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Traveling with your pet from New Orleans doesn’t have to be a headache—if you pick the right airline. The best airlines for pets departing New Orleans include Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines, which really do stand out for their pet-friendly policies and care.
These airlines let pets travel safely either in the cabin or as cargo, depending on your animal’s size and weight.
Every airline has its own set of pet rules—weight limits, fees, all that jazz—so knowing the details ahead of time can save you a lot of stress.
Prepping your pet before the trip is honestly just as important. It’ll make things easier for both of you.
Key Takeaways
- Go with airlines like Alaska and Frontier for smoother pet travel.
- Check pet size and age rules so you’re not caught off guard.
- Prep your pet well to keep airport hassles to a minimum.
Top-Rated Airlines for Pets Departing New Orleans
Some airlines out of New Orleans just make pet travel less complicated. You’ll find options for pets in the cabin, with clear carrier size limits and helpful services for travelers with animals.
American Airlines: Pet Travel Experience
American Airlines lets you bring small pets in the cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under your seat. The pet plus carrier can usually weigh up to about 20 pounds.
If your pet’s too big, American Airlines offers cargo options. That route means more paperwork and planning.
You’ve got to let them know in advance if you’re bringing a pet, since there’s a limit to how many animals can fly per flight. Fees vary, depending on your pet’s size and whether they’re in-cabin or in cargo.
Southwest Airlines: Flying with Pets
Southwest allows only small dogs and cats in the cabin. Your pet needs to stay in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
They don’t accept pets as cargo, so bigger animals are out of luck on Southwest.
There’s a standard pet fee, paid when you book your ticket.
They recommend checking their latest pet policies before booking. It’s smart to arrive early for pet check-in, too.
Other Pet-Friendly Airlines from New Orleans
Other airlines flying out of New Orleans have their own pet travel rules. Alaska Airlines is a favorite for pet owners, allowing small pets in-cabin and handling larger pets as cargo.
Air France sometimes lets pets up to about 22 pounds in the cabin, which is handy for international trips.
It’s always best to check each airline’s pet weight limits, fees, and carrier size rules before booking. Some airlines cap the number of pets per flight, so booking early matters.
Comparing Airline Pet Policies and Requirements
Flying with pets from New Orleans means wrapping your head around fees, size limits, and carrier rules. Airlines all have their own takes on what’s allowed in the cabin, how they handle checked pets, and what kinds of carriers they’ll accept.
In-Cabin Pet Policies
Most airlines allow small dogs and cats in the cabin. You’ll pay a fee, usually between $100 and $125 each way.
Your pet has to stay in a carrier that fits under the seat. Weight limits for pet plus carrier range from about 15 to 22 pounds, depending on the airline.
Alaska Airlines is known for making in-cabin pet travel pretty smooth. Frontier’s got reasonable fees and carrier options, too.
Some international airlines are stricter, with weight or breed limits.
You can’t take your pet out of the carrier during the flight. Booking early helps since there’s a cap on how many pets are allowed per flight.
Checked Baggage and Cargo Options for Pets
If your pet’s too large for the cabin, they’ll need to travel as checked baggage or cargo. Checked pets go in the cargo hold, but it’s climate-controlled and pressurized.
Checked pet fees are higher and all over the map, depending on the airline. Alaska and Frontier spell out their guidelines pretty clearly.
Some airlines only allow checked pets during certain seasons or temperatures.
You’ll need to drop your pet off well before the flight and might have to fill out health paperwork. Cargo travel isn’t really for pets with medical or behavioral issues.
Pet Carrier Specifications
Carriers for in-cabin pets must be airline-approved and fit under the seat. Soft-sided carriers with good ventilation are the usual go-to.
Typical allowed dimensions are about 17-19 inches long, 7-9 inches wide, and 10-11 inches high.
Hard-sided crates are for cargo or checked baggage pets only. They need to be roomy enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down.
Make sure the carrier closes securely—locks or zippers are a must. Some airlines require leak-proof bottoms and sturdy handles.
Each airline lists carrier rules on their website, so double-check before you book.
Preparing for Pet Travel from New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport
Traveling with pets through Louis Armstrong International Airport takes some planning. You’ll need to know how to book, what airport pet facilities exist, and which health documents are required.
These things can make your pet’s journey a lot smoother.
Booking Tips for Pet Owners
When booking, always check the airline’s pet policies first. Some airlines, like Delta, allow pets in the cabin, checked baggage, or cargo.
Make sure your pet fits the size, age, and weight limits for in-cabin travel.
Book early, since airlines limit the number of pets per flight. Notify the airline about your pet when you book or before your trip.
Pick a travel carrier that fits the rules—well-ventilated, secure, and labeled with your contact info.
Airport Facilities for Pets
Louis Armstrong International Airport has specific pet relief areas. These spots are there so your pet can do their business before or after the flight.
Look for signs pointing to these areas when you get to the airport. It’s a lifesaver during layovers or delays.
Some airlines have special handling areas or pet check-in counters. Ask your airline where to go for pet drop-off or pick-up so you’re not wandering around lost.
Health and Documentation Requirements
Every flight’s going to need some proof that your pet is healthy before you board. You’ll have to get a recent health certificate from your vet—usually within ten days of your trip.
Flying with a dog or cat? Make sure your pet’s old enough. For instance, American Airlines says pets need to be at least eight weeks old for domestic flights.
For international trips, they bump that up to six months. It’s a good idea to double-check your airline’s rules, since they can vary.
Vaccinations need to be current, especially rabies. Bring your vaccination records along, just in case.
Some places might want more paperwork, like microchip info. Get everything sorted ahead of time so you’re not scrambling or risking a canceled trip.