Current Airline Policies for Dogs in the Cabin
The short answer is no - you generally cannot buy a separate seat for your dog on most airlines. Instead, airlines offer specific options for pet travel:
- In-cabin pets must remain in airline-approved carriers under the seat
- Service dogs have special accommodations but don't get their own seats
- Larger dogs typically must travel as checked baggage or cargo
In-Cabin Pet Travel Requirements
When flying with a pet in the cabin, your dog must:
- Stay in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat
- Count as one of your carry-on items
- Meet size and weight restrictions specific to each airline
- Have current vaccination records
- Be accompanied by you throughout the journey
Service Dogs vs. Regular Pets: Different Rules Apply
Service dogs have distinct privileges compared to regular pets:
- They can remain unconfined in the cabin
- Must stay at their handler's feet or on their lap if small
- Cannot occupy a separate seat or block aisles
- Must be properly trained and well-behaved
Changes in Emotional Support Animal Policies
Since 2021, most U.S. airlines no longer recognize emotional support animals (ESAs) as service animals. ESAs must now follow standard pet policies, which means:
- They must travel in carriers under the seat
- Regular pet fees apply
- They cannot sit in passenger seats
- Size restrictions for in-cabin carriers apply
Alternative Options for Flying with Your Dog
If your dog is too large for in-cabin travel, consider these alternatives:
- Checked pet service (in a pressurized cargo hold)
- Pet-specific airlines (limited availability)
- Ground transportation alternatives
- Splitting up travel into shorter segments
Planning Your Flight with a Dog
To ensure a successful trip:
- Contact the airline directly about current pet policies
- Book well in advance as pet spots are limited
- Get your dog's health certificates and required documentation
- Purchase an airline-approved carrier if flying in-cabin
- Consider your dog's temperament and ability to handle air travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a separate plane seat for my dog to sit during the flight?
No, most airlines do not allow you to purchase a separate seat for your dog. Dogs must either travel in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you or in the cargo hold if they're too large for in-cabin travel.
What are the airline rules for flying with a service dog in the cabin?
Service dogs can travel in the cabin free of charge and without a carrier, but they must remain on the floor at their handler's feet or on their lap if small enough. They cannot occupy a separate seat or block aisles.
Are emotional support animals allowed to occupy a passenger seat on U.S. flights?
No, emotional support animals are no longer given special privileges on U.S. flights. They must follow standard pet policies, which means staying in a carrier under the seat and paying applicable pet fees.
How must pet dogs travel if they are not service or emotional support animals?
Regular pet dogs must either travel in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you (for small dogs) or in the cargo hold (for larger dogs).
What documentation do I need to fly with my service dog or emotional support animal?
Service dogs require DOT service animal forms attesting to their training, health, and behavior. For emotional support animals, which are now treated as regular pets, you'll need to follow standard pet documentation requirements, including proof of vaccinations and health certificates.
While you can't buy your dog their own seat, there are still many ways to travel safely with your furry friend. The key is to plan ahead, understand airline policies, and choose the option that best suits both you and your pet's needs.
