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Traveling with your pet from Sioux Falls, South Dakota? Picking an airline that actually cares about your pet’s comfort and safety is a must.
Alaska Airlines is often mentioned as a favorite for flying with pets, thanks to their reliable, pet-friendly vibe. Frontier Airlines is another solid pick, offering pet services for those leaving from Sioux Falls.
When you book, make sure you’ve checked each airline’s pet policies and fees. These can really vary. Most airlines only let you bring one pet per passenger, and you’re usually looking at about $125 each way for domestic flights.
Knowing these rules ahead of time saves you hassle. It’ll make the trip easier for both you and your furry (or not-so-furry) sidekick.
Sioux Falls connects you to plenty of destinations with big-name carriers. Whether you’re flying close by or heading far, picking a pet-friendly airline can make a world of difference for your pet’s comfort.
Key Takeaways
- Alaska and Frontier Airlines are top choices for pet travel from Sioux Falls.
- Understanding each airline’s pet rules and fees is key to smooth planning.
- Sioux Falls flights offer good options for both local and far-off adventures with pets.
Top-Rated Airlines for Pet Travel From Sioux Falls
You’ve got a handful of decent airlines to choose from when flying with pets out of Sioux Falls. Each one has its own rules for carriers, fees, and whether pets can ride in the cabin or need to go in cargo.
Knowing the details helps you avoid surprises and keeps your pet as comfy as possible.
Delta Air Lines
Delta lets you bring small pets in the cabin on most flights, including those leaving Sioux Falls. Your pet has to fit in a soft carrier under the seat in front of you.
This keeps your pet close and less stressed during the flight.
If your animal is too big for the cabin, Delta offers cargo transport with temperature and handling controls. You’ll need to book this in advance.
Fees depend on the size of your pet and where you’re headed.
Delta asks for a health certificate dated within 10 days of travel. Don’t skip that step.
American Airlines
American Airlines allows small dogs and cats in the cabin from Sioux Falls. The carrier must fit under the seat and meet their size limits.
You can find the exact measurements on their site, and honestly, double-checking never hurts.
If your pet can’t fly in the cabin, they might be able to go as checked baggage or cargo, but not every route offers this. Book early—pet spots fill up fast.
A current health certificate is a must. Have your paperwork ready at boarding.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air flies out of Sioux Falls and is all about small pets in the cabin—no cargo option here. Your pet stays in a soft-sided carrier the whole time.
The fee per pet isn’t too bad, but only two pets are allowed per flight. All pets have to fly with their humans.
You’ll need your pet’s health certificate and have to follow their rules for carrier size and pet behavior.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines gets high marks for pet service from Sioux Falls. Small pets can come in the cabin as long as they fit in an approved carrier.
If you’ve got a bigger animal, Alaska lets them travel in the cargo hold with temperature controls and careful handling. Booking early is smart, since spots are limited.
They’ll want a recent health certificate for all pets. Alaska’s clear rules and focus on safety make them a standout for pet travel.
Pet Travel Policies and Services by Popular Carriers
Flying out of Sioux Falls, you can travel with your pet in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on the airline. Each carrier has its own way of handling pet reservations and paperwork.
In-Cabin Pet Travel Options
Most big airlines let small dogs and cats fly in the cabin. Usually, it’s one pet per passenger, and there are strict size and weight rules for the carrier.
For example, the pet and carrier together have to fit under the seat in front of you.
Fees are typically around $125 each way for domestic flights. Always check that your pet meets the airline’s age and size limits before booking.
Some airlines only allow cats and dogs in the cabin, so get the details from the airline directly.
Pet Cargo and Checked Baggage Services
If your pet’s too big for the cabin, the cargo hold is your next option. You’ll have to check your pet at the ticket counter.
Airlines offer cargo services designed for pets, focusing on safety and comfort.
Book early—cargo space can fill up. Some airlines call this “pet cargo” or “air express.”
Fees and rules vary, so always ask about temperature controls or special handling. Your pet needs to be in an approved crate that meets airline standards.
Pet Reservation and Documentation Requirements
You have to reserve your pet’s spot before flying, either online or at the airport. Some airlines let you bring two pets, but you might have to buy an extra seat if you want them together in the cabin.
You’ll usually need a recent health certificate, vaccination records, and sometimes proof of microchipping. Each airline has its own forms and rules.
Double-check your airline’s pet policy to avoid last-minute problems.
Connecting From Sioux Falls to Domestic and International Destinations
Sioux Falls Regional Airport connects you to major U.S. hubs with pet-friendly policies. You can also reach international spots across Europe, Africa, and Asia, but each destination has its own rules and age minimums for pets.
Major U.S. Hubs and Their Pet Policies
You can connect through big hubs like Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) from Sioux Falls. These airports serve airlines like Delta, United, and American, all of which accept pets on domestic flights.
- Delta Air Lines: One pet per passenger, about $125 each way.
- American Airlines: Dogs must be at least eight weeks old for domestic flights.
- United Airlines: Allows pets if your destination permits; options for in-cabin and cargo.
Most hubs have pet relief areas to make layovers less stressful.
Traveling With Pets to Europe, Africa, and Asia
International trips from Sioux Falls usually go through hubs like Chicago, Minneapolis, or Detroit. Airlines such as British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France cover Europe and have clear pet policies.
- Most airlines require pets to be at least six months old for international flights.
- South African Airways and Ethiopian Airlines fly to Africa, allowing pet travel in cargo.
- For Asia, airlines like Air China, China Southern, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air accept pets, but they have their own health and paperwork rules.
Middle Eastern airlines—Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai—also allow pets with advance notice, either in the cabin or cargo. Always check your destination’s pet import rules so you don’t run into trouble.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Pet Flight Experience
Flying your pet out of Sioux Falls takes some planning. You’ll need to prep your pet’s crate, get health checks, and know the airport rules.
Weather matters too—summer heat or winter cold can really affect how you should travel with your pet.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
Start by letting your pet get used to their crate or carrier well before the flight. Leave it open at home for a few days so they can explore.
This helps lower their stress when it’s time to travel.
Check your airline’s crate size and type rules. For example, Alaska Airlines charges a $100 pet fee and allows dogs and cats in the cabin.
Hot summer days can be risky, especially for pets in the cargo hold. If you can, avoid booking flights during the hottest part of the day or in the middle of summer.
Pack a favorite toy or blanket to help your pet feel at home.
If you’re booking an air charter or need special arrangements—like an air ambulance—book early and double-check the pet rules. Some flight services have strict temperature and weight limits.
Airport Procedures and Health Considerations
Try to get to the airport about two hours ahead when you’re flying with pets. That way, you’re not scrambling through check-in or security.
You’ll need to bring your pet’s health certificates and proof of vaccinations. Some airports near Sioux Falls have limits—like United Airlines, which lets you bring two pets but makes you buy two seats.
It’s a good idea to talk to your vet about calming meds or hydration tips. Honestly, I wouldn’t feed your pet right before the flight; it can make them queasy.
If you’re traveling in summer, keep an eye on airport and plane temps. A lot of airlines won’t let pets fly if it gets too hot. Always double-check with your airline before you go.