If you’re planning to fly with your pet from Lansing, Michigan, finding an airline that treats animals well matters a lot. Alaska Airlines and Delta stand out as top picks for pet travel, offering reliable and genuinely pet-friendly service.
These airlines have straightforward rules and helpful policies, which can make things a lot easier for you and your furry companion.
Flying out of Lansing, you want a safe, comfortable experience for your animal. Alaska and Delta, both serving or connecting through the Lansing area, have built solid reputations for how they handle pets in the cabin and as cargo.
Knowing which airlines actually care about animals can take a bit of the worry out of your trip.
Before you book, think about your pet’s size, health, and how long you’ll be flying. Picking the right airline and understanding their pet rules can mean the difference between a peaceful flight and a stressful one.
Key Takeways
- Choose airlines with clear pet policies and a good track record for animal care.
- Factor in your pet’s needs and the flight duration before booking.
- A little preparation goes a long way for a smoother trip with your pet.
Top Airlines for Traveling with Pets from Lansing
When you’re flying pets from Lansing, it helps to know how airlines handle their rules, fees, and options. Some carriers spell things out pretty clearly and offer a few ways to get your pet onboard—whether that’s in the cabin or as checked baggage.
American Airlines Pet Policies
American Airlines lets small pets fly in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat. The fee is usually about $125 each way.
You can also send pets as cargo on some flights, but this depends on where you’re headed and the plane type.
Book your pet’s spot early—there’s only so much space in the cabin. Pets have to be at least eight weeks old and up to date on shots.
Certain breeds might not be allowed, especially if they have health risks. Check the size rules, too: carriers can’t be bigger than 19″ x 13″ x 9″.
If your pet doesn’t fit those rules, you’ll need to look at checked baggage or cargo options.
United Airlines Pet Travel Options
United Airlines has three ways for pets to travel: in-cabin, as checked baggage (on select flights), or as cargo. For in-cabin, your pet needs to fit in a soft-sided carrier under the seat.
There’s a $125 fee each way. United’s PetSafe program is for pets traveling as cargo—good for bigger animals or those not allowed in the cabin.
The PetSafe service includes climate control and handlers who know what they’re doing. You can bring dogs, cats, and even household birds.
All pets need a health certificate from within 10 days of travel. United restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds because of flight safety risks.
Avelo Airlines Animal Accommodation
Avelo Airlines, which serves some smaller markets like Lansing, keeps its pet policy simple. Pets can only travel in the cabin with you.
They accept dogs and cats in soft-sided carriers. The carrier size limit is smaller than some other airlines, so double-check before you go.
Pets have to stay in their carrier under the seat for the whole flight. The fee is usually lower than big carriers, around $75 each way.
Avelo doesn’t offer checked baggage or cargo for pets. If your pet’s too big for the cabin, you’ll need a different airline.
They don’t allow many pets per flight, so booking early is smart if you want to snag a spot.
Choosing the Right Flight for Your Pet
Flying with your pet from Lansing, your choice between nonstop and direct flights can really affect your pet’s comfort. Routing through busy hubs like Chicago adds a few more things to think about, like connection times and how each airline handles pet transfers.
Nonstop vs. Direct Flights with Pets
Nonstop flights get you and your pet straight to your destination, no stops. Less time in transit means less stress for your animal.
If you can find a nonstop from Lansing, that’s usually the way to go. Direct flights might stop but don’t require you to change planes.
That can mean longer waits on the runway or at stops, which isn’t always ideal for pets. Double-check if the airline allows pets to stay in the cabin or if you’d have to use checked baggage or cargo during layovers.
Connecting Through Major Hubs Like Chicago
Chicago O’Hare is a big hub and a common connection point from Lansing. If you have to connect there, plan for extra time between flights.
Big airports are loud, busy, and can be overwhelming for animals. Make sure your airline has clear pet transfer rules at Chicago.
Some are better than others at handling pets between flights. If your pet’s flying as cargo, confirm how they’ll be moved between planes.
Also, find out if you can check on your pet during a long layover or if there are pet relief areas available.
Essential Tips for Pet Air Travel
Traveling with your pet takes some planning. You’ll need the right kennel to meet airline rules and some tricks to keep your pet comfortable along the way.
Kennel and Carrier Requirements
Your pet’s kennel has to follow the airline’s standards. It should be sturdy, well-ventilated, and big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down.
Most airlines want plastic or metal kennels with secure latches. Label your carrier with your name, phone number, and your pet’s name.
If someone else will handle your animal, include feeding and care instructions. Soft-sided carriers are sometimes allowed for smaller pets in the cabin.
Check your airline for the exact size limits. For bigger pets traveling as cargo, you’ll need an IATA-approved kennel.
Skip kennels with wheels or detachable handles—they can cause problems. Make sure there’s plenty of ventilation on all sides.
Preparing Your Pet for the Journey
Start getting your pet used to the kennel a few weeks before you travel. Toss in some treats, a favorite toy, maybe their usual bedding—anything that makes it feel like home.
Try short stints in the kennel so your pet gets comfy inside. The goal’s for them to feel safe, not trapped.
Skip feeding your pet right before the flight; it helps with nausea. A little water is fine, but don’t go overboard.
Get your pet moving before the trip—a bit of exercise can help them relax later.
Carry a veterinary health certificate that’s dated within 10 days of your travel date. Some airlines, and plenty of destinations, won’t budge without it.
On travel day, do what you can to keep your pet calm. Never leave them alone in a hot car, not even for a quick errand.
Double-check those airline pet policies. They can be strict, and honestly, it’s not worth risking your pet’s safety.