiant Air within the 48 contiguous United States, but not to international destinations or US territories. One pet carrier is permitted per passenger.
Up to two pets can travel in a carrier, with a soft-sided carrier recommended. The carrier should not be larger than 19 x 16 x 9 inches (48.3 x 40.6 x 22.9cm) and needs to be fully closable to contain your pet. The carrier counts towards your carry-on limit.
A pet carry-on fee of $50 USD applies per segment per carrier. Note that no health certificate is required. Also, Allegiant Air does not transport pets in the hold, so larger pets can not be transported.
See: https://www.allegiantair.com/traveling-with-pets
American Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
American Airlines allows small cats and dogs to fly in the cabin as carry-on, that meet the size, age and destination requirements, in addition to flying animals through American Airlines Cargo.
For pets flying in the cabin, soft-sided carriers are recommended, with maximum dimensions of 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28cm). If using a hard-sided carrier, it should be no larger than 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22cm) on Mainline flights or 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20cm) on Regional flights on American Eagle.
There is no maximum weight limit of the carrier, except for when flying on First or Business class on an A321T flight, in which case a weight limit of 20 lbs (9.07kg) applies. On certain aircraft, pets are not permitted in First or Business class at all, due to lack of under-seat storage space.
Pets are permitted on most flights up to 12 hours in length, including flights within the 48 contiguous United States, plus flights between the US and Canada, Alaska, Mexico, Puerto Rico, St. Croix and St. Thomas.
A charge of $125 per kennel applies. Note that your carry-on pet replaces your carry-on item, so you can only take a personal item onto the flight in addition to your pet.
See: https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/special-assistance/pets.jsp
Avelo (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
A relatively new American airline that only launched in 2021, Avelo is a low-cost carrier headquartered in Houston. Avelo permits small cats, dogs, rabbits and birds to fly in the cabin, but not in cargo.
Pets need to fit in a carrier able to fit underneath the seat in front of you. For hard carriers, the carrier should be no larger than 14″ x 9″ x 9.5″ (35.6 x 22.9 x 24.1cm). However, there are no maximum dimensions for soft carriers – they just need to be able to fit. There is also no weight limit.
Up to eight pet carriers are permitted per flight, although at times the number needs to be reduced. A pet fee of $125 USD is charged. Bookings can be made either as part of your initial online booking or through the customer call center.
See: https://www.aveloair.com/help/traveling-with-pets
Avianca (Colombia)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Avianca permits the transportation of both cats and dogs older than four months in the cabin, in addition to service animals and emotional support animals (although the same weight limit applies as for pets, for emotional support animals to fly in the cabin).
Destinations where this doesn’t apply include flights to the Galapagos Islands, to the UK, and to or from Aruba and Curaçao, except for a permanent move.
Your pet and their carrier should weigh no more than 10kg combined. Only flexible containers are permitted that measure no larger than 55 x 35 x 25cm. Pets weighing up to 50kg can be transported in the hold.
The service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. You will be required to present your pet’s vaccination card, health certificate and other required paperwork, plus fill in the Avianca pet form. The costs of flights vary for different destinations.
See: https://www.avianca.com/en/information-and-help/pet-transport/, https://help.avianca.com/hc/en-us/articles/10723627941275-How-do-I-fly-with-my-pet-in-the-cabin-
Azul (Brazil)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The Brazilian airline Azul permits pets to fly in the cabin. One pet is permitted by passenger, with up to three pets in total on domestic flights and five pets on international flights.
As of the 1st February 2023, the maximum combined weight of the carrier and your pet is 10kg. For flexible bags (which should have internal metal rods to reinforce the structure), the maximum dimensions are 43 x 31.5 x 20cm. Rigid bags are only allowed on selected aircraft.
Fees for flights vary, between 250 BRL (or $50 USD) for domestic flights within Brazil, up to $150 USD for flights between Brazil and the USA or Europe in Economy, or $300 USD in Business class.
The website currently states that they will not fly dogs to the USA due to the current high rabies restrictions implemented by CDC (but they will fly dogs the opposite direction).
See: https://www.voeazul.com.br/en/for-your-trip/services/pet-inside-the-cabin, https://www.voeazul.com.br/en/for-your-trip/international-flights/pets
Boliviana de Aviación (Bolivia)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? No
Unfortunately, Boliviana de Aviación does not permit pets to fly in the cabin. Pets can only fly in the cargo hold. Bookings must be made at least 72 hours in advance and no brachycephalic pets will be transported in the cargo hold.
