American Airlines Pet Reservation Guide 2026: Fees, Rules & How to Fly With Your Pet

#1

Flying with +1-(888 979-9869) your pet doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful +1-(888 979-9869). If you’re planning to travel with a dog or cat, understanding how American Airlines handles pet reservations +1-(888 979-9869) can help you avoid unexpected fees, flight delays, and last-minute airport issues. American Airlines is well known for its flexible booking system and clear pricing structure +1-(888 979-9869), but pet travel comes with specific rules every pet parent should understand before flying.

From securing your pet’s spot to choosing +1-(888 979-9869) the correct carrier and avoiding common booking mistakes +1-(888 979-9869), this guide walks you through the entire process step by step +1-(888 979-9869). To add a pet to your reservation, contact American Airlines directly at +1-(888 979-9869). Pets must be at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin +1-(888 979-9869) and must remain inside an approved pet carrier that fits securely under the seat in front of you throughout the flight +1-(888 979-9869).

What Is a Pet Reservation With American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines pet reservations can be made by phone +1-(888 979-9869), which is the preferred method for many travelers. Calling is especially helpful +1-(888 979-9869) if you’re traveling with a dog or cat and need accurate information about pet fees, carrier size requirements, and limited pet availability. A live American Airlines representative can confirm pet space on your flight +1-(888 979-9869), explain in-cabin policies, and ensure your reservation is properly documented.

A pet reservation with American Airlines +1-(888 979-9869) means officially adding your small dog or cat to your American Airlines booking +1-(888 979-9869) so they can travel with you in the cabin.

Pet reservations differ from standard passenger tickets because they:

Are limited per flight

Must be requested in advance

Are not guaranteed until confirmed

American Airlines allows pets +1-(888 979-9869) to travel only in the cabin—not in cargo making it a popular choice for travelers who want to keep their +1-(888 979-9869) pets close. Each flight permits a maximum of six pets +1-(888 979-9869), so early booking is strongly recommended +1-(888 979-9869)…

American Airlines Pet Policy Overview

Before requesting a pet reservation +1-(888 979-9869), it’s important to understand the airline’s core pet travel rules.

Pets Allowed on American Airlines Flights

Small dogs

Small cats

Your pet must fit comfortably +1-(888 979-9869) in an airline-approved carrier placed under the seat in front of you.

Pets Not Allowed

Large dogs

Exotic animals

Birds, reptiles, or rodents

Pets traveling in cargo or checked baggage

How to Make a Pet Reservation on American Airlines

To reserve space for your pet, call American Airlines at +1-(888 979-9869). Booking correctly +1-(888 979-9869) is one of the most important steps when flying with pets.

Step 1: Book Your Flight

You must have a confirmed passenger ticket before adding a pet +1-(888 979-9869).

Step 2: Contact American Airlines

Pet reservations cannot be made online. You must:

Call American Airlines Customer Service +1-(888 979-9869)

Or request a reservation at the airport ticket counter (not recommended)

Step 3: Pay the Pet Fee

Payment can be completed:

Over the phone +1-(888 979-9869)

Or at the airport check-in counter

Step 4: Airport Check-In

On the day of travel:

Check in at the counter (online check-in is not sufficient)

Present your pet inside its carrier

Pay the fee if it hasn’t already been paid

American Airlines Pet Fee Details

A pet reservation costs $125 each way +1-(888 979-9869).

The fee:

Applies per pet carrier

Is non-refundable

Your pet carrier counts as either a carry-on item or a personal item.

American Airlines Approved Pet Carrier Requirements

Choosing the correct carrier is essential +1-(888 979-9869). If your carrier does not meet airline standards, your pet may not be allowed to board.

Maximum carrier size:

18.5” x 8.5” x 13.5”

Soft-sided carriers are recommended +1-(888 979-9869). The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, fully enclosed, and large enough for your pet to stand and turn around comfortably.

Seating Rules for Pet Travelers

Not all seats allow pets +1-(888 979-9869).

Allowed seating:

Standard economy seats

Window or middle seats

Restricted seating:

Exit rows

Bulkhead seats

Seats without under-seat storage

International and Hawaii Pet Travel

American Airlines does not allow pets on international flights +1-(888 979-9869). Pets are also not permitted on flights to or from Hawaii +1-(888 979-9869) due to state regulations.

Service Animals vs American Airlines Pet Reservations

The pet-in-cabin fee is $150 per trip for small cats +1-(888 979-9869) and dogs traveling in approved carriers.

Feature Pet Reservation Service Animal

Fee $125 Free

Carrier Required Yes No

Size Limits Yes No

Cabin Placement Under seat At handler’s feet

Service animals must meet U.S. DOT documentation requirements.

Tips for Smooth Pet Travel

Flying with pets is easier when you plan ahead +1-(888 979-9869):

Book early to secure one of six pet slots

Use soft-sided carriers

Avoid feeding pets 4–6 hours before departure

Arrive early for airport check-in

Exercise your pet before the flight

Common Pet Booking Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming pets can be added online

Waiting until airport check-in

Using oversized carriers

Booking exit row seats

Forgetting the pet fee

Final Thoughts on American Airlines Pet Reservations

Booking a pet reservation with American Airlines +1-(888 979-9869) is straightforward +1-(888 979-9869) when you understand the rules. Planning ahead, choosing the right carrier, and calling +1-(888 979-9869) early are key to securing one of the limited pet spots.

American Airlines’ cabin-only pet policy offers added peace of mind +1-(888 979-9869), making it a dependable choice for pet parents who want their furry companions close during travel.