Top 10 Airlines For Travelers With Dogs
You have probably worried about how your pup will handle the flight as much as you’ve thought about your own seat. Airlines approach pet travel in very different ways, and those differences can affect everything from check-in to landing. Some airlines manage this better than others, so to make your planning easier, here are 10 airlines that stand out for being accommodating of pups on board.
Alaska Airlines
Having flown more than 730,000 pets in the last five years, Alaska Airlines continues to lead with a strong pet safety record. Small dogs who are at least eight weeks old fly in-cabin, while larger ones travel in climate-controlled cargo. Frequent pet flyers appreciate that the costs remain accessible for most routes.
JSX
Have you ever wished your medium-sized dog could sit beside you mid-flight? JSX makes that happen. By allowing pups up to 79 pounds to fly in-cabin without a crate, the airline removes typical barriers to travel. Fewer crowds and stress-free boarding make it a favorite among urban pet travelers.
JetBlue
Most airlines see pet travel as a fee, but JetBlue treats it like an extension of its loyalty program. JetPaws gives you 300 TrueBlue points per flight when a dog under 20 pounds flies in-cabin. With a branded tag and practical tips included, the program feels unusually thoughtful.
Lufthansa
Layovers can be taxing, but Lufthansa’s Animal Lounge offers direct care from trained staff and climate-controlled cargo conditions that prioritize animal comfort. While only small dogs are allowed in-cabin, strict international health protocols ensure that the journey is safer for everyone onboard.
American Airlines
Twelve hours is the maximum flight duration for in-cabin dogs with American Airlines. Its expansive network pairs with well-documented pet rules, attracting owners looking for consistency and wide destination access. Specialized cargo services also accommodate larger breeds and international pet transport needs.
Delta Air Lines
If you’re booking a flight and want fewer surprises, Delta helps by offering clear Pet Travel Guides online. Smaller dogs can ride beside you on select routes if they meet the requirements, but larger animals are not allowed as per new rules. The owner must take care of any/all destination-based paperwork.
Air Canada
While many airlines leave pet owners to untangle requirements, Air Canada simplifies them. Larger breeds go in cargo, while dogs weighing under 22 pounds, including the carrier, are cleared for in-cabin travel. With step-by-step pet travel instructions, the airline becomes a practical choice for cross-border flyers.
French Bee
For those heading to or from France, French Bee strikes a balance between pet comfort and cost. Dogs can stay in the cabin if the carrier meets size rules and fits beneath the seat. Owners often view the airline as one of the most affordable transatlantic choices available.
Tradewind Aviation
If privacy and quiet matter when you travel with a pup, Tradewind Aviation stands out. Unlike most carriers, their U.S. and Caribbean charters welcome dogs of all sizes right in the cabin—no crates, no cargo hold. The setup makes air travel mentally peaceful for all.
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways provides pet travel options, including in-cabin for small dogs and cargo for larger breeds. Their Doha hub even features animal care facilities for layovers. Strict documentation and crate requirements apply, ensuring safety and compliance during international flights.