See: https://www.boa.bo/BoAWebSite/Home/About?item=equipaje_mascotas&primary=politica_equipaje
Breeze Airways (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Breeze is another new United States airline that launched in 2021. Up to five pets are permitted to travel on each flight, with only small domesticated cats and dogs permitted.
There is a weigh limit of 25 lbs (11.3kg), including the pet’s carrier. Only soft-sided carriers are allowed, that should be no larger than 17″ x 8″ x 13″ (43.2 x 20.3 x 33cm).
Pets are not allowed in the Breeze Ascent section, as they cannot fit underneath the seats. Your pet counts as your carry-on item, so it’s only permitted to bring onboard a personal item.
The pet fee charged is $75 USD. Pets can be added as part of your initial online booking, at the Trip Extras page, or later on the website.
See: https://www.flybreeze.com/support?a=Traveling-with-Pets-(Dogs-and-Cats)—id–qM_XO2oTRkaFa3JII8uRuQ
Canadian North (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Canandian North allows pets to fly in the cabin, as well as in the hold as checked baggage or cargo. Bookings need to be made at least 48 hours in advance by calling the call centre or emailing the airline.
The variety of small animals permitted in the cabin includes dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, hamsters and birds. Dogs and cats may travel in a soft-sided carrier, while other species need to travel in a rigid kennel.
The maximum dimensions of kennels are limited to 48 x 40 x 22cm (19 x 16 x 9 inches) on 737 aircraft, and a smaller 46 x 20 x 22cm (18 x 8 x 9 inches) on ATR aircraft. The maximum weight in either case is 10kg (20 lbs).
Only a single carrier with a single pet is permitted per passenger, which counts towards your carry-on baggage limits. A charge of $86.25 CAD inclusive of taxes applies each direction.
See: https://canadiannorth.com/travel-info/travelling-with-pets/
Caribbean Airlines (Trinidad and Tobago)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? No
Caribbean Airlines does not allow pets to fly in the cabin, only service animals and emotional support dogs on domestic flights only. Pets up to 32kg including their kennel can fly in the hold as excess baggage, while larger animals can be flown as cargo.
See: https://www.caribbean-airlines.com/#/requests-and-special-assistance/traveling-with-live-animals
Clic (Colombia)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The regional Colombia airline Clic (previously known as EASYFLY) permits pets to fly in the cabin on domestic flights. Only dogs, cats and roosters are permitted, with brachiocephalic and guard dog breeds not permitted.
The pet must fly in a soft carrier, no larger than 33 x 48 x 28cm. The weight limit is 10kg, for the pet and carrier combined.
Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance. A fee of COP $60,000 + VAT applies. Slightly larger pets (up to a weight limit of 23kg) can also fly in the hold.
See: https://clicair.co/transporte-de-mascotas (Spanish only)
Copa Airlines (Panama)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Copa Airlines allows small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin, in lieu of your carry-on luggage. Pets are allowed on all flights, except for weekend flights to and from Armenia, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa due to quarantine offices being closed. Pets are also excluded from connecting flights with other airlines.
A single pet is permitted per passenger, with up to three pets per flight and no pets allowed in Executive class. Bookings are recommended at least 48 hours in advance. The pet fee is $25 USD plus taxes for domestic flights and $125 USD plus taxes for international flights.
Your pet should be transported in a proper soft sided carrier, up to 28 x 45.7 x 28cm in dimensions. The maximum weight is 10kg. Larger pets can be transported by the Copa Pets cargo service.
Proof of your pet’s current vaccinations and a certificate of good health is required, at a minimum, plus the completion of the Terms and Conditions form for pets in cabin.
See: https://www.copaair.com/en-ca/travel-information/special-assistance/traveling-with-pets/
Cubana (Cuba)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? No
Cubana does not permit any pet animals to fly in the cabin of planes, except for potentially Yorkshire dogs – double check with the airline as the online information is contradictory. Note that of course guide dogs for the blind are permitted to fly in the cabin.
It is possible instead to fly pets in the hold or as cargo with Cubana.
See: https://www.cubana.cu/information/special_assistance/5 (Select English at the top)
Delta Air Lines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Delta Air Lines permits small dogs, cats and household birds to fly in the cabin in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Pets are not permitted in the cabin when flying to or from certain destinations, including flying to Hawaii.
The maximum size of the pet carrier depends on the aircraft, but Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” (45.7 x 27.9 x 27.9cm), as this fits most aircraft. The pet will count as your one carry-on item. In limited circumstances multiple pets can fly in one carrier, see the website.
