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Which Airlines Allow Emotional Support Animals in 2025?

Most U.S.-based airlines no longer allow emotional support animals (ESAs) to fly for free as service animals due to changes in federal regulations. However, some international airlines and smaller carriers still permit ESAs under specific conditions. For example, airlines like Volaris, LATAM, and Aeroméxico may allow ESAs on certain flights, but they typically require documentation from a licensed mental health professional. Since policies vary widely between airlines and routes, it’s crucial to confirm the specific requirements with the airline before booking your flight.

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Traveling with Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) has become a crucial topic for many passengers, especially with the changes in airline policies. If you’re planning to fly in 2025 and want to ensure your ESA can accompany you, it’s essential to understand which airlines are allowing Emotional Support Animals. This article will provide an in-depth look at current ESA airline policies for 2025 to help you prepare for your next flight. For example, Air Canada is known for its pet-friendly policies, allowing small pets in the cabin and larger animals in a dedicated cargo area, making it a great option for travelers with pets.

Why Have Airline Policies Changed?

In recent years, several airlines have revised their policies on Emotional Support Animals on planes due to increasing incidents and regulatory changes.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) updated its guidelines, allowing airlines to categorize Emotional Support Animals as pets rather than service animals based on the airline’s rules. This shift has led to stricter policies, with many airlines no longer accepting ESAs on flights.

However, some airlines still have ESA-friendly policies, particularly for passengers with proper documentation. Let’s explore the current scenario of airlines accepting Emotional Support Animals.

Which Airlines Can Allow My Emotional Support Animals?

1. LATAM Airlines

Service Area: Latam is the largest air carrier in Latin America, offering global routes.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Latam allows service dogs, emotional support dogs and emotional support cats. Applies specifically to flights to/from Colombia and Mexico, and domestic flights within Colombia.
Cost: Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) travel free.
Animal Requirements: Must fit in a carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of you.
Breed Restrictions: Potentially dangerous breeds or aggressive dogs are prohibited in the cabin.
Additional Considerations: Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including an ESA letter if required. Additionally, an anti-bite muzzle is mandatory for all emotional support dogs. When traveling with an animal companion, especially to the UK, be aware of specific requirements and restrictions, such as necessary documentation and health checks. Contact the airline ahead of time to confirm policies, as they may vary by route

2. Volaris Airlines

Service Area: Major low-cost airline in Mexico with routes across the Americas.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Volaris Airlines allows ESAs (cats and dogs) and Service Dogs.
Cost: ESAs travel free on flights within Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Animal Requirements: The animal must weigh no more than 22 pounds.
Carrier Requirements: Not required to ride in a carrier; a leash or harness is acceptable.
Additional Considerations: Policies may vary for international flights or different regions; check with Volaris ahead of your trip. Ensure your ESA is well-behaved, as disruptive animals may be denied boarding. Pets that do not meet the size or behavior requirements for cabin travel may be classified as checked pets, subject to breed restrictions and additional fees.

3. Aeroméxico

Service Area: Flag carrier of Mexico, serving destinations across the Americas, Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Aeromexico allows ESAs (both dogs and cats)and service animals.
Cost: Free travel for ESAs.
Animal Requirements: Must weigh no more than 26 pounds. Can ride on your lap or in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you.
Seating Adjustments: May need to change seats if another passenger has allergies. Your ESA must remain well-behaved during the entire flight, including boarding and deboarding.
Additional Considerations: Aeroméxico may have specific restrictions based on flight duration or destination, so it’s important to check their policies in advance. Ensure your ESA letter is current and meets all airline requirements. Common emotional support animals include dogs, cats, and birds, highlighting the variety of species that can serve as emotional support.

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Which Airlines Accept Emotional Support Animals As Pets?

Most U.S. airlines no longer recognize Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals, but some airlines do allow ESAs to travel as pets. Due to regulatory changes in the Air Carrier Access Act, only a few airlines now permit emotional support animals in the cabin. Here is the list of pet-friendly airlines.

1. Delta Airlines

Policy: Delta Airlines does not recognize Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals, but they can travel as pets in the cabin. Compared to other airlines, Delta’s policy is stricter, as some airlines have more lenient rules regarding ESAs..
Fees: Domestic Flights: $95 to $125 per pet, each way, depending on the route. International Flights: $200 per pet, each way.
Type of Pet Allowed: Small dogs, cats, and household birds are permitted.
Size/Weight Limits: Delta Airlines states the pet must comfortably fit in a soft-sided, ventilated pet kennel that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).

