Home » Frontier Airlines ESA & PSD Policy

Frontier Airlines PSD and Emotional Support Animal Policy Guide.

Frontier Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals. Only trained psychiatric service dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin free of charge. Passengers must submit the DOT Service Animal Form 48 hours before departure. All other animals must travel under standard pet policies and fees.
Published
April 11, 2024
Last Updated
June 11, 2026
dr. perry payne

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

dr. perry payne
Legal Accuracy Reviewed by:
Dr. Perry Payne
Attorney & Physician with expertise in health law and disability policy
Prince Sharma
Author
Prince Sharma
Lead Content Strategist and Editorial Director

If you rely on psychiatric service dogs or emotional support animals and plan to travel with Frontier Airlines, it is essential to understand their policies thoroughly. With the proper documentation and adherence to Frontier’s pet policy, you can ensure a stress-free and comfortable journey for yourself and all passengers aboard. Moreover, by complying with their pet policy, you can avoid potential travel delays or complications.
Whether you are an experienced traveler or embark on your first trip with your support animal, our Frontier Airlines pet policy guide will provide you with all the necessary information, from paperwork to in-flight protocols, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free flight.

Frontier Airlines Policies For ESA and PSD

Key Points

  • Does Frontier Airlines Allow Psychiatric Service Dogs?
  • How To Fly With A Psychiatric Service Dog In Frontier Airlines?
  • What Types Of Animals Does Frontier Airlines Accept As Service Animals?
  • Does Frontier Airlines Accept Emotional Support Animals?
  • What Type Of Pet Is Allowed On Frontier Airlines?

Does Frontier Airlines Allow Psychiatric Service Dogs?

Under the guidelines from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Frontier pet policy allows you to travel with a service animal or psychiatrist service dog. However, your psychiatric service dog must undergo complete training to perform tasks that benefit your disability.

What Paperwork Does Frontier Require for a Service Dog?

Under current U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, Frontier Airlines cannot require passengers to present a medical letter or psychiatric service dog (PSD) letter at the airport. Instead, the airline relies on the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form.

Passengers traveling with a service dog must complete this form and submit it through Frontier’s Service Animal Portal at least 48 hours before departure. The form serves as a legal self-certification confirming that the dog is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability, is in good health, and can behave appropriately in a public travel environment.

To help ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers should complete all required paperwork before their flight and review Frontier’s latest service animal policies before departure.

What Is A Psychiatric Service Dog Letter, And How Do You Get It?

A psychiatric service dog letter is an official letter by a healthcare professional that allows a service dog to accompany you on flights, at home, or in public places. The professional writes this recommendation letter after a therapy session to confirm that you have a disability and that the presence of a service dog is necessary to mitigate the effects of that disability.

To qualify for a PSD letter, you must first be diagnosed with a disability by a healthcare professional. There is no defined list of medical conditions, but a condition must substantially limit one or more major life activities, such as walking, seeing, hearing, or performing manual tasks. The qualification is based on the judgment of your doctor.

It’s simple to get a PSD letter.

  • Create an account on Fast ESA Letter and book an appointment.
  • After that, connect with a healthcare professional and discuss your need for a service animal.
  • If approved, you will get your PSD letter based on the consultation.

How To Fly With A Psychiatric Service Dog In Frontier Airlines?

Fill out the DOT’s Service Animal Air Transportation Form and upload the completed form to the Frontier Service Animal portal.
You can also mail to
Attention Frontier Customer Care
4545 Airport Way
Denver, CO 80239
Remember some points while submitting the form.

  • If you book your travel 48 hours or more before departure, you must submit the form at least 48 hours before departure.
  • If you book travel less than 48 hours before departure, you can present the form at the check-in counter or departure gate.

Please keep a copy of the Frontier service animal air transportation form, as Frontier team members may request it at various points during your travel.
Take the PSD letter with you on your travels. Authorities use your PSD letter to verify your need for animal-assisted therapy.

What Types Of Animals Does Frontier Airlines Accept As Service Animals?

Frontier pet policy recognizes fully trained service dogs as eligible service animals. Other animals, such as miniature horses, do not fall under the Frontier dog policy for service animals.

Is There A Limit To The Number Of Psychiatric Service Dogs Allowed To Accompany You?

Frontier Airlines’ pet policy limits each passenger to traveling with a maximum of two service animals. Service dogs cannot be seated on the passenger’s lap unless they are no larger than a 2-year-old child. Also, travel is allowed once the animal is at least four months old.

