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Traveling with pets from Austin doesn’t have to be a hassle if you pick the right airline. Several carriers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport let you bring your dog or cat in the cabin or as checked baggage.
Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines are solid picks for pet-friendly flights from Austin. They’ve got straightforward policies and fees that won’t make you do a double-take.
Every airline has its own rules about pet size, carrier specs, and what they’ll charge you. Alaska charges about $100 each way for in-cabin pets, while United’s closer to $150.
You’ll want to double-check each airline’s website before you book. Carrier size and health paperwork can trip you up if you’re not prepared.
Proper prep goes a long way for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Key Takeways
- Pet fees and cabin policies aren’t the same across airlines in Austin.
- Understanding the rules keeps travel headaches to a minimum.
- Planning ahead makes the trip smoother for your pet.
Top Airlines Offering Pet-Friendly Flights from Austin, Texas
Flying with pets from Austin? You’ve got a few good options for airlines that allow pets in the cabin or as checked baggage. Some really focus on pet comfort and have clear policies, while others mostly serve local routes or require connections.
That can make a difference in your pet’s experience.
Major Airlines with Pet Policies
Delta Air Lines is a strong choice if you want a pet-friendly carrier. They usually have lower fees and allow small dogs and cats in the cabin.
Alaska Airlines is also a standout. They charge about $100 each way and even allow rabbits and birds, which is rare.
American Airlines and Southwest both allow pets, but Southwest seems to have fewer hassles when flying with dogs. Each airline has its own size and breed restrictions, so you’ll want to check before you book.
Pet fees usually land somewhere between $75 and $125 per flight. Most airlines require advance booking for pets since there’s limited space.
You’ll need to keep your pet in a carrier under the seat for the whole flight.
Regional Airlines Serving Austin
Some smaller or regional airlines fly out of Austin and may allow pets, but their policies can be a bit murky.
Surf Air, for example, allows one pet per flight with registration and pretty strict rules. These smaller airlines handle fewer passengers, which can mean a calmer vibe for your pet, but there are fewer flights to choose from.
Expect fewer pet amenities and sometimes steeper fees, since less frequent routes often come with more restrictions on size and transport.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights for Pets
Direct flights from Austin are usually best for pets. Less time in transit means less stress and a lower chance of something going wrong with your pet’s carrier.
Connecting flights might save you a little cash, but they involve more handling and waiting around. Each layover can really stress out a pet—lots of noise and new smells.
If your pet is in the cabin, direct flights are just easier. For checked pets, always ask about temperature controls during layovers, especially in Austin’s hot months.
Understanding Airline Pet Policies and Requirements
There’s a bunch of rules around how and where your pet can travel. These cover things like in-cabin travel, checked baggage, and which animals are actually allowed.
Knowing the details helps you dodge surprises and keeps your pet safe.
In-Cabin Pet Travel Guidelines
Most airlines let small dogs and cats fly in the cabin. There’s usually a fee around $125 one-way for each pet.
You’ll need an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. It should be secure and ventilated—your pet will be spending the whole flight in there.
United lets you bring up to two pets per passenger, but you’ll need to buy a seat for each if they won’t share a carrier. Most airlines cap the weight for in-cabin pets at around 15-20 pounds, including the carrier.
Always check the airline’s size and health requirements before booking. Some won’t allow pets in certain cabins or during extreme weather.
Checked Baggage Pet Transport
If your pet’s too big for the cabin, they might have to travel as checked baggage or cargo. That means they’ll be in the plane’s cargo hold.
You’ll need a tough, IATA-approved pet crate that meets airline standards. Fees for checked pets are usually higher than in-cabin.
Make sure the crate has food, water, and plenty of ventilation. Slap a label with your contact info on the crate.
Not every airline offers checked pet transport on all flights, and some won’t do it during hot weather. It’s best to confirm with the airline way ahead of time and get your pet used to the crate before you go.
Species and Breed Restrictions
Most airlines stick to domestic dogs and cats. Some restrict breeds, especially brachycephalic dogs like pugs and bulldogs, since they have breathing issues.
Exotic pets, birds, or reptiles? The rules get stricter, and you may need permits or cargo services.
Always check the airline’s list of allowed species and banned breeds. They’re serious about safety and will turn you away if your pet’s on the restricted list.
Preparing for Pet Air Travel from Austin
Getting your pet ready for air travel from Austin takes a few important steps. You’ll need to make the right reservations, gather health documents, and handle customs if you’re heading abroad.
Booking Procedures for Pet Reservations
Book early—airlines only allow a set number of pets per flight. Each airline has its own quirks.
United lets you bring two pets per person, but if both are in the cabin, you’ll need to buy an extra seat. Double-check if your pet can fly in the cabin or if they’ll have to go as cargo.
You’ll probably need to give the pet’s weight and carrier size when booking. It’s best to reserve directly with the airline, since online booking systems don’t always handle pets well.
Get all the rules and fees nailed down at booking. Keep your confirmation details handy for check-in.
Health Certificates and Documentation
Most airlines ask for a health certificate dated within 10 days of the flight. It needs to show your pet’s healthy and good to go.
This is extra important for pets traveling as cargo. Your vet should update all vaccinations, especially rabies.
Some airlines or countries might want extra paperwork, like a pet passport or proof your pet’s weaned if they’re young. Always carry multiple copies of all documents.
Check the airline’s official pet policy for the latest requirements—rules can change, and it’s better to be over-prepared than scrambling at the airport.
Customs Clearance for International Destinations
If you’re heading outside the U.S. with your pet, you’ll have to deal with customs clearance. Every country seems to have its own set of rules about vaccines, quarantine, and permits.
Start by digging into your destination’s pet regulations way before your trip. There’s a good chance you’ll need to fill out forms, maybe get your pet microchipped, or even arrange for some specific blood tests.
When you get to customs, expect the officials to go over your paperwork with a fine-tooth comb. If something’s missing, you might face delays, fees, or—worst case—your pet could be stuck in quarantine.
Keep all those important documents handy. And don’t forget to double-check your airline’s rules for bringing pets abroad.