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Delta Airlines Pet Policy is inclusive and accepts pets on many flights and under different travel arrangements. Flying with a pet on Delta is possible in the cabin or in the cargo compartment (currently under a temporary embargo). Pets flying with the airline must be confined, healthy, and of a certain age.
To add a pet to a Delta flight, contact the company and notify it of your pet’s travel needs. At the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter for a proper check-in.
Pet fees are applicable to Delta traveling with pets. The pet fees vary based on the destination, pet size, and type of flight accommodation.
Service animals are exempt from pet travel fees. Emotional support animals (ESAs), however, are not. ESAs used to travel for free, but since 2021, the Department of Transportation (DOT) updated its regulations and no longer recognizes ESAs as a separate pet category.
Under Delta Airlines pet policy, emotional support animals now travel as regular pets. They must be confined in carriers, and their owners are responsible for the travel expenses.
Under Delta’s current policy, service animals, specifically fully trained service dogs over four months old, are allowed on most routes without being subject to the airline’s usual restrictions on breed or size. These dogs are permitted to accompany their handlers in the cabin, and their travel is fully supported by the airline.
What is Delta Airlines Pet Policy?
Delta Airlines’ Pet Policy states that pets (small dogs, cats, and household birds) can fly in the cabin on domestic flights for a one-way fee collected at check-in if they meet the company’s age, health, size, and kennel requirements.
On international flights, dogs and cats are allowed to be checked as carry-on baggage and fly in the cabin if the owner provides all necessary documentation, like health and rabies certificates.
Delta pet policy also allows pets to be shipped in the cargo compartment. However, the airline has a temporary embargo on this service.
Delta is among the best-rated pet-friendly airlines in the US, but as specified above, it no longer allows ESAs* aboard its aircraft free of charge. In accordance with the new DOT and ACAA regulations, emotional support animals now fly as regular pets rather than assistance animals.
What Types of Pets does Delta Airlines Pet Policy Allow?
Delta Airlines permits a variety of pets to travel, depending on the type of booking and the travel method. For in-cabin flights, the airline accepts small dogs, cats, and household birds, provided they are able to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that slides beneath the seat in front of the passenger.
When cargo travel is available (currently under temporary embargo), Delta’s policy becomes more flexible and accommodates a broader range of species. In addition to dogs, cats, and household birds, animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits may also be accepted for transport in the cargo hold. All pets, regardless of travel type, must meet the airline’s health and safety requirements, and additional species-specific restrictions may apply based on the destination, seasonal weather conditions, or aircraft type.
For pet owners asking “Can dogs fly on Delta Airlines?” The answer is yes. Delta accepts dogs in the cabin and in the cargo compartment, depending on their size and breed.
Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dog and cat breeds, such as Pugs and Persians, are not allowed to travel as cargo because they are at high risk of health complications.
According to the Delta Airlines dog policy, to travel with Delta domestically, dogs need to be at least eight weeks old, and to travel internationally, over six months old.
Delta Airlines cat policy states that kittens must be at least eight weeks old to travel within the US and 16 weeks old for international flights. Pets must be over 15 weeks old if the flight includes entering the European Union.
What are the Requirements for Traveling with Pets Internationally on Delta Airlines?
Delta Airlines permits dogs and cats to accompany their owners on international flights, as long as they travel as carry-on pets. To qualify, pets must meet size and breed requirements, and they must remain in a well-ventilated, airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat for the duration of the flight.
While Delta previously offered cargo shipping for pets on international routes, this option is currently suspended due to a temporary embargo. As such, pet owners must rely solely on in-cabin travel for eligible dogs and cats when flying abroad. It’s also important to note that international destinations may have additional entry requirements, including vaccination records, health certificates, or quarantine protocols, which are the pet owner’s responsibility to review and comply with prior to travel.
Delta does not accept pets on flights to and from certain international destinations such as Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Dakar, Jamaica, Dubai, Iceland, Ireland, Barbados, South Africa, Colombia, Brazil, Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates.
The requirements for traveling with pets internationally with Delta Airlines are listed below.
- Health Certificate: A health certificate is mandatory for dogs and cats on international Delta flights. A licensed veterinarian is the only professional authorized to issue health certificates for travel purposes.
- Rabies Certificate: Rabies certificates are an official document confirming the pet has received rabies vaccines. A rabies certificate is necessary for most international flights.
- Import Permits: Depending on the type of pet and country of origin, Delta can request a CDC Dog Import Form receipt to import a pet to the United States.
- Vaccination Records: Delta pet travel international policy requires clear documents confirming the pet’s vaccination status. The type and number of mandatory vaccines can depend on the destination country.