There is a charge of $95 USD or CAD for pets flying within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. A rate of $200 USD or CAD or EUR is charged for international flights. The fee is paid at check-in.
A limited number of pets can fly in each cabin, with no pets permitted in cabins with lie flat beds, including international business class. Generally four pets are permitted in the main cabin on domestic and international flights.
See: https://www.delta.com/us/en/pet-travel/overview
Flair Airlines (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Flair Airlines happily welcomes small dogs and cats to fly with you in the cabin, however only on flights within Canada and the United States, not on flights to Mexico, Jamaica or Dominican Republic.
Pets need to fly in a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier. It should be no larger than 41 x 25 x 23cm (16 x 10 x 9 inches), with a maximum weight of 10.4kg (23 lbs), including your pet. It counts towards your standard carry-on allowance.
Only one pet is permitted per passenger, with a limit of six animals per flight. The pet fee must be purchased at least 48 hours in advance, and is usually $79 CAD plus taxes online, or $99 plus taxes at the airport.
See: https://flyflair.com/pet-in-cabin
Frontier Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Frontier Airlines allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds to fly in the cabin on domestic flights, but just dogs and cats on international flights (to or from the Dominican Republic and Mexico).
Your pet needs to fly in a travel container with maximum dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3cm), with no weight limit. In addition you can only take either a carry-on bag or personal item on the flight, although a fee applies for a carry-on bag.
Pets can be added during your initial booking or to an existing booking online. A one-way charge of $99 applies, which can be paid as part of the booking or during check-in.
See: https://www.flyfrontier.com/travel/travel-info/family-pets/?mobile=true, https://faq.flyfrontier.com/help/do-you-allow-pets-on-the-plane
GOL (Brazil)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Both cats and dogs that are at least 6 months old and weight no more than 10kg including their transport box are permitted on travel in the cabin on GOL flights. This includes both domestically and internationally, except for on flights to and from Orlando, including the Premium Economy cabin on international flights.
The maximum dimensions of the transport box should be no more than 32 x 43 x 24cm (or 22cm high for rigid containers). Pets can be booked online when purchasing your ticket or from the My Reservations area of the website. There is a charge of $70 USD on domestic flights and $170 USD on international flights per leg, when purchased in the USA.
Larger pets weighing up to 30kg can be transported in a dedicated pet cargo compartment, using the Dog&Cat + Space service, on most routes. Larger dogs and other species need to fly GOLLOG Animals.
See: https://www.voegol.com.br/en/gol-services/travelling-pets
Hawaiian Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Pet cats and dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin on most domestic Hawaiian Airlines flights. In addition to flights between the Hawaiian Islands, pets are also permitted on flights between North America and Hawaii, except for on flights to and from New York, Boston or Austin, and only in the main cabin, not in First Class.
Pets are not accepted on international flights to and from Hawaii, including Pago Pago in America Samoa. It is recommended to book your pet 48 hours in advance.
Pets must fly in approved soft-sided carriers, no larger than 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches (40.6 x 25.4 x 24.1cm). The maximum weight of the pet and carrier combined should be no more than 25lbs (11.3kg).
A pet health certificate is required, except for on Interisland flights. When flying to Hawaii, make sure you are aware of the pet import requirements to avoid quarantine for your pet.
A pet fee of $35 USD applies for Interisland flights, while a fee of $125 USD applies for flights between North America and Hawaii. Only one pet carrier is permitted per passenger, with only multiple pets allowed in a single carrier in limited circumstances.
Strollers may be checked at the check-in counter for a fee, or carried onboard as one of your carry-on items, provided it meets the size requirements.
See: https://hawaiianair.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/659
InterCaribbean Airways (Turks and Caicos Islands)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The low-cost InterCaribbean Airways permits cats and dogs to fly in the cabin subject to the operating aircraft. There is also the option for larger pets to travel in the hold.
Pets are required to fly in a soft-sided carrier bag, with a maximum weight of 15 lb (about 7kg) including both the pet and the carrier. No maximum size is specified.
Note in advance that there is an extensive list of breeds not permitted to enter the Turks & Caicos Islands, and you’ll also need to comply with any requirements at transit destinations.
See: https://www.intercaribbean.com/travel-information/pet-travel.html
JetBlue (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
JetBlue permits both small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin with you, except for when flying Mint, on most codeshare flights and selected international flights, including flights to Trinidad and Tobago and flights to or from London. Pets can be booked online or via the app, or by contacting JetBlue.
