Which Airlines Still Accept Pets in Cargo
As of the latest public guidance, several major U.S. and international carriers continue to accept pets in cargo, though options have narrowed after several carriers stopped in-cabin pet transport or tightened policies. American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines, and Lufthansa Cargo remain among the most commonly cited airlines that allow pets in cargo for checked shipment under live animal programs Forbes. Many of these programs require advance reservations, health certificates, and compliance with IATA Live Animals Regulations, and availability can vary by route, season, and aircraft type.
Delta Cargo and United Cargo publish detailed live animal pages that list accepted species, container requirements, and seasonal restrictions, while Alaska Airlines Cargo and Lufthansa Cargo provide similar guidance for shippers looking to transport dogs and cats as checked baggage or cargo Alaska Airlines. Airlines such as American Airlines Cargo and Lufthansa Cargo highlight that pets must travel in IATA-compliant kennels, with documentation confirming age, health, and vaccination status, and some routes may require an acclimation certificate depending on the temperature at origin or destination.
Cargo Pet Fees, Rules, and Container Requirements
Fees for pets in cargo typically range from about 200 to over 1,000 USD per kennel each way on U.S. carriers, with international routes often costing more due to handling, documentation, and ground service charges. Most airlines charge a non-refundable processing fee plus a cargo rate based on weight and dimensional volume, and some carriers apply a seasonal surcharge or impose temperature embargoes during extreme heat or cold SEC. Shippers should also expect costs for IATA kennels, veterinary exams, health certificates, and any required export or import permits, which can add several hundred dollars to the total trip cost.
IATA and individual airlines require hard-sided, ventilated kennels that meet size, locking, and labeling standards, with absorbent bedding and food/water containers attached inside. Containers must allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally, and they must be clearly marked with live animal stickers, the shipper’s contact details, and orientation arrows Forbes. Airlines often publish detailed container specifications and may refuse shipment if the kennel does not comply, so confirming exact dimensions and construction rules with the carrier before booking is essential.
How to Book and Prepare a Pet for Cargo Travel
Booking typically starts on the airline’s cargo or reservations page, where you select a live animal shipment option, provide pet details, and choose a container that meets the airline’s requirements. Most carriers require the reservation to be made at least 24 to 48 hours before departure, and some limit the number of pets per flight, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons Delta Air Lines. You will usually need to submit a recent health certificate, vaccination records, and any destination-country import permits, and the pet must be dropped off at a designated cargo or animal-handling facility on the day of travel.
Preparation steps include confirming that the destination country allows the species and breed, checking for quarantine rules, and ensuring the kennel complies with both the airline’s and the country’s import standards. Many airlines recommend a pre-flight vet visit within a specific timeframe, water-fasting guidelines, and labeling the kennel with food and water instructions, as well as contact information for the owner and attending veterinarian Lufthansa Cargo. On the day of travel, arrive early, verify that all documents are complete, and confirm with the agent that the