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Alaska Airlines is a pet-friendly U.S. air carrier that allows various animals to travel either in the cabin or in the climate-controlled cargo compartment of its aircraft. Through its Pet Connect program, Alaska Airlines also offers the option for pets to travel unaccompanied in cargo under safe, climate-controlled conditions.
In compliance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), service animals are allowed to fly in the cabin free of charge and are not required to be confined in a carrier.
Alaska Airlines pet policy covers both regular pets and emotional support animals. All pets, including ESAs, must travel in approved carriers and are subject to applicable pet travel fees and specific restrictions.
Under Alaska pet policy, size limitations apply for pets traveling in the cabin. For pets transported in the baggage compartment, additional rules apply, including size, breed, and weather-related restrictions.
Before booking your flight, it is important to review Alaska Airlines dog policy and general pet travel guidelines. Contact Alaska Airlines in advance and confirm the most up-to-date pet travel requirements.
What is Alaska Airlines Pet Policy?
Alaska Airlines’ pet policy is very inclusive, allowing a wide range of domesticated animals to travel either in cabin or in climate-controlled cargo.
Pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds are permitted to travel in the cabin, provided they are securely placed in an approved pet carrier—either soft-sided or hard-sided.
Alaska Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the U.S., allowing passengers to travel with up to two pets. Like all pet-friendly airlines, Alaska limits the total number of animals permitted on each flight. The first-class cabin allows a maximum of three pet carriers, while the main cabin can accommodate up to eight.
Alaska Airlines in compliance with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), must accommodate service dogs. Service dogs are exempt from the Alaska Airlines pet rules. They are allowed to travel outside carriers, and without paying fees.
Since 2021, emotional support animals are considered as regular pets when traveling, thus they are subjected to fees and must be kept in carriers. Understanding an airline’s pet policy is vital before making reservations.
What Types of Pets does Alaska Airlines Pet Policy Allow?
Alaska Airlines’ pet policy allows various types of pets, depending on the destination and the method of travel.
For international flights and flights to Hawaii, Alaska Airlines only permits dogs and cats. No other animals are accepted on these routes.
On domestic flights, the airline allows small dogs, house cats, domesticated rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin with their owners, as part of the in-cabin pet policy..
According to Alaska pet policy, other species are allowed to travel, but must be transported in the climate-controlled cargo compartment. Approved animals for cargo travel include dogs, cats, guinea pigs, ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, pot-bellied pigs, household birds, tropical fish, and non-poisonous reptiles.
Under Alaska Airlines dog policy and cat guidelines, all dogs and cats traveling, whether in the cabin or as cargo, must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned before travel.
What are the Requirements for Traveling with Pets Internationally on Alaska Airlines?
The requirements for traveling with pets internationally with Alaska Airlines are listed below.
- Health Documentation: International pet flights with Alaska require health certificates issued by licensed veterinarians, regardless of whether the pet travels in-cabin or cargo.
- Vaccinations: A proof of the pet’s rabies vaccination is necessary, especially if the pet is traveling from a high-risk country.
- Microchips: A 15-digit ISO pet microchip is required for pets flying internationally. The microchip is used for pet identification and verification of health records.
- Carrier Specifications: The pet carrier must meet certain criteria, such as being sturdy, well-ventilated, leak-proof, escape-proof, and of predetermined dimensions.
- Advance Reservations: Book preferably within three to seven business days of travel, especially if the flight includes transfers and arrangements with other airlines.
- Other Paperwork: Depending on the country of export, import, or transit, you may need additional permits and health declarations.
How much does Alaska Airlines Charge per Pet?
Alaska Airlines pet fee is $100 for in-cabin travel and $150 for pets in the baggage compartment. For travel within Alaska or for active-duty U.S. Military and dependents on orders, the baggage compartment fee is reduced to $100. Fees apply per direction, per pet carrier, and only on Alaska Airlines flights. Additional charges may apply when other airlines are included in the itinerary.
What is the In-Cabin Pet Policy for Alaska Airlines?
Alaska Airlines in-cabin pet policy permits dogs, cats, rabbits, and certain birds to travel for a $100 fee. Only dogs and cats are accepted on international flights and to Hawaii.
