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Which Airlines Allow Emotional Support Animals in 2026?

Most U.S. airlines no longer allow emotional support animals (ESAs) to fly for free due to federal rule changes. However, some international carriers—like Volaris, LATAM, and Aeroméxico—may still accept ESAs with proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional. Always check the airline’s current ESA policy before booking.

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Published
February 06, 2024

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Last Updated
June 12, 2026

Medical Context Reviewed By:
Dr. Perry Payne
Perry W. Payne, Jr., MD, JD, MPP

Legal Accuracy Reviewed by:
Dr. Perry Payne
Attorney & Physician with expertise in health law and disability policy

Author
Prince Sharma
Lead Content Strategist and Editorial Director

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 2026 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 2026 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, operating international and domestic routes.
Pet-Friendly Policy: LATAM allows emotional support dogs and cats on specific routes, including flights to/from Colombia and Mexico, and domestic flights within Colombia.
Cost: ESAs travel free of charge on qualifying routes.
Animal Requirements: The ESA must weigh no more than 12 kg (26 lbs) and fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat.
Breed Restrictions: Aggressive or potentially dangerous breeds are prohibited.
Additional Considerations: An anti-bite muzzle is mandatory for emotional support dogs. Ensure you carry valid ESA documentation and check route-specific policies by contacting the airline in advance.

2. Volaris Airlines

Service Area: Volaris is a major low-cost Mexican airline with routes across the Americas.
ESA Policy: Volaris Airlines allows emotional support dogs and cats on domestic flights within Mexico and certain regional routes.
Cost: ESAs travel free on approved routes.
Animal Requirements: The ESA must weigh no more than 26 pounds (including the carrier).
Carrier Requirements: Not required to be in a carrier, but a leash or harness is mandatory.
Additional Considerations: Behavioral standards apply—disruptive animals may be denied boarding. Check with Volaris ahead of travel for route-specific policies.

3. Aeroméxico

Service Area: Flag carrier of Mexico with routes throughout the Americas, Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.
ESA Policy: Aeromexico permits emotional support dogs and cats, with documentation.
Cost: ESAs travel free of charge on eligible flights.
Animal Requirements: ESA must weigh no more than 26 pounds and may ride on your lap or in a carrier under the seat.
Seating Adjustments: You may be asked to change seats if another passenger has allergies.
Additional Considerations: Always carry a valid ESA letter. Restrictions may vary depending on destination or flight duration.

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 ESAs as service animals. However, they may travel as in-cabin pets.
Fees:
- Domestic & Canada Flights: $150 each way.
- International Flights: $200 each way.
Type of Pet Allowed: Small dogs, cats, and household birds.
Size/Weight Limits: Delta Airlines states the pet and carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Soft-sided carrier dimensions: 18 in x 11 in x 11 in (46 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm).
Additional Notes: Only one pet per passenger. The carrier must be ventilated and leak-proof.

2. American Airlines

Policy: ESAs are no longer considered service animals and may travel as pets in-cabin or via cargo, depending on size.
Fees:

Flights to/from Canada, Mexico, Central America, Caribbean: $125 each way.
Domestic, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands: $125 each way.

Type of Pet Allowed: Cats and dogs only.
Size/Weight Limits: Pet and carrier must fit under the seat. Carrier size limit: 19 in x 13 in x 9 in (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm). Combined weight must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
Additional Notes: Pets exceeding in-cabin limits may travel through American Airlines Cargo.

3. United Airlines

Policy: In United Airlines ESAs may travel as pets under United’s in-cabin pet program.
Fees: Domestic & International Flights: $125 each way (some destinations may vary)
Type of Pet Allowed: Dogs and cats
Size/Weight Limits:

Soft-sided carrier dimensions: 18 in x 11 in x 11 in (46 cm x 27 cm x 27 cm).
Hard-sided carrier: 17.5 in x 12 in x 9 in (44 cm x 30 cm x 22 cm).