2. American Airlines

Policy: Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) can no longer fly for free as service animals with American Airlines but can travel as pets in the cabin or cargo hold, depending on their size and weight.ESAs can also be transported through American Airlines Cargo depending on the animal’s size and breed, with specific policies on pet travel, including age restrictions and travel conditions.
Fees: Domestic Flights (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands): $125 per pet, each way. (Exception: $125 per pet for flights to/from Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.)
Type of Pet Allowed: Cats and dogs are the only pets allowed to travel in the cabin.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 19 inches x 13 inches x 9 inches (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm). The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg) to qualify for in-cabin travel. If your pet exceeds the size or weight limits for in-cabin travel, they may still travel in the cargo hold, subject to additional fees and requirements.

3. United Airlines

Policy: United Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets.
Fees: Domestic Flights: $125 per pet, each way. International Flights: $125 per pet, each way, with some exceptions based on specific destinations.
Type of Pet Allowed: Cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat. The carrier dimensions of a soft-sided kennel must not exceed 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches (46 cm x 27 cm x 27 cm). The carrier dimensions of a hard-sided kennel must be 17.5 inches x 12 inches x 9 inches (44 cm x 30 cm x 22 cm).

4. Southwest Airlines

Policy: Southwest Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets in the cabin.
Fees: For the U.S. Mainland, the Pet Fare is $125 each way per pet carrier. For traveling between Hawaiian Islands, the Pet Fare is $35 each way per pet carrier. There is an extra pet fee for traveling with emotional support animals in the cabin, similar to the fee for pets.
Type of Pet Allowed: Small cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit under the seat in front of you. The cat or dog must be completely inside the pet carrier and be able to stand up and move around the carrier with ease. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 18.5 inches x 9.5 inches x 13.5 inches.

5. Alaska Airlines

Policy: Alaska Airlines accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as pets.
Fees: Domestic Flights: $100 – $150 per pet, each way.
Type of Pet Allowed: Cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions depend upon the size of the animal.
Additional Considerations: A valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required before travel to ensure the safe transportation of pets.

6. JetBlue Airlines

Policy: JetBlue Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets in the cabin.
Fees: Domestic Flights: $125 per pet, each way. International Flights: $125 per pet, each way.
Type of Pet Allowed: JetBlue Airlines allows small cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit in a carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 17 inches x 12.5 inches x 8.5 inches (43 cm x 32 cm x 22 cm). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).

7. Frontier Airlines

Policy: Frontier Airlines accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as pets.
Fees: Domestic Flights: $99 per pet, each way (Frontier does not offer international pet travel).
Type of Pet Allowed: Domesticated dogs and cats.
Size/Weight Limits: Frontier Airlines specifies that pets must meet the size and weight restrictions for in-cabin travel. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches (46 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm).

8. Spirit Airlines

Policy: Spirit Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets in the cabin.
Fees: Pets travel with a fee of around $110 – $125.
Type of Pet Allowed: Small cats, dogs, and household birds.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must be small enough to fit under the seat in a carrier. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 18 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches (46 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm). The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 40 pounds (18 kg).

9. Hawaiian Airlines

Policy: Hawaiian Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets.
Fees: Within the State of Hawaii: $35.00 and traveling between Hawaii and North America: $125.00.
Type of Pet Allowed: Cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Pets must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 17 inches x 11 inches x 9.5 inches.
Additional Information: Hawaiian Airlines only allows pets on interisland flights and flights leaving the state of Hawaii. There are specific regulations for pets traveling to and from Hawaii due to the state’s strict quarantine laws. It is important to understand the legal aspect of reasonable accommodations for emotional support animals in housing and public spaces, as federal and state regulations, including those in Arkansas, permit individuals to request these accommodations.

What Are The Breeds That Airlines May Deny?

Airlines often have strict policies prohibiting potentially dangerous breeds or aggressive dogs from being allowed in the cabin, prioritizing the safety and comfort of all passengers. The specific breeds banned from flying in the cabin can vary by airline.

Still, some of the most commonly restricted breeds due to concerns about aggression or safety include Pit Bull Terriers (including American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers), Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Brussels Griffon, Mastiffs (including Bullmastiffs and Tibetan Mastiffs), Cane Corsos and Boxer.

In addition to these breeds, some airlines may restrict any dog that has a history of aggressive behavior, regardless of its breed. However, if your dog is well-mannered and well-behaved irrespective of their breed, many airlines will accommodate them, provided they meet the size and weight restrictions for in-cabin pets.

It’s important to check with the specific airline for their breed restrictions and behavioral requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience for you and your dog. Trained service dogs are granted specific rights to travel with their owners on airlines under federal law.

What To Consider When Flying With My ESA In 2025?

