Which Airline Allows Emotional Support Animals?
In recent years, emotional support animals (ESAs) have gained significant attention for their invaluable role in providing comfort and support to individuals with emotional or psychological disabilities. These animals, typically dogs or cats, are recognized as a legitimate form of therapy and have become indispensable companions for those in need. While the laws surrounding the use of ESAs may vary depending on the country or region, many airlines have implemented policies to accommodate these animals and their owners during air travel. In this article, we will explore which airlines allow emotional support animals and answer some common questions regarding their transportation.
1. Delta Air Lines:
Delta Air Lines allows emotional support animals on their flights, but certain restrictions apply. Passengers must provide documentation stating the animal’s behavior, training, and health at least 48 hours before departure.
2. American Airlines:
American Airlines permits emotional support animals on their flights, but they require passengers to provide specific forms and documentation before traveling.
3. United Airlines:
United Airlines allows emotional support animals on their flights, but they require passengers to provide documentation at least 48 hours before their departure.
4. Southwest Airlines:
Southwest Airlines allows emotional support animals on their flights, as long as they meet the airline’s requirements and policies. Passengers must provide proper documentation and the animal must be well-behaved.
5. JetBlue Airways:
JetBlue Airways permits emotional support animals on their flights, provided they meet the airline’s guidelines and requirements. Passengers must provide documentation at least 48 hours before their departure.
6. Alaska Airlines:
Alaska Airlines allows emotional support animals on their flights, but they require passengers to submit specific forms and documentation in advance.
7. Spirit Airlines:
Spirit Airlines permits emotional support animals on their flights, as long as they meet the airline’s policies and guidelines. Passengers must provide proper documentation.
8. Frontier Airlines:
Frontier Airlines allows emotional support animals on their flights, but passengers must adhere to the airline’s guidelines and provide proper documentation.
9. Allegiant Air:
Allegiant Air permits emotional support animals on their flights, provided passengers follow the airline’s guidelines and provide required documentation.
10. Hawaiian Airlines:
Hawaiian Airlines allows emotional support animals on their flights, but they require passengers to submit specific forms and documentation in advance.
11. Virgin Atlantic:
Virgin Atlantic permits emotional support animals on their flights, but they have specific guidelines and requirements that passengers must follow.
12. Air Canada:
Air Canada allows emotional support animals on their flights, provided passengers follow the airline’s policies and provide proper documentation.
13. Lufthansa:
Lufthansa permits emotional support animals on their flights, but passengers must adhere to the airline’s guidelines and provide required documentation.
Now, let’s address some common questions regarding emotional support animals during air travel:
Q1. Do airlines charge additional fees for emotional support animals?
A1. Some airlines may charge additional fees for emotional support animals, while others do not.
Q2. Can I bring any type of animal as an emotional support animal?
A2. Most airlines only accept dogs and cats as emotional support animals. However, it’s important to check with the specific airline for their policies.
Q3. Do emotional support animals need to be in a carrier during the flight?
A3. Yes, emotional support animals usually need to be in a carrier during the flight, unless they are small enough to be held on the passenger’s lap.
Q4. Can I sit with my emotional support animal on the plane?
A4. On most airlines, emotional support animals are allowed to sit with their owners in the cabin, either on their lap or on the floor by their feet.
Q5. Do I need to provide any documentation for my emotional support animal?
A5. Yes, most airlines require passengers to provide specific documentation, including a letter from a licensed mental health professional, stating the need for an emotional support animal.
Q6. Are there size or weight restrictions for emotional support animals?
A6. Some airlines may have size or weight restrictions for emotional support animals, so it’s important to check with the airline before traveling.
Q7. Can I bring multiple emotional support animals on the same flight?
A7. Most airlines allow only one emotional support animal per passenger, but it’s essential to check with the specific airline for their policies.
Q8. Can I bring my emotional support animal on international flights?
A8. Emotional support animals are generally allowed on international flights, but it’s crucial to check with the airline and destination country for any specific requirements or restrictions.
Q9. Can I bring my emotional support animal into the airport terminal?
A9. Emotional support animals are typically allowed in airport terminals, but it’s advisable to check with the airport authorities for their policies.
Q10. Can emotional support animals be seated near other passengers with allergies?
A10. Airlines usually take precautions to seat passengers with allergies away from emotional support animals, but it’s essential to inform the airline of any allergies during the booking process.
Q11. Can emotional support animals be taken out of their carriers during the flight?
A11. Emotional support animals must remain in their carriers during the flight, except for service animals that perform specific tasks.
Q12. Can an emotional support animal be denied boarding?
A12. Airlines reserve the right to deny boarding to an emotional support animal if it exhibits aggressive behavior or poses a threat to the safety of other passengers.
Q13. Can an emotional support animal accompany me in the airport lounge?
A13. Airport lounges have their policies regarding emotional support animals, so it’s advisable to check with the specific lounge for their guidelines.
Remember, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the policies and guidelines of the airline you are flying with, as they may vary. Additionally, it’s essential to provide all required documentation and ensure your emotional support animal is well-behaved and properly trained before embarking on your journey.