Additional Notes: Only one pet per carrier. Restrictions may apply by destination.

4. Southwest Airlines

Policy: Southwest Airlines allows Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) to travel as pets in the cabin.
Fees:
- U.S. Mainland: $125 each way
- Between Hawaiian Islands: $35 each way
Type of Pet Allowed: Small cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Carrier must fit under the seat. Max carrier dimensions: 18.5 in x 13.5 in x 9.5 in.
Additional Notes: Pets must stay in the carrier for the entire flight.

5. Alaska Airlines

Policy: Alaska Airlines allows small domesticated dogs and cats to travel in the cabin for an additional fee. Emotional support animals are treated as pets and must follow standard pet travel rules.
Fees: $100–$150 each way (route-dependent)
Type of Pet Allowed: Only small domesticated dogs and cats are permitted in the passenger cabin. Rabbits, household birds, and other species are no longer accepted for new cabin bookings.
Size/Weight Limits: Carrier must fit under the seat; size varies by aircraft.
Additional Considerations: A vet-issued health certificate is often required. Space is limited, so book early. Restrictions apply for cargo travel and certain breeds.

6. JetBlue Airlines

Policy: In JetBlue Airlines only small dogs and cats are accepted as in-cabin pets. ESAs must travel as pets in an FAA-approved carrier that fits under the seat.
Fees: $125 each way (domestic & international).
Type of Pet Allowed: Small cats and dogs.
Size/Weight Limits: Carrier must not exceed 17 in x 12.5 in x 8.5 in (43 cm x 32 cm x 22 cm).
Additional Notes: Pets must remain fully inside the carrier at all times while in the airport and during the flight. Large dogs are not accommodated.

7. Frontier Airlines

Policy: In Frontier Airlines emotional support animals are subject to standard pet policies and allowed only on U.S. domestic flights. International pet travel is not permitted.
Fees: $99 each way.
Type of Pet Allowed: Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds (U.S. flights only).
Size/Weight Limits:

Hard-sided carrier: Max 18″ L x 14″ W x 8″ H
Soft-sided carrier (recommended): Max 18″ L x 14″ W x 11″ H

Additional Notes: The Carrier must fit under the seat. Only one adult dog or cat per container.

8. Spirit Airlines

Policy: Spirit Airlines treats Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as pets; they are subject to the airline’s standard in-cabin pet policies.
Fees: $125 each way.
Type of Pet Allowed:

Small domestic dogs
Domestic cats
Small household birds (not allowed to/from Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands)
Small domestic rabbits (not allowed to/from Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands)

Size/Weight Limits: Carrier must not exceed 18″ x 14″ x 9″ and must fit under the seat.
Additional Notes: Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times during travel. Exotic animals (e.g., snakes, rodents, spiders) are not accepted. A maximum of two pets per container is allowed, but only one container per guest.

9. Hawaiian Airlines

Policy: Hawaiian Airlines treats ESAs as pets and only accepts them under standard pet rules.
Fees: $35 inter-island; $125 North America–Hawaii
Type of Pet Allowed: Dogs, cats (cabin); household birds (checked baggage only within Hawaii)
Carrier Requirements: Soft-sided, leak-proof, max 17 × 11 × 9.5 in, under-seat.
Restrictions: One adult dog/cat (or two puppies/kittens/birds).
Documentation & Quarantine: Health certificate required, quarantine possible on arrival

Which Dog Breeds Are Not Allowed to Fly in 2026?

Most U.S. airlines no longer ban specific dog breeds outright, especially for in-cabin pet travel. Instead, restrictions typically focus on two key factors: health risks and behavioral concerns.

Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds, such as French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Brussels Griffons, are often prohibited from traveling in the cargo hold due to increased risks of respiratory distress at high altitudes. Airlines like Delta and Alaska enforce this policy to ensure animal safety.