Points To Consider When Flying With ESA in 2025

Bookings
- Always notify the airline in advance when traveling with an ESA to ensure availability and compliance with their policies.
- Bring copies of all required documentation, including the ESA letter, vaccination records, Behavioral Declaration Form, Animal Health Certificate, and Rabies Vaccination Certificate. These documents can vary from airline to airline.
- Arrive early at the airport to allow time for any additional check-in procedures.
- Clear communication with airline staff is crucial for passengers who have questions or need to make special arrangements for their ESAs.
Documentation
Most airlines that allow emotional support animals require an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional, which must be dated within the last year. Apart from an ESA letter, health certificates, and up-to-date vaccination certificates can also be demanded by some airlines.
Ensure the ESA letter includes all necessary details such as the professional’s contact information, license number, and a statement of need for the ESA. Additionally, obtaining a psychiatric service dog letter involves an evaluation by a licensed mental health professional to assess the individual’s mental health symptoms.
Behavioral Expectations
- Your ESA must be well-behaved throughout the flight; any signs of aggression or disruptive behavior may result in the animal being denied boarding or removed from the flight.
Health And Safety
- Ensure your ESA is comfortable with air travel, including being in a confined space for several hours.
- Consider a preflight visit to the vet to ensure your ESA is in good health and fit to travel.
Airline Pet Policies
- Research airline-specific policies on ESAs before booking, as most U.S. airlines now treat ESAs as regular pets. Familiarize yourself with the specific pet policies of the airline you intend to fly with.
- This includes knowing the fees, carrier size restrictions, and the number of pets allowed on board. Moreover, if you are considering international travel make sure to have proper information about the airlines you opt for.
- Service dogs, unlike ESAs, undergo essential training to perform tasks relating to managing both physical and mental health conditions.
Prepare Your ESA For Travel
- Train your ESA for travel stress by familiarizing them with confined spaces.
- Bring comforting items like toys or blankets, and consult a vet for anxiety or motion sickness tips.
- Service animals are individually trained to perform specific tasks that assist their owners with disabilities, distinguishing them from emotional support animals.
Be Mindful Of Other Passengers
- Ensure your ESA is well-behaved and calm during the flight.
- Keep them on a short leash or in a carrier, and be ready to address any passenger concerns.
By following these steps, you can help ensure a hassle-free travel experience for both you and your emotional support animal. Always plan, stay informed, and be respectful of others to make your journey as smooth as possible. Emotional support animals help alleviate symptoms related to mental health issues, including mental illness, providing comfort for conditions like anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Flying with your Emotional Support Animal can be challenging due to changing norms, but being informed is the first step to ensuring a smooth travel experience. If you plan to travel with your ESA in 2025, research the latest airline policies, prepare your documentation, and consider alternative options if your preferred airline no longer accepts ESAs. Emotional support animals provide comfort and support to individuals coping with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Still Bring My Emotional Support Animal On a Plane in 2025?

Most U.S. airlines no longer recognize Emotional Support Animals. However, some international airlines and a few domestic carriers may still allow ESAs, typically under their pet policies. It’s essential to check with your specific airline before booking. While various types of animals can be classified as ESAs, only dogs are recognized as psychiatric service animals that can perform essential tasks for their handlers.

What Documentation Do I Need To Fly With My Emotional Support Animal in 2025?

While most airlines have moved ESAs under their pet policies, you will still need a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. This document might be required for certain international flights or to demonstrate your need for an ESA, even if it’s categorized as a pet. Additionally, you need to have vaccinations and a health certificate of your ESA.

Can I Bring Multiple Emotional Support Animals On a Plane?

Most airlines only allow one pet per passenger in the cabin. If you have more than one ESA, you may need to make special arrangements, such as having a travel companion or checking the additional ESA as cargo. However, this may depend on the airlines. So check its rules before traveling. Some other airlines have more lenient policies regarding the number of ESAs allowed per passenger, which may influence your choice of carrier.

How Do Airlines Differentiate Between a Service Animal And An Emotional Support Animal?

Service Animals are specially trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities and are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Emotional Support Animals provide emotional comfort but are not trained for specific tasks, so they fall under different regulations and are generally not recognized as service animals by most airlines.
Psychiatric service animals, which assist individuals with psychiatric disabilities, must meet specific training standards and are recognized as service animals under federal law, allowing them to travel on airlines at no additional charge.

What Alternatives Do I Have If My Airline Doesn’t Allow ESAs?

If your airline no longer allows ESAs, you can consider flying with your ESA as a pet if they meet the airline’s pet policy requirements. Alternatively, you could travel by train or car, or explore other pet-friendly airlines or international carriers that may still accommodate ESAs. Additionally, be aware that airlines like Delta Airlines have specific age and documentation requirements for traveling with other animals beyond just dogs and cats.

Do Airlines Require Advance Notice To Travel With An Emotional Support Animal?