Your pet should be in an FAA-approved carrier that is no larger than 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches (43.18 x 31.75 x 21.59cm). The combined weight of your pet and their carrier should be no more than 20lbs (9kg). It’s possible to buy a carrier on the JetBlue website or at the JFK T5 ticket counter (pending availability).
Up to two pets are permitted per passenger, each in their own carrier. If you want to bring a second pet, you’ll need to buy an additional seat. A pet fee of $125 applies each way, per pet. Up to six pets are permitted per flight. Pet strollers can be checked at no charge, either at the ticket counter or the gate.
See: https://www.jetblue.com/traveling-together/traveling-with-pets, https://www.jetblue.com/help/traveling-with-pets
JetSMART (Chile)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The Chilean airline JetSMART permits pets to fly in the cabin. Only a single dog or cat is permitted per passenger, with no breed restrictions. Up to four pets are allowed on each flight.
Your pet should fly in a specially designed soft pet travel carrier, not larger than 38 x 35 x 22cm. No rigid carriers are allowed and the maximum combined weight of your pet and their carrier is 10kg.
Booking must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Prices start at 41,990 CLP for domestic flights in Chile, while the pet fee for international flights starts at $80 USD, if purchased at the time of purchasing your ticket.
See: https://jetsmart.com/us/en/PreguntasFrecuentes, https://jetsmart.com/us/en/opcionales
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
JSX (United States)
JSX describes itself as a “hop-on jet service” that operates between a short list of airports in the United States and Baja California Sur in Mexico. While not a major airline, I have included this airline thanks to their extra-pet-friendly policies on board.
In addition to transporting small dogs and cats in the cabin, they also make allowances for flying medium-to-large dogs in the cabin. Up to five pets are permitted per flight. There is also a policy for service animals, but no longer a special policy for emotional support animals.
Currently, small dogs and cats can fly free-of-charge. However, for new bookings from 10th July 2023, there will be a $100 charge for small pets each way. They need to fly in a pet carrier that fits underneath the seat in front of you. The maximum size of the carrier is 17 x 13 x 11 inches (43.2 x 33 x 27.9cm), with no weight limit. Only one carrier is permitted per passenger, replacing your personal item.
For medium-to-large dogs that are too large for a carrier, you are required to purchase an adjacent seat, by calling the call centre. You also need to fill out an Acceptance of Pet Liability Form and hand it in at check-in. During the flight, your dog will need to be leashed, lay on the floor directly in front of the seat and be well-behaved. A weight limit of 79 lbs (35.8kg) applies.
See: https://www.jsx.com/petpolicy
LATAM (Chile)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Pets are allowed to fly in the cabin on approved flights with LATAM, in both Economy and Premium Economy cabins, as well as in the hold and through LATAM Cargo.
Both dogs and cats are accepted in the cabin, in either a specialised travel bag or travel kennel. The bag or kennel must be no larger than 36cm x 33cm x 23cm (or 19cm high for kennels), with a maximum weight of 7kg including your pet. It must be large enough for your pet to stand up, move and turn around, without touching the walls or the roof, and be secure.
Note that pets are not permitted on selected flights, including to and from Galapagos, Australia, New Zealand, England and South Africa. Also, pets are not permitted on codeshare flights or flights connecting with other airlines. Only a single pet is permitted per passenger.
Fees vary, from 60000 COP ($15 USD) for domestic flights in Colombia, up to $200 USD for regional flights and $250 USD for long-haul flights.
See: https://www.latamairlines.com/us/en/experience/prepare-your-trip/pets-transportation?tab=2 and https://www.latamairlines.com/us/en/help-center/faq/pets/transport
Pacific Coastal Airlines (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Pacific Coastal Airlines permits small animals to fly in the cabin, as well as larger pets as checked baggage.
Your pet should weight no more than 10kg (22 lbs), including their kennel. The kennel should be soft-sided and airline-approved, with maximum dimensions of 43 x 25.4 x 25.4cm (17 x 10 x 10 inches). They must be able to stand naturally inside, without touching the roof.
Only a single animal is permitted per kennel, and a single kennel per passenger. The kennel will count towards your carry-on limit.
Ideally book your pet within 24 hours of your own ticket, as least 48 hours before flight departure. A pet fee of $52.50 CAD applies per direction per kennel.
See: https://www.pacificcoastal.com/pet-travel/
PAL Airlines (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Up until recently, PAL Airlines did not allow pets to fly in the cabin, only as checked baggage. However, as of 3 November 2023, they now allow small dogs and cats in the cabin, as well as service and specialty animals, except on the Air Borealis flights.