Pets must be at least eight weeks old, fully weaned, and accustomed to solid food. Passengers must book in-cabin pet travel in advance, as space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Alaska Airlines allows up to 3 pet carriers in First Class and 8 in the Main Cabin. Passengers must be 18 or older to travel with a pet and cannot sit in emergency exit or bulkhead rows.
Pet carriers must fit under the seat. Two pets of the same species and similar size may share one carrier. Passengers can bring a second carrier by purchasing an adjacent seat; each carrier counts as a carry-on item.
According to Alaska Airlines pet policy for in-cabin travel, pets with strong odors or disruptive behavior are not permitted in the cabin and must travel in the cargo compartment.
What is Alaska Airlines Pet Carrier Size Policy?
Alaska Airlines pet carrier size policy complies with USDA and IATA standards. Alaska pet carrier dimensions are 17 in x 11 in x 7.5 in for hard-sided, and 17 in x 11 in x 9.5 in for soft-sided options.
Alaska pet carrier size must be large enough for the pet to move comfortably but small enough to fit under the seat.
An Alaska approved pet carrier must fully enclose the pet, be clean, leak-proof, and free of damage. It must include absorbent bedding and provide adequate ventilation.
Is there a Weight Limit for Pets for In-Cabin Travel with Alaska Airlines?
Yes, there is a weight limit for pets for in-cabin travel with Alaska Airlines. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.
Alaska Airlines’ weight limit for dogs to fly in cabin is similar to other U.S. pet-friendly airlines. Carriers must fit under the seat, and pets cannot be booked as cabin seat baggage.
Can you Bring more than One Pet In-Cabin Under Alaska Airlines’ Pet Policy?
Yes, you can bring more than one pet in-cabin for Alaska Airlines’ pet policy. According to the Alaska Airlines in-cabin pet policy, each passenger may bring two pet carriers if they purchase an adjacent seat. Additionally, up to two pets of the same species and similar size (e.g., two dogs or two cats) may share one carrier, provided they fit comfortably and without distress.
Alaska Airlines dog in cabin and cat in cabin policies require that pets remain inside their carriers for the entire duration of the flight.
Does Alaska AirlinesPet Policy Require a Health Certificate for Pet Travel?
Alaska Airlines’ pet policy requires a health certificate for pet travel in the cargo department. The certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure. For round trips on the same ticket, the certificate is valid for 30 days; if booked separately, a new certificate is needed within 10 days of each leg.
Pets flying in-cabin do not need a health certificate.
Alaska Airlines accepts printed copies, or electronic health certificates with digital signatures. For international pet travel, additional health documents or permits may be required based on the destination.
Does Alaska Airlines Pet Policy Allow Pets to Fly in Cargo?
Yes, Alaska Airlines’ pet policy allows pets to fly in cargo. Under the Alaska Airlines pet in cargo policy, pets may travel in the plane’s climate-controlled baggage and cargo compartments.
Restrictions apply based on weight, breed, and weather conditions. The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 150 pounds. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed breeds are not permitted in cargo.
Pet cargo travel is also prohibited during periods when temperatures at departure or arrival locations exceed 85°F, or during certain times of the year.
A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required and dated within 10 days of outbound travel and within 30 days of return.
Alaska Airlines pet cargo cost is $150 per pet, one way. A reduced fee of $100 applies to Alaska-only travel, active duty military, and their dependents.
How to Travel with a Pet in Cargo on Alaska Airlines?
The instructions on how to travel with a pet on cargo on Alaska Airlines are given below.
- Book in Advance. Alaska offers a limited number of spots for pets in cargo. Therefore, it is essential to make a reservation in advance. Either call Alaska Air reservations at 1-800-252-7522 or start a chat with a reservation agent.
- Prepare a Health Certificate. Alaska Airlines pet in cargo policy mandates health certificates for all traveling pets. The health certificate must be issued by a licensed vet and be presented in a printed or electronic version.
- Update Rabies Vaccination. Pets traveling with Alaska Airlines must be up to date on their rabies shots. The company accepts combined health and rabies certificates. Puppies and kittens that are less than three months old are exempt from the rabies shot requirement.