For pets traveling in the cabin, most airlines will allow any breed that fits the carrier size requirements and demonstrates calm, non-disruptive behavior. Dogs that bark excessively, growl, lunge, or pose a threat may be denied boarding regardless of their breed.

To avoid surprises at the airport, always review your airline’s most recent pet travel policy at least 48 hours before departure. This helps ensure your pet meets all breed, behavior, size, and documentation requirements for safe and stress-free travel.

What to Consider When Flying With Your ESA in 2026?

Flying with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in 2026 requires careful planning. Most U.S. airlines now treat ESAs as regular pets, which means you must follow their pet policies closely. From booking to behavior, here’s everything you need to ensure a smooth experience in the air.

How to Book a Flight With an ESA in 2026?

When flying with an emotional support animal, always inform the airline in advance. Many carriers limit the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight.
Steps to take:

Notify the airline during booking or at least 48 hours before departure.
Check if your ESA meets the airline’s size, breed, and behavior criteria.
Reserve a spot early to ensure your animal companion is approved.

What Documents Do You Actually Need in 2026?

Document requirements depend on the airline you’re flying with. For U.S. domestic flights with psychiatric service dogs, airlines cannot require a doctor’s letter. Instead, passengers generally need to submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form before travel.

For certain international airlines that still offer ESA programs, such as Volaris, LATAM, and Aeroméxico, travelers may need a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional dated within the last 12 months, along with any required veterinary health certificates and destination-specific entry documents.

Pro Tip:

Your ESA letter must come from a licensed mental health professional and clearly state the need for an emotional support animal. Make sure it includes the provider’s name, license number, and contact details.

ESA Behavior Rules During Air Travel

Most airlines will only allow well-behaved animals in the cabin. Emotional support animals must remain calm and non-aggressive throughout the trip.

Common behavior expectations:

No barking, growling, lunging, or disruptive behavior
Must stay inside the carrier or leashed at all times
Cannot obstruct aisles or other passengers’ space

Animals that display signs of aggression or excessive anxiety may be denied boarding—even if you have a valid ESA letter.

ESA Travel Health and Comfort Tips

To ensure your ESA is fit to fly:

Visit your vet before the trip for a pre-travel health check.
Avoid feeding your pet just before the flight to reduce motion sickness.
Acclimate your ESA to confined spaces by practicing with the carrier at home.
Bring familiar items like a blanket or toy to reduce stress during the journey.

Know the Airline ESA Pet Policy Before Booking

Because most U.S. airlines no longer recognize ESAs as service animals, they are now treated under standard pet policies. These vary by carrier, so research is essential.

Key things to check:

Cabin pet fees (usually $95–$150 each way)
Carrier size and weight limits
Approved routes and breed restrictions
Policies for international ESA travel, which may differ

Note:
Unlike psychiatric service dogs, ESAs are not legally guaranteed access to the cabin under the Air Carrier Access Act. They must comply with the same rules as pets.

How to Prepare Your ESA for a Flight?

Help your ESA adjust to flying with these tips:

Practice short stays inside the airline-approved carrier
Take short car rides to simulate the motion of a plane
Use calming aids (consult a vet) if your animal is prone to anxiety
Label the carrier with your contact information in case of emergencies

Respect Cabin Rules While Traveling With an ESA

Always be mindful of other passengers:

Keep your ESA leashed or inside the carrier at all times.
Do not allow them on the seat or into neighboring foot space.
Clean up after your animal and carry absorbent pads or wipes.

Showing respect for others’ comfort increases the likelihood that airlines will continue allowing ESAs as pets in cabin spaces.

Final Travel Checklist

Before your flight:

Confirm airline ESA policies.
Update your ESA letter and vet documents.
Ensure your pet fits in the approved carrier.
Arrive early for extra screening or paperwork.
Pack calming aids, food, and ID tags.

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 2026, research the latest airline policies, prepare your documentation, and consider alternative options if your preferred airline no longer accepts ESAs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Still Bring My Emotional Support Animal On a Plane in 2026?