Small dogs and cats need to fly in an approved soft-sided carrier kennel or bag, that is no larger than 36.8 x 38.1 x 27.9 cm (14.5 x 15 x 11 inches). There is no weight limit.
Only one pet in the cabin is permitted per person, with your pet counting as your one carry-on item. A booking for your pet needs to be made by phone or email after your own reservation.
On domestic flights, the pet fee is $50 CAD plus applicable taxes. On international flights, the pet fee is $100 CAD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, pet strollers and pet car seats are accepted as checked baggage, with checked baggage rules applying.
See: https://www.palairlines.ca/en/fly-right/special-services/traveling-with-pets/
Porter Airlines (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Porter Airlines permits small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin, with no weight limit applying any longer. No pets are flown in the baggage hold.
Only soft-sided carriers are accepted, no larger than 55 x 40 x 27cm (21.5 x 15.5 x 10.5 inches). Only one pet is permitted per carrier, and a single carrier per passenger. In addition, you can only bring a personal item onboard.
The fee for flying a pet in the cabin varies between $50 and $57.50 ($50.00 CAD/USD plus applicable taxes) per direction. Bookings are required at least 24 hours in advance and ideally as early as possible, either as part of your booking or through the call centre. Only two pets are permitted on each flight.
See: https://www.flyporter.com/en-ca/travel-information/baggage/pets
SKY Airline (Chile)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Both dogs and cats can fly with you in the cabin on SKY Airline flights, except for on flights to the United States, if there is availability. Each passenger can travel with a single pet, and there is a maximum of four pets per flight.
The maximum weight of the pet and kennel combined should be no more than 10kg. The kennel must be made of soft material, plus have a water proof floor and a zipper, with backpacks not permitted. Its maximum dimensions should be no more than 18cm wide x 37cm deep x 24cm high.
Bookings for pets must be made at least 48 hours in advance, and you should bring along your pet’s vaccination record and a health certificate issued by a veterinarian, plus any other requirements. An additional Letter of Release of Liability is required for short-nosed pets.
The charge to fly with a pet in the cabin is $76 USD if booked at the time of initial reservation, or $90 USD if booked later.
See: https://www.skyairline.com/english/services/faq/?c=33
Southwest Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated cats and dogs to fly in the cabin on domestic flights, except for on flights to and from Hawaii. Southwest Airline does not transport larger pets as cargo.
Passengers are permitted only one carrier, but up to two of the same species of a small cat or dog are permitted per carrier. Generally up to six carriers are permitted per flight, but this may be reduced on some flights.
The pet carrier should have maximum dimensions of 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches (47 x 34 x 24cm), with the airline selling their own branded carrier, suitable for pets up to 15lbs. There is no maximum weight for the pet carrier. Pet owners can also check a pet stroller or crate for free.
A pet fare of $125 USD applies each direction per pet carrier, with a reduced fee of $35 USD within the Hawaiian Islands. Note that a pet carrier counts as either your carry-on or personal item in the cabin.
See: https://www.southwest.com/help/booking/pet-policy
Spirit Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Spirit Airlines allows small domesticated pets to travel in the cabin, including on flights to Puerto Rico and St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, but not on international flights.
Both cats and dogs are allowed, as well as small household birds and small domestic rabbits, except for on the flights to and from Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands.
Pets must travel in an approved soft carrier no larger than 18 x 14 x 9 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 22.9cm). Only one carrier is permitted per passenger, but two pets are allowed inside. The maximum weight of your pets and their carrier must be no more than 40 pounds (18kg).
Advanced booking is recommended, but not essential. Note that your pet will count as one-plus-one carry-on luggage. A health certificate is not required except for on flights to the US Virgin Islands. A charge of $125 applies each way, plus an additional $125 fee for each stopover of more than four hours within the US.
See: https://customersupport.spirit.com/en-us/category/article/KA-01181
Sun Country Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The ultra-low-cost Sun Country Airlines allows small cats and dogs to fly on flights operating within the 48 continuous United States. Pets are not permitted on flights to and from Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands.
Your pet must travel in an approved carrier, either soft or hard, that is no larger than 16 x 10 x 8 inches (40.6 x 25.4 x 20.3cm) and can fit under the seat in front of you. There is no weight limit.
A fee of $75 USD is charged for advance bookings, or $100 for walk-up requests, subject to availability. Only six pets are permitted on each flight, with a limit of one pet per passenger.