- Assure Kennel Specifications. Alaska Airlines pet cargo crate requirements state that the carrier must be of certain dimensions, leak-proof, non-collapsible, escape-proof, well-ventilated, and feature food and water bowls attached to the inside.
What are the Temperature and Seasonal Restrictions for Pet Travel on Alaska Airlines?
The temperature and seasonal restrictions for pet travel on Alaska Airlines are weather-related limits designed to protect the animal’s welfare.
Alaska Airlines pet in cargo travel is permitted when the temperatures at both departure and arrival locations range between 45°F and 85°F.
Pets are not transported in cargo if temperatures exceed 85°F on the day of travel, unless the owner provides a veterinarian-issued certificate of acclimation confirming the pet’s tolerance to higher temperatures.
In addition to Alaska Airlines pet cargo temperature limitations, seasonal restrictions such as summer heat embargoes may also prevent pet travel during certain times of the year.
What is Alaska Airlines Pet Policy for Emotional Support Animals?
Alaska Airlines pet policy for emotional support animals states that ESAs are not accepted to travel in the cabin for free.
Alaska ESA policy was updated following 2021 rule changes by the US Department of Transportation (DOT), which no longer recognizes emotional support animals as service animals.
Under the current Alaska emotional support animal policy, ESAs are treated as regular pets, requiring compliance with specific restrictions and payment of applicable pet travel fees.
Emotional support animals may travel with Alaska Airlines in a carrier in the cabin or as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
Are ESA Letters still Required to Fly with ESAs on Alaska Airlines?
No, ESA letters are no longer required to fly with ESAs on Alaska Airlines. The US Department of Transportation updated its policy removing emotional support animals from coverage under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). As a result, ESAs are no longer allowed to fly in the cabin for free, and ESA letters for travel are now redundant.
Alaska Airlines and other US-based carriers no longer recognize emotional support animal letters. ESAs must now travel under standard pet policies and meet all applicable documentation requirements.
Can Alaska Airlines Deny an ESA?
Yes, Alaska Airlines can deny an ESA. U.S. airlines may refuse ESAs if they do not meet specific requirements, as the Air Carrier Access Act no longer protects ESAs during air travel.
Alaska denies emotional support animals that are aggressive, disruptive, or pose safety risks. An ESA may also be rejected if confined in an unsuitable pet carrier. Like pets, ESAs can be denied due to breed or size restrictions.
If your ESA is denied, you have options. Speak with the Alaska Airlines’ Complaints Resolution Official (CRO) if the denial seems unfair. Alternatively, reclassify the ESA as a psychiatric service dog (PSD) or use a pet relocation service.
If eligible, apply for PSD certification. Psychiatric service dogs can fly in the cabin at no cost. Pet relocation services help book flights and manage travel logistics to ensure safe ESA transport.
What is Alaska Airlines Pet Policy for Service Animals?
Alaska Airlines officially accepts fully trained service dogs aboard their aircrafts. A service dog is specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with qualifying disabilities.
While psychiatric service dogs are covered, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) does not extend to service dogs in training.
According to Alaska Airlines service dog requirements, there are no breed or size restrictions. However, service dogs must fit within the handler’s foot space and must not occupy seats, tray tables, or block emergency exits or aisles.
Passengers may travel with up to two service dogs. Under Alaska Airlines service animal policy, all service dogs must behave appropriately at the airport and onboard.
Additional documentation is required for passengers flying to Hawaii or internationally with service animals.
What is the Procedure for Flying with a Service Dog on Alaska Airlines?
The procedure for flying with a service dog on Alaska Airlines is explained below.
- Check Service Animal Eligibility. Alaska Airlines accepts fully trained service dogs and psychiatric service dogs. Each passenger is allowed to bring up to two service dogs.
- Complete the DOT Service Animal Form. Fill in and submit the Service Animal Form from the US Department of Transportation. The form is an official document attesting to the service dog’s health, training, and behavior.
- Receive the Service Animal ID (SVAN ID). Once the DOT’s form is approved, you will receive an email containing the service animal’s ID number. You can use the so-called SVAN ID for future bookings.