Most U.S. airlines no longer accept ESAs as service animals. However, some international carriers and select routes (e.g., LATAM, Volaris) still allow ESAs under pet travel policies. Always confirm with your airline before booking.

What Documentation Do I Need To Fly With My Emotional Support Animal in 2026?

You’ll need:

An ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (dated within the past year)
Up-to-date vaccination records
A health certificate from a vet

Some airlines may request additional forms for international travel.

Can I Bring Multiple Emotional Support Animals On a Plane?

Most airlines limit one pet per passenger in the cabin. A second ESA may require cargo booking or a travel companion. Always check your airline’s specific rules.

What’s the Difference Between a Service Dog and an ESA?

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities and are protected under the ADA. ESAs provide emotional comfort but are not task-trained, so they aren’t considered service animals by airlines.

What Are My Options if My Airline Doesn’t Allow ESAs?

You can fly with your ESA as a pet, travel by car or train, or choose a carrier that accepts ESAs under pet policies (e.g., Volaris, LATAM). Check airline-specific pet rules before booking.

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

Yes. Most airlines ask for 48–72 hours’ notice when flying with an ESA. Advance notice helps the airline verify documents and prepare seating arrangements.

Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed on International Flights?

Some international airlines, such as LATAM, Volaris, or AeroMéxico, still accept ESAs on specific routes. Review airline-specific ESA policies and required documents before international travel.

Do Airlines Charge For Emotional Support Animals?

Yes. ESAs are now treated as pets. Airlines typically charge $75 to $200 per flight segment, depending on the route and carrier policies.

What Are The ESA Flight Rules in 2026?

In 2026, ESAs are treated as pets by most airlines. You must:

Book them in advance
Use an under-seat carrier
Pay applicable pet fees
Submit proper documents

Only psychiatric service dogs still qualify for free cabin travel under the ACAA.

Can ESA Dogs Fly in The Cabin?

Yes, if they meet pet carrier requirements and behave calmly. Dogs must fit under-seat in an airline-approved soft-sided carrier and comply with size and weight limits.

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 ESAs?

Yes. Airlines such as LATAM still allow ESAs on certain South American routes. Policies vary by destination, so confirm requirements for size, documentation, and in-cabin eligibility.

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 Do I Fly With a Psychiatric Service Dog on American, Delta, or Alaska?

These airlines allow PSDs with:

Documentation from a licensed professional
A behavior attestation form
Pre-flight notification (often 48 hours)

PSDs must remain under control at all times during travel.

Can a Psychiatric Service Dog Fly for Free?

Yes. Under federal law, psychiatric service dogs are allowed in the cabin with no extra fee, provided you submit valid documentation and the dog meets behavior and training requirements.

Can My Animal Companion Be Considered a Service Animal for Mental Health Reasons?

Only dogs trained to perform specific mental health-related tasks (like grounding during panic attacks) qualify as psychiatric service dogs. ESAs and untrained companions do not receive service animal protections under the ADA.

Can Miniature Horses Fly as Service Animals?

While the ADA recognizes miniature horses as service animals in some settings, airlines generally do not allow them due to size and safety limitations.

Are Psychiatric Service Dogs Allowed on Planes?

Yes. All U.S. airlines allow psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) to fly in the cabin at no extra charge under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). A valid PSD letter and behavior certification may be required.

Post Author

Prince Sharma

Prince Sharma is the Lead Content Strategist and Editorial Director with extensive experience in digital health communication, behavioral wellness, and Emotional Support Animal (ESA) laws. He is dedicated to producing accurate, evidence-based, and accessible content that helps readers make informed decisions about their mental and emotional well-being. Working closely with licensed mental health professionals, Prince ensures that all published content reflects the highest standards of reliability and clarity. His work focuses on bridging the gap between mental health education and practical support, empowering individuals to better understand the role of emotional support animals in enhancing quality of life.

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