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Flying with pets out of Fort Lauderdale is rarely simple. But a handful of airlines—Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, and United—do make it a bit less stressful.
These airlines actually lay out their pet policies pretty clearly. You’ll find affordable fees and rules that don’t require a law degree to decipher, especially for small dogs and cats riding in the cabin.
These carriers let you keep your pet under the seat in an approved carrier. The fees usually run between $100 and $150 each way.
It’s way less stressful when you know the costs and requirements before you book. That way, you can focus on prepping your pet, not scrambling at the last minute.
Key Takeways
- You can bring small pets in the cabin on several airlines from Fort Lauderdale.
- Fees for pets typically range from $100 to $150 per flight.
- Airlines require pets to travel in approved carriers that fit under the seat.
Top Airlines Offering Pet-Friendly Flights from Fort Lauderdale
At Fort Lauderdale, you’ve got a few airlines that let pets fly in the cabin or, sometimes, as checked baggage. The details—fees, size limits, and which animals are allowed—definitely change from airline to airline.
It’s worth reading the fine print before you book. Nobody wants a surprise at the airport.
Airline Pet Policies Comparison
Alaska Airlines is a standout for pet travel. They allow small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds in the cabin for $100 each way.
Frontier Airlines also lets you bring pets in the cabin, but they’re a bit more restrictive about which species and carrier sizes they’ll allow. Some airlines, like American, Delta, and United, have stopped flying pets as cargo from Fort Lauderdale, but you might still get a small pet in the cabin on certain flights.
There are usually weight limits—20 pounds is a common cutoff for in-cabin pets. You’ll need to reserve your pet’s spot in advance, and fees usually fall between $100 and $125 per flight.
If your pet is larger, you’ll have to check if the airline still offers checked baggage options. It’s not as common as it used to be.
| Airline | Pet in Cabin | Pet as Checked Baggage | Fee Approx. | Pets Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Yes | No | $100 | Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds |
| Frontier Airlines | Yes | Limited | $75-100 | Dogs, cats |
| American | Limited | No | Varies | Small dogs only in cabin |
| Delta | Limited | No | Varies | Small dogs only in cabin |
Most Popular Air Carriers for Traveling with Pets
Alaska Airlines is a favorite among pet owners leaving Fort Lauderdale. Their customer service seems genuinely helpful, and the pet policies are pretty straightforward.
Frontier Airlines is catching on, mostly because of their lower fees and willingness to let pets ride in the cabin. Their rules aren’t as flexible for bigger animals, though.
Southwest and JetBlue sometimes allow small pets in the cabin, but don’t expect checked pet services. American and United have made it harder to fly pets as cargo or checked baggage these days.
It’s smart to think about your pet’s size, breed, and where you’re headed before picking an airline. Booking early is a must—there’s only so much space for pets on each flight.
Direct and Connecting Flight Options for Pets
Direct flights from Fort Lauderdale can make things easier for your pet. Alaska and Frontier offer some direct routes to major cities, which cuts down on transfer hassles.
If you have to book a connecting flight, things get a bit more complicated. Layovers mean more handling and waiting, which isn’t always great for animals.
Try to pick flights with short layovers and airlines that don’t leave pet owners hanging when there’s an issue. Double-check that both legs of your trip allow pets under the same rules.
Direct flights from Fort Lauderdale aren’t everywhere, but they do exist on pet-friendly airlines. Just make sure connecting flights won’t throw you any curveballs.
Booking and Preparing Your Pet’s Reservation
When flying with a pet from Fort Lauderdale, booking early is your best bet. Most airlines cap the number of pets per flight, so waiting could mean missing out.
How to Make Pet Reservations with Airlines
Try to reserve your pet’s spot at least a day before your trip. Honestly, the earlier the better.
Most airlines let you add a pet during the booking process—look for “Extras” or “Special Requests.” If you’ve got more than one pet, check the airline’s policy; usually, two’s the max per traveler.
You’ll also need a health certificate from your vet, typically dated within 10 days of your flight. It’s a standard rule to show your pet’s fit to fly.
Payment Procedures and Additional Fees for Pet Travel
Expect to pay between $100 and $125 for your pet’s ticket, each way. You’ll usually pay this fee when you book, but some airlines make you pay at the airport instead.
These fees aren’t refundable, so be sure before you book. Spirit and JetBlue list their charges pretty clearly during the reservation process.
Make sure you know what the fee covers—sometimes it’s just for in-cabin pets, and cargo could cost extra. Keep your payment confirmation handy for check-in.
Checked Baggage and In-Cabin Pet Rules
If you’re flying out of Fort Lauderdale with a pet, you’ve got to pay attention to the rules for in-cabin and checked pets. Each airline has its own requirements for size, weight, and carrier type.
In-Cabin Pet Requirements
Most airlines let small dogs and cats ride in the cabin as long as they’re in a carrier that fits under the seat. Carrier size usually can’t be bigger than about 19 x 13 x 9 inches.
The fee is typically around $125 each way. You might be able to bring two pets, but some airlines make you buy an extra seat if you want them both next to you.
Don’t forget to check the rules about your pet’s age, vaccinations, and health certificates. Some airlines are stricter than others.
Checked and Cargo Pet Policies
If your pet’s too big for the cabin, you’ll have to go the checked baggage or cargo route. Most airlines want you to drop your pet off at the ticket counter.
You’ll need a sturdy, well-ventilated kennel that’s airline-approved. Each airline sets its own weight and size limits for checked pets.
Booking ahead is a must—spots fill up fast. Fees and handling can vary, so it’s worth double-checking the rules for your airline, your route, and even the weather at your destination.