American Airlines·oneworld
American Pet Policy — Cabin, Cargo & Service Animals
American Pet Policy — Cabin, Cargo & Service Animals — Summary
Whether American allows pets in the cabin, cargo options, fees, service animal rules and the destination import requirements that catch owners out.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Pets in the cabin: Cats and dogs travel in-cabin in a carrier stowed under the seat, on flights up to a published maximum duration.
- Pets in the hold or cargo: Checked pet travel is available on a limited basis, primarily for active-duty US military and State Department personnel on orders..
- Pet fees: A per-direction in-cabin pet fee applies, paid at check-in..
- Service animals: Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form completed in advance.
Pets in the cabin
Cats and dogs travel in-cabin in a carrier stowed under the seat, on flights up to a published maximum duration. The carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item.
Pets in the hold or cargo
Checked pet travel is available on a limited basis, primarily for active-duty US military and State Department personnel on orders.
Pet fees
A per-direction in-cabin pet fee applies, paid at check-in.
Service animals
Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form completed in advance. Emotional support animals are not accepted.
Restrictions and destination rules
Pets are not accepted in premium lie-flat cabins on many aircraft, and temperature and breed embargoes apply. Transatlantic and transpacific in-cabin pet travel is generally not permitted.
American flying with pets — common questions
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on American?
Cats and dogs travel in-cabin in a carrier stowed under the seat, on flights up to a published maximum duration. The carrier counts as your carry-on or personal item. A per-direction in-cabin pet fee applies, paid at check-in.
Does American accept service animals?
Trained service dogs travel free with the DOT form completed in advance. Emotional support animals are not accepted.
What are the American pet restrictions?
Pets are not accepted in premium lie-flat cabins on many aircraft, and temperature and breed embargoes apply. Transatlantic and transpacific in-cabin pet travel is generally not permitted.
More American help
Booking American? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.