Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

When it comes to traveling with pets, Alaska Airlines has established itself as one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the United States. With clear guidelines, transparent pricing, and multiple options for pet travel, Alaska ensures both owners and animals experience a safe and comfortable journey.

In this detailed guide, we will explain the Alaska Airlines Pet Policy, covering in-cabin pet travel, checked baggage options, pet cargo rules, size limits, and associated costs. Whether you’re flying with a cat, dog, or small animal, this article provides everything you need to know before booking your next flight with Alaska Airlines.

Quick Summary of Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

• Alaska Airlines Pet Policy allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage.
• The pet travel fee for in-cabin pets is $100 USD each way.
• Pets must fit comfortably in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
• Larger pets can travel in Alaska Air Cargo under specific weather and breed restrictions.
• Up to two pets of the same species may share one carrier if they meet size and weight limits.
• Passengers are responsible for ensuring their pets meet health certificate and vaccination requirements.
• Certain breeds (snub-nosed dogs and cats) and extreme weather conditions may restrict travel.
• Advanced reservations are strongly recommended since pet spots are limited per flight.

Understanding Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

The Alaska Airlines Pet Policy is designed to ensure safe and humane transport for pets while maintaining comfort for all passengers. The airline offers two main options for traveling with animals:

1. Pets in the Cabin (In-Cabin Travel)
2. Pets in Checked Baggage or Cargo Hold

Each option has specific eligibility criteria, size and weight limits, and health documentation requirements.

Alaska Airlines In-Cabin Pet Travel Policy

Alaska Airlines Pet Travel in-cabin option is ideal for small pets who can comfortably travel with their owners.

Key Requirements for In-Cabin Pet Travel:

• Allowed animals: Cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds.
• Pet carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
• The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 20 lbs (9 kg).
• Each passenger may bring one pet carrier in the cabin.
• Maximum of two pets of the same species may share one carrier.
• Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight.

In-Cabin Pet Fees:

• $100 USD each way per pet carrier.
• Payable during booking or at check-in.

Carrier Dimensions:

• Soft-sided carrier: Up to 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″ (43 x 28 x 24 cm).
• Hard-sided carrier: Up to 17″ x 11″ x 7.5″ (43 x 28 x 19 cm).

Seating Restrictions:

• Passengers