- Choose the Right Seat. Passengers with service animals are not allowed to sit in the emergency exit row. Alaska recommends booking a window seat so that the service dog is out of the way and safe from foot traffic.
- Prepare for the Flight. Pack the dog’s essentials and have them on hand. Examples include leashes, collars, harnesses, collapsible bowls, treats, and plastic bags.
Service dog handlers must maintain control of their animals and are responsible for their behavior at all times.
Alaska Airlines has the right to deny service dogs that display disruptive behavior, such as excessive barking, aggression, inappropriate urination, uncontrolled movement, jumping on guests, or ignoring commands.
Do you need to Notify Alaska Airlines in Advance for Flying with a Service Dog?
Yes, you need to notify Alaska Airlines in advance if you’re flying with a service dog. To do so, complete and submit the US Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form (DOT Service Animal Form).
The official form verifies your service dog’s health, training, and behavior. It serves as both notification to the airline and proof of the dog’s service animal status.
For flights booked more than 48 hours in advance, submit the form online via Alaska’s travel partner, Service Animal Travel Solutions (SATS).
If the flight is within 48 hours, print and complete the form, then submit it in person to an Alaska Airlines agent at the gate on the day of departure.
Do Service Dogs Fly for Free with Alaska Airlines?
Yes, service dogs fly for free with Alaska Airlines. The company exempts service animals and allows them to travel at no cost.
Alaska’s pet travel fees apply to regular pets and emotional support animals. However, they do not refer to fully trained service dogs.
Are there Breed Restrictions for Service Dogs on Alaska Airlines?
No, there are no breed restrictions for service dogs on Alaska Airlines. Alaska Airlines accepts all trained service dogs on its flights, regardless of breed.
Emotional support animals, on the other hand, are subject to breed restrictions. Breed-related limitations also exist under Alaska’s general pet policy. Alaska does not allow brachycephalic pets to travel in the baggage compartment due to potential health concerns.
Can you Bring more than One Service Dog on an Alaska Airline Flight?
Yes, you can bring more than one service dog on an Alaska Airlines flight. Alaska Airlines allows up to two service dogs per passenger. The primary condition is that the two service animals must not exceed the handler’s personal seat and foot space.
If the service animals are too large to fit, you’ll need to book an extra seat or travel during non-peak hours, when the flight is less full.
Are there Size Restrictions for Flying with a Service Dog on Alaska Airlines?
No, there are no size restrictions for flying with a service dog on Alaska Airlines. The company, however, has rules on where the service animal can sit based on its size.
The service animal must fit within the handler’s space at the foot of their seat. It can stay either on the floor beneath the seat, or if smaller than an infant, on the passenger’s lap.
Service animals are exempt from the Alaska Airlines pet weight limit and are permitted to travel in the cabin regardless of size and weight.
Are Pets Allowed on Connecting Flights with Alaska Airlines?
Yes, pets are allowed on connecting flights with Alaska Airlines. Pets traveling in cargo are automatically transferred to the next flight if it’s operated by Alaska Airlines, SkyWest Flight Series 3300-3499, or Horizon Air.
The maximum layover time for pets is four hours. For longer connections, owners must request access to provide food and water.
If the connecting flight is with another airline, passengers must claim and recheck their pet.
Can you Travel with an Unaccompanied Pet on Alaska Airlines?
Yes, you can travel with an unaccompanied pet on Alaska Airlines through its Pet Connect program, which allows pets to fly in the cargo hold without an accompanying passenger.
This service is available on select flights and subject to requirements,, including documentation, breed restrictions, and temperature limits..
Pets must have a vet-issued health certificate and travel in carriers that are sturdy, ventilated, leak-proof, and comfortable. Due to the health risks, short-nosed dog and cat breeds are not allowed in the baggage compartment under the Pet Connect program..
The service operates only when temperatures at both departure and arrival airports are between 45°F and 85°F. Customers in need of Alaska’s Pet Connect services can make reservations between 30 days and 24 hours before departure.
No pet deposit 
Travel with your PSD at no cost 
No pet rent fee 
Easy ESA letter renewal plans 
No size or breed restrictions 
Continued care from your licensed professional