- Carrier Specifications: Delta international pet policy suggests that pets must be in carriers that are of accepted dimensions. The pet carriers must be properly ventilated, made of leak-proof and non-collapsible materials, and have functional handles.
- Advance Reservations: It is essential to notify the airline in advance. Delta Airlines pet policy for international travel has restrictions on the total number of pets per flight, and arrangements are made on a first-come, first-served basis.
How much Does Delta Airlines Pet Policy Charge for Pet Travel?
Delta pet fees vary based on the destination, date of ticket issuance, and the type of travel arrangement selected for your pet.
For pets traveling in the cabin on domestic flights, the Delta pet in cabin fee is $95 for tickets purchased before April 8, 2025. For tickets issued on or after that date, the fee increases to $150.
On international routes, the Delta Airlines pet fee is generally $200. However, there is a notable exception for flights to Brazil: the fee is $75 for tickets bought before April 8, 2025, and $200 for tickets purchased on or after that date.
The Delta pet cargo cost is not fixed, as it depends on several factors including the pet’s destination, crate size, and when the ticket was issued. That said, cargo pet travel is currently under a global embargo. The only exception to this embargo is for U.S. Military personnel or Foreign Service Officers on official assignments.
It’s also important to note that fully trained service dogs over four months of age are exempt from all Delta pet fees and are permitted to travel at no additional charge.
What is the In-Cabin Pet Policy for Delta Airlines?
The in cabin Delta Airlines pet policy permits small pets, such as dogs, cats, and household birds, to travel with their owners on most domestic flights, and dogs and cats on select international routes. However, eligibility depends on several factors including the pet’s size, age, and ability to remain in an approved carrier throughout the journey.
According to Delta Airlines pet in cabin policy, only one pet is typically allowed per passenger, and in most cases, only one pet is allowed per carrier. Age requirements apply as well: pets must be at least eight weeks old for domestic travel, while international flights impose higher age limits depending on the species: dogs must be at least six months old, while cats have to be 16 weeks old.
Pet owners should also be aware of seating restrictions. Passengers traveling with in-cabin pets cannot be seated in bulkhead rows, exit rows, “no stowage” rows, Delta One or flat-bed seats, select rows on Airbus A330 aircraft, or certain seats on the Boeing 737‑900ER.
Additional criteria, such as carrier dimensions, weight limits, and health documentation will vary depending on the route and destination. It is essential to review these requirements in advance and contact Delta to confirm space availability, as pet bookings are limited and managed on a first-come, first-served basis. So, if you’re wondering “does Delta allow pets in cabin”, the answer is yes, but there are important guidelines to keep in mind.
What is Delta Airlines Pet Carrier Size Policy?
The Delta Airlines pet carrier size policy is designed to ensure both pet comfort and onboard safety. According to Delta, a pet carrier must be large enough to allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, while still being small enough to fit under the seat directly in front of the passenger. This requirement helps balance the pet’s physical well-being with cabin space limitations.
The maximum Delta pet carrier dimensions are 18 inches long by 11 inches wide by 11 inches high. These measurements apply to both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers, but soft-sided options are strongly recommended. A Delta approved pet carrier should be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and flexible enough to adjust to the space beneath the seat. For this reason soft-sided models are especially practical to fit underneath seats.
When choosing a carrier, pet owners should also be mindful of the Delta dog carrier size limitations. The carrier must not only comply with the airline’s dimension requirements, but also be proportionate to the size of the pet. Pets that cannot fit comfortably, meaning that they cannot stand or move around the carrier without touching the top or the sides, might not be accepted for in-cabin travel.
Is there a Pet Weight Limit for In-Cabin Travel on Delta Airlines?
No, there is no weight limit for pets for in-cabin travel on Delta Airlines. However, pets must be able to fit comfortably in the space in front of their owner’s feet to be allowed boarding.
Therefore, a size restriction exists, although there is no Delta pet weight limit. Pets flying with the airline must not occupy a seat, interfere with the personal space of other passengers, or block emergency exits and aisles.
Can you Bring more than One Pet In-Cabin According to Delta Airlines Pet Policy?
Yes, you can bring more than one pet in-cabin according to Delta Airlines pet policy. The general Delta pet in cabin policy allows one pet per passenger. However, there are exceptions to the rule. For example, two pets of the same breed and type, that are between two and six months old, are allowed to travel in the same pet carrier if small enough to fit comfortably.
Female cats and dogs are also permitted to travel with their unweaned litters (if the kittens or puppies are between 10 weeks and six months).
The in cabin Delta pet policy also has some additional restrictions. The airline accepts two pets per flight in First Class and BusinessElite and four pets in the Main Cabin.
Does Delta Airlines Restrict In-Cabin Pet Travel for Specific Destinations?