See: https://suncountry.com/help-center/traveling-with-kids-or-pets#label-question-allowed
Sunwing (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? No
The low-cost Canadian airline does not permit pets to fly on its aircraft, including in the cabin. Only service and emotional support dogs can be accommodated.
See: https://www.sunwing.ca/en/faqs/special-assistance/#are-pets-allowed-on-my-flight
United Airlines (United States)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
United Airlines accepts cats and dogs to fly in soft and hard sided carriers in the cabin, with a limit of one pet per carrier. Note that certain destinations are excluded, including Hawaii.
Your pet needs to comfortably fit inside their carrier, with no breed or weight restrictions. The maximum dimensions of soft-sided carriers is 18 x 11 x 11 inches (45 x 27 x 27cm) (but only 10 inches or 25cm on Boeing 737 MAX 9 flights). For hard-sided carriers the maximum size is 17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches (44 x 30 x 19cm) – note that significantly smaller height allowance.
Pets can be added to domestic bookings when booking online, or later through the My Trips page on the website, but not the App. A phone call is required for international bookings. Generally only four or six pets are permitted in each cabin, or two in premium cabins.
A charge of $125 applies each way, with an additional fee of $125 for layovers over 4 hours for domestic flights and 24 hours for international flights.
See: https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/travel/traveling-with-pets.html
Viva Aerobus (Mexico)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Viva Aerobus has previously claimed that they are the airline with “the most space to transport pets in Mexico”. Both cats and dogs are permitted on flights to all destinations, with up to five pets in the cabin and six in the hold. Note though that only one pet is permitted per passenger.
For pets travelling in the cabin, the maximum weight of both your pet and carrier should be no more than 27 lbs (12.25kg). The carrier can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 35.5 x 20cm), either rigid or semi-rigid.
Make sure you check the documentation requirements, including a health certificate, vaccination card, proof of deworming and letter of responsibility, plus a Certificado Zoosanitario issued by Sagarpa for international flights.
See: https://www.vivaaerobus.com/en-us/info/get-ready-to-fly/travel-with-pets
Volaris (Mexico)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
The low-cost Mexican airline Volaris permits pets to travel in the cabin, both cats and dogs, except for on flights operated by Frontier. Pets can be added during the online booking process, or later on through the call center or at the airport.
Previously, Volaris had a 10kg weight restriction for pets to fly in the cabin, but this has been removed. Now they just need to be able to move within the carrier they fly in. It can be either a fabric, sturdy plastic or bubble backpack carrier, no larger than 44 x 30 x 19cm.
The fee for a pet in the cabin is up to 1650 MXN during the low season or 1900 MXN during the high season. Dogs up to 45kg including their crate can be flown in the hold.
See: https://cms.volaris.com/en/travel-info/optional-services/fly-with-your-pet/
WestJet (Canada)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Pets are welcome guests on WestJet flights, both in the cabin, plus as checked baggage or as cargo. Cats, dogs, rabbits and birds are accepted in the cabin, subject to entrance requirements, except for on flights to or from Barbados, Hawaii, Ireland (Dublin), Jamaica or the United Kingdom.
Only one pet is accepted per guest and kennel, which should be soft-sided and no larger than 41 x 25.4 x 21.5cm (16 x 10 x 8.5 inches). The available size beneath the seat varies by aircraft. Your pet’s kennel replaces your personal item or carry-on bag.
A fee of $50-59 CAD/USD applies for pets flying in the cabin on flights within Canada, or between Canada and the United States. A fee of $100-118 CAD/USD applies on flights to all other destinations.
Pets can only be added to your booking by calling the contact centre, ideally as least 48 hours in advance. It’s strongly recommended that entrance requirements are checked before travelling in or out of any province, territory or across borders.
See: https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/pets
Wingo (Colombia)
Pets Allowed in the Cabin? Yes
Wingo permits pets, both cats and dogs, to fly in the cabin on domestic flights within Colombia and selected international flights. Pets are not permitted on flights to and from Aruba, Curaçao and Havana.
One pet is permitted per passenger, with up to six pets permitted on each flight. Your pet must fly in a non-rigid travel carrier, with maximum dimensions of 33 x 43 x 25cm. The weight limit of the pet and carrier combined is 10kg.
Pets can be booked onto flights up to 3 hours before departure, but higher prices generally apply if the booking is not made when you book your own tickets.
See: https://www.wingo.com/en/help-center/travel-with-pets
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Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.