Does Frontier Airlines Accept Service Animals In Training?

A psychiatric service dog must be fully trained to assist you with your disability; Frontier Airlines does not accept service animals in training. Moreover, your animal must be trained to behave appropriately in a public setting and must always be under your control using a harness or leash. It applies both in the airport and on the aircraft.

What Is The Frontier Airline Pet Fee For Flying With A Service Animal?

Frontier Airlines does not charge a pet fee for traveling with service animals in accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). However, you must notify Frontier Airlines in advance about your service animal and comply with any documentation or requirements outlined by the airline.

Can I Bring My Psychiatric Service Dog On International Flights With Frontier Airlines?

Frontier Airlines permits service dogs on flights to and from all domestic and international destinations. However, each country may have its own set of regulations, laws, and procedures regarding the acceptance of service animals. Therefore, it’s recommended that you educate yourself about the laws regarding service animals in your visiting country. This will help you enjoy a hassle-free traveling experience.

Does Frontier Airlines Accept Emotional Support Animals?

Frontier Airlines does not recognize emotional support or non-task-trained animals as service animals. You can still travel with your ESA, but it will be considered a pet and subject to additional procedures and fees.

What is The Frontier Airline Pet Fee?

Frontier Airlines currently charges a non-refundable pet fee of $150 each way per pet container for pets traveling in the cabin. Because airline policies and fees can change, travelers should always verify the latest information before booking their flight.

Frontier Pet Check-In Requirements

Passengers traveling with a pet cannot use online or mobile check-in. Instead, they must check in at the airport ticket counter with a Frontier representative. During the check-in process, airline staff will inspect the pet carrier to ensure it meets Frontier’s size and travel requirements before issuing a boarding pass.

Arriving at the airport early is recommended to allow sufficient time for the pet verification process and any additional check-in requirements.

What Are The Frontier Airlines Pet Carrier Size Requirements?

When traveling with a pet on Frontier Airlines, the pet carrier counts as your entire personal item or carry-on allowance. Your pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier.
Frontier allows the following maximum carrier dimensions:

  • Hard-sided carriers: 18″ L x 14″ W x 8″ H
  • Soft-sided carriers: 18″ L x 14″ W x 11″ H

Many travelers prefer soft-sided carriers because they can compress slightly to fit under the seat while still providing adequate space for the pet.

Frontier Route Restrictions for Pets

Frontier only permits standard pets on domestic flights within the United States. Pets such as cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds are not allowed on international routes.

For international travel, only fully trained service dogs that comply with applicable CDC and destination-country requirements may be permitted to enter or leave the United States on Frontier-operated flights. Travelers should review all current regulations before making travel arrangements.

What Type Of Pet Is Allowed On Frontier Airlines?

Frontier Airlines’s pet policy only allows certain animals in the cabin. You can carry domesticated dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, or small household birds within the United States. Dogs and cats must be a minimum of 8 weeks of age.
Frontier pet policy restricts certain pets, such as:

  • Large birds, including parrots, macaws, and cockatoos.
  • Rodents, including mice, rats, and squirrels
  • Beavers
  • Ferrets
  • Reptiles
  • Amphibians
  • Spiders and insects.

Remember, for international traveling, the airlines will consider only domesticated dogs and cats as Frontier flying with pets.

What Is Frontier Airlines’ Policy For Traveling With Pets On International Flights?

If you are taking an international flight, check the applicable laws, customs, and other governmental regulations of the country, state, or territory where you want to travel with your pet. It is advisable to travel with your pet’s health certificate.

Essential Things To Consider While Flying With Pets

  • Pets can accompany you in the cabin on all domestic Frontier and international flights to/from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
  • You may not sit with the pet in row one or exit row.
  • Your pet must remain in the pet carrier during the flight.
  • Your pet must be on a leash during the airport or check-ins.
  • If your pet is disruptive, you must soothe it without removing it from the pet container.
  • They may ask you not to provide food or water to your pet while inside the aircraft.
  • Your pet will not get oxygen in the event of an emergency.

Do I Need A Health Certificate For My Pet?

Frontier Airlines does not require a health certificate for pets traveling within the U.S.However, you need a certificate if your traveling state needs it. Many states or countries need your pet’s health certificate. Moreover, they may also require vaccination certification. The requirement may vary from country to country. For example, your certificate must be within 30 days of entry into Puerto Rico, 10 days of entry into the U.S., 15 days of entry into the Dominican Republic, 14 days of entry into Costa Rica, and 5 days of entry into Mexico.

When Can Frontier Airlines Disallow My Psychiatric Service Dog or Pet Fly With Me?

If your animal engages in disruptive behavior or directly threatens the health or safety of others, the airline may deny your service animal to fly. Disruptive behavior may include:

  • Excessive barking or growling that you cannot effectively control.
  • Jumping on passengers or cabin crew.
  • Aggressive behavior towards other Frontier Airlines animals or passengers.
  • Frequent urination or defecation in the cabin.
  • Any sign of illness that could affect the health of other passengers.

Frontier Airlines reserves the right to deny boarding to any psychiatric service dog that exhibits such disruptive behavior, as it may compromise the safety and comfort of other passengers onboard.

Experts Tips For Traveling With A Psychiatric Service Dog Or Pets With Frontier Airlines.

Following these expert tips can help ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for you and your psychiatric service dog with Frontier Airlines.

  • Educate yourself on the Frontier Airlines pet policy and Frontier service animal policy.
  • Contact Frontier Airlines in advance to inform them about your psychiatric service dog and to address any questions or concerns you may have.
  • For psychiatric service dogs, ensure they are well-trained to behave appropriately in various travel environments.
  • For pets, consider acclimating them to their travel carrier or crate beforehand.
  • Arrange all necessary documentation, including a PSD letter or your pet’s health records.
  • Prioritize your psychiatric service dog’s comfort and safety during the journey by providing them with blankets or toys.
  • Always follow the instructions provided by airline staff.
  • If possible, book direct flights to minimize stress for both you and your psychiatric service dog or pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Prepare My Service Dog For A Flight With Frontier Airlines?

Familiarize your animal with travel carriers and airport environments. Ensure all documentation, including health records or DOT forms, is up to date. Notify Frontier Airlines in advance for smooth travel arrangements.

Can I Travel With More Than One Service Animal On Frontier Airlines?

Yes, Frontier Airlines permits passengers to travel with up to two service animals, provided all required documentation is submitted and approved. Both animals must be fully trained and able to fit safely within your seating area. They must also behave appropriately during the flight and at the airport.

Are Psychiatric Service Dogs Allowed In All Seating Areas On Frontier Airlines Flights?

Psychiatric service dogs are allowed in the cabin but cannot occupy exit rows or the first row. This is due to safety regulations that require these rows to remain unobstructed during emergencies. Frontier Airlines ensures your service dog can accompany you within the space allocated to your seat.

What Happens If I Don’t Submit The Required Dot Form In Advance?

If you fail to submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before your flight, you can still provide it at the airport during check-in or at the departure gate. However, this might result in delays, as the airline will need to verify your documents on-site. Submitting forms early is strongly recommended to avoid travel disruptions.

Does Frontier Airlines Accept ESA Letters For Emotional Support Animals?

Frontier Airlines no longer accepts ESA letters for emotional support animals as valid documentation for in-cabin travel as service animals. ESAs are treated as pets and are subject to pet policies, including carrier requirements and fees. Only task-trained service animals qualify for free travel in the cabin.

Are Service Animals Allowed To Eat Or Drink During Frontier Airlines Flights?

Yes, service animals can eat or drink during flights, but it’s best to minimize feeding during shorter flights to reduce disruptions. Bring collapsible water bowls or small portions of food to meet your dog’s needs without causing a mess in the cabin.

Can Frontier Airlines Charge Additional Fees For Service Animals On Connecting Flights?

No, Frontier Airlines does not charge additional fees for service animals on any leg of a connecting flight. Service animals are exempt from pet fees under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) as long as they meet all the requirements for in-cabin travel.

What Are The Vaccination Requirements For Pets Traveling On Frontier Airlines?

Pets must have current rabies vaccinations and meet other health requirements depending on their destination. For international travel, additional vaccines or health certificates may be required. Review the regulations of your destination well in advance to ensure compliance.

Can I Request Special Seating Arrangements For Traveling With A Service Dog?

While you cannot request seats in exit rows or the first row, you can inform Frontier Airlines of your need for extra space to accommodate your service dog. The airline may adjust seating to ensure your comfort and the safety of all passengers during the flight.

Post Author

Patricia Thompson

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.

Related Articles