Yes, most airlines require you to notify them in advance if you plan to travel with an ESA, even if it’s treated as a pet. This allows the airline to make necessary arrangements and ensure compliance with its policies. Additionally, it is crucial to inform the airline staff in advance to facilitate smooth communication and adherence to regulations regarding the transportation of your ESA.

Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed On Planes For International Flights?

Yes, some international airlines, like Lufthansa and Air France, may still allow ESAs on specific routes, particularly to and from the U.S. Ensure you have all necessary documentation and check the airline’s specific policies for international ESA travel. For an international flight, you will need proper documents, including an ESA letter and health certifications specific to the destination, and be aware of age restrictions and fees that vary depending on the airline and travel route.

Do Airlines Charge For Emotional Support Animals?

Yes, most airlines that allow ESA dogs on planes now charge a pet travel fee, as ESAs are categorized as pets. The fee can range from $75 to $200 per flight segment, depending on the airline and route. Additionally, airlines treat ESAs like pets, requiring an extra pet fee for traveling with them in the cabin, with specific fee structures based on travel destinations and types of animals.

What Are The ESA Flight Rules in 2025?

The rules for flying with ESAs have changed significantly. ESAs are typically treated as pets, by most of the airlines requiring them to meet pet travel regulations, including size restrictions and travel fees. Make sure to check the specific airline ESA policies before booking your flight. Additionally, be aware that airline’s rules regarding the transportation of emotional support animals can vary significantly, affecting travel fees, documentation requirements, and the conditions under which animals may be allowed in the cabin or transported as checked baggage.

Can ESA Dogs Fly in The Cabin?

Yes, but only under certain conditions. Most airlines now require ESA dogs to meet pet travel standards, including fitting in an under-seat carrier. Some international airlines may still allow ESAs in the cabin without restrictions, but it’s essential to verify this with your carrier. Additionally, traveling with an emotional support dog often requires documentation such as health certificates and vaccination records.

Can A Psychiatric Service Dog Fly With Me On American Airlines?

Yes, American Airlines allows psychiatric service dogs on board as long as they meet the airline’s documentation and behavior standards. These service animals must be trained to assist with a specific emotional or mental disability and are not treated the same as emotional support animals. Only service dogs are permitted in the cabin free of charge.

Do Airlines Flying To South America Accept Emotional Support Animals?

Some airlines traveling to South America—such as LATAM Airlines—still accept emotional support animals on board. However, it’s essential to verify whether the ESA is permitted in the cabin or must travel in the cargo hold. While most U.S. carriers have updated their policies, international routes often retain more flexible ESA guidelines.

What’s The Difference Between Psychiatric Service Dogs And Assistance Animals?

Psychiatric service dogs are specially trained service animals that assist individuals with psychiatric conditions, including PTSD or anxiety. They are different from assistance animals like ESAs, which provide comfort but lack task-specific training. Only psychiatric service dogs are recognized as service animals under the ADA, making them eligible for air travel accommodations with proper documentation.

How Can I Travel With A Psychiatric Service Dog On Alaska Airlines Or Delta Airlines?

Both Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines allow psychiatric service dogs on their flights. You’ll need documentation signed by a licensed mental health professional confirming that your psychiatric service dog is necessary due to a diagnosed mental health condition. These service animals must remain well-behaved and under control throughout the flight.

Are Psychiatric Service Dogs Allowed On United Airlines And Southwest Airlines?

Yes, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines recognize psychiatric service dogs as legitimate service dogs under federal law. However, they no longer allow ESAs. Make sure your dog qualifies as a psychiatric service dog and that a certified mental health professional has provided the required documents.

Can An Animal Companion Be Considered A Service Animal If It Supports A Mental Disability?

An animal companion is not automatically considered a service animal unless it is trained to perform specific tasks that assist with a mental disability. Only dogs trained for such tasks are categorized as service dogs, with psychiatric service dogs being a common subtype. While assistance animals may provide comfort, only those trained to perform tasks for a disability meet the legal definition of service animals.

Are Miniature Horses Ever Considered Service Animals For Air Travel?

While dogs are the most common service animals, miniature horses can sometimes be considered service animals under the ADA if they are trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. However, when it comes to air travel, most airlines have specific policies that restrict animals by size and species. As a result, miniature horses are rarely accepted in flight.

Are Psychiatric Service Dogs Still Allowed on Planes?

All airlines allow PSD unlike ESA thanks to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) which allows psychiatric service dogs to fly in the cabin with you. The handler does not need to pay any additional charges for their PSD as they can fly for free provided the handler should have a PSD letter from a licensed mental health professional. Psychiatric service dogs are individually trained to perform specific tasks that assist their owners with disabilities.

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