Yes, Delta Airlines restricts in-cabin pet travel for specific destinations. According to the rules of the destination, Delta does not allow pets in the cabin on several international flights.
Pets are not permitted on flights to and from Barbados, Australia, Colombia, Dubai, Iceland, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Ireland, Dakar, Hong Kong, Jamaica, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
Pets are allowed in the cabin on all domestic US flights, with the exception of Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Does Delta Airlines Pet Policy Require a Health Certificate for Pet Travel?
Yes, Delta Airlines pet policy requires health certificates for pet travel according to the final destination of a specific flight.
For pets traveling within the contiguous United States in the cabin, Delta does not mandate a health certificate. Exceptions apply to Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. However, certain states may have their own regulations requiring health documentation for incoming pets. It’s advisable to consult with the destination state’s Department of Agriculture or a licensed veterinarian to ensure compliance with local requirements.
When flying internationally, Delta requires a health certificate for pets, regardless of whether they are traveling in the cabin or as cargo. This certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian and is typically valid for 10 days from the date of issuance. Additionally, international destinations may have specific entry requirements, including vaccinations, microchipping, and import permits. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mandates that dogs entering the United States must be at least six months old, microchipped, and accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
For pets traveling as cargo, Delta requires a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. This applies to both domestic and international shipments. It’s important to note that Delta currently has a temporary embargo on pet cargo travel, with exceptions made for active U.S. military personnel and Foreign Service Officers.
While Delta does not require a health certificate for domestic in-cabin pet travel, it’s essential to verify any state-specific regulations. For international and cargo travel, a health certificate is mandatory, and additional documentation may be required based on the destination country’s regulations. Always consult with Delta and the destination country’s authorities well in advance to ensure all requirements are met.
Does Delta Airlines Pet Policy Allow Pets to Fly in Cargo?
Yes, Delta Airlines’ pet policy allows pets to fly in cargo. Delta enables cargo travel for shipment of pets for active U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Offices (FSO) traveling with active permanent change of station orders.
Pets traveling in cargo must be booked separately through the Delta Cargo Customer Service Center at 1‑800‑352‑2746. Additional fees apply, except for service animals that are too big to accompany the owner in the cabin. Service animals are exempt from the Delta pet cargo cost.
Delta requires a health certificate for pets flying cargo, and all pets must fly in specific containers that comply with the standards set by the International Air Transport Association Live Animals Regulations (IATA-LAR).
Cargo pet travel cannot be booked more than 14 days prior to the departure date. Shipped pets are not guaranteed to travel on the same flight as the owner or handler.
The Delta pet policy cargo has certain weather and breed limitations. The airline denies travel during weather extremes and brachycephalic breeds due to a high risk of health complications.
Are there Temperature or Weather Restrictions for Cargo Pet Travel with Delta Airlines?
Yes, there are temperature or weather restrictions for cargo pet travel with Delta Airlines. Delta does not accept pets in the cargo compartment if it is below 20°F or over 80°F.
If the temperature falls outside the range of 20°F to 80°F, anywhere along the route (including origin, transit, and destination), the pet will be denied boarding. Delta has the right to request a Certificate of Acclimation from the owner if the temperature is between 20°F and 45°F.
The temperature must be within the predicted limits the entire time that the pet is under Delta’s care, including two hours after arrival for domestic flights and four hours for international flights.
Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed on Delta Airlines?
No, emotional support animals are not allowed on Delta Airlines. ESAs fly as regular pets on all Delta flights and are subject to travel pet fees.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) updated its regulations in 2021 and no longer regards ESAs as service animals. The changes were made due to safety concerns and frequent misuse of the ESA status. Lacking a specific Delta Airlines ESA policy, emotional support animals flying in-cabin or cargo must comply with the airline’s general pet policy.
What is Delta Airlines Policy for Service Animals?
Delta Airlines service animal policy recognizes only dogs as legitimate service animals. This includes both physical service dogs and psychiatric service dogs, provided they are individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability.
According to the Delta Airlines service dog policy, trained service dogs are not required to travel in carriers. Instead, they may sit on the handler’s lap (if small enough) or in the floor space within the footprint of their assigned seat. However, service animals must never occupy a passenger seat, block aisles, or be seated in exit rows. Certain seating areas with space limitations—such as bulkhead and flat-bed seats—may also be restricted.
The airline allows up to two service dogs per passenger, and these animals do not count toward the standard carry-on limit. Additionally, they are exempt from Delta’s pet travel fees, making air travel more accessible for passengers who rely on these essential companions.
Delta requires that all service dogs be at least four months old and fully vaccinated to ensure safety and health compliance. Training is a crucial component of eligibility. As emphasized in the Delta Airlines service dog policy, service animals must be properly trained to behave appropriately in a busy and enclosed aircraft environment. Any disruptive or aggressive behavior may disqualify a dog from traveling in this capacity.
To fly with a service animal, passengers must complete the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form in advance, certifying the animal’s health, training, and behavior.
How to Add Service Animals to a Delta Airlines Flight?
The instructions on how to add service animals to a Delta Airlines flight are given below.
- Check Eligibility. Delta accepts fully trained dogs as service animals. Service dogs in training are not permitted unless they accompany the trainer on the route to the handler.
- Download and Complete Paperwork. Download and fill out the DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form and the DOT Relief Attestation Form (only required for flights over eight hours long).
- Submit a Service Dog Request. Submit the filled Delta service animal form to complete the request. Make sure you check the “Trained Service Animal” box in Step 4.
- Understand Service Animal Travel. Read the Delta Airline’s Service Animal policy to familiarize yourself and be prepared.
- Make a Flight Reservation. Make an official flight reservation once the service animal request has been accepted. When selecting seats, keep in mind that service dogs are not permitted to sit in the exit row.
- Prepare for the Flight. Pack the service dog’s essentials, such as bed, kennel, bowls, food, and an extra leash and collar. The animal’s essential items, under Delta policies, are exempt from baggage fees.
A service dog handler is responsible for their animals’ safety and their behavior when traveling with Delta. The owner must ensure that the service dog is well-behaved and always accompanied.
The dog must be tethered or harnessed and must not act aggressively or inappropriately toward other passengers or staff. The handler is required to have the DOT forms at hand at all times.
Do you need to Notify Delta Airlines in Advance for Flying with a Service Dog?
Yes, you need to notify Delta Airlines in advance for flying with a service dog. Delta requires official notification and submission of required documentation at least 48 hours prior to the flight.
The required documentation includes the US DOT Service animal Air Transportation Form and, for flights that are over eight hours long, the DOT Relief Attestation Form, too. The documents need to be submitted through Delta’s “My Trips” page.
For last-minute bookings, made less than 48 hours before departure, Delta allows passengers to present the completed service dog forms at the check-in counter or departure gate.
Service animals and handlers are not permitted to sit in the exit row and sometimes need to buy additional seats, which is why planning and notifying Delta in advance is recommended.
Do Service Dogs Fly for Free with Delta Airlines Pet Policy?
Yes, service dogs fly for free with Delta Airlines. Delta is committed to ensuring accessible travel for people with disabilities. Service dogs and their essential items travel free of charge with Delta. Pet beds and food are examples of such items.
Are there Breed Restrictions for Service Dogs on Delta Airlines?
No, Delta Airlines does not impose breed restrictions on service dogs. In compliance with current U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, Delta accepts all dog breeds as service animals, provided they meet the airline’s documentation, behavior, and training requirements.
This represents a significant policy shift. In the past, Delta enforced a ban on pit bull-type dogs, citing safety concerns. However, in response to updated DOT guidelines—specifically prohibiting airlines from discriminating against service animals based on breed—Delta has since revised its policy. As a result, pit bulls and similar breeds are now permitted to fly as fully trained service dogs, as long as they exhibit proper behavior and their handlers complete the necessary forms.
To travel as a service animal, the dog must be at least four months old and its handler must submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, attesting to the animal’s training, health, and behavior. This documentation is typically required at least 48 hours prior to departure.
It is important to note, however, that this policy only applies to trained service animals. Pit bull-type dogs and their mixes are still not permitted to travel as regular pets or emotional support animals under Delta’s standard pet travel policies. Delta no longer recognizes emotional support animals as a distinct category and treats them as regular pets, subject to all applicable size, breed, and transport restrictions.
In summary, while Delta Airlines’ pet policy does restrict certain breeds in the cabin or cargo when flying as pets, there are no breed-based restrictions for trained service dogs.
Can you Bring more than One Service Dog on a Delta Airline Flight?
Yes, you can bring more than one service dog on a Delta Airline flight. Delta allows passengers to fly with a maximum of two service animals. The primary condition to fly with more than one service dog is to provide proper accommodation for both animals. Either ensure there is enough floor or lap space to fit the two service dogs, or purchase an additional seat.
The other requirement is to complete and submit the DOT documents for each service animal at least 48 hours prior to departure.
Are there Size Restrictions for Flying with a Service Dog on Delta Airlines?
Yes, there are size restrictions for flying with a service dog on Delta Airlines. Under DOT’s and ACAA’s rules, airlines must accept service animals, however, size limits exist. For example, Delta says that service dogs must fit in the passenger’s foot space or on their lap.
Handlers must purchase an additional ticket, if one is available, for larger service animals. The animal’s size must still not exceed the space in front of the passenger’s seat.
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