American Airlines Makes Flying with Pets Easier and Cheaper
American Airlines has updated its pet policy, allowing passengers to bring their furry companions in full-size carry-on bags inside the cabin! Previously, travellers with pets had to pay a $150 fee to bring them on board, and only small items were allowed under the seat. For larger luggage, an additional $35 fee was charged.
Now, with the new policy, passengers can bring their pets in the cabin along with their regular carry-on bag or another personal item (but not both).
The old policy caused frustration for passengers who felt it was unfair to pay a pet fee but still not be allowed to bring their pets in the cabin without extra charges. The change took effect on Thursday.
Travel blogger Gary Leff was among the first to write about the new policy. He shared his past experience travelling with a Yorkshire terrier, expressing frustration over the dog counting as a carry-on despite paying the pet fee.
Leff believes the updated policy will reduce the temptation for travellers to falsely claim their pet is a service animal to avoid fees and bring an additional carry-on.
Travelling with pets requires careful planning and research, as there are factors that may restrict certain breeds from flying in the cabin. Airlines like Delta, Southwest, Alaska, and Frontier also allow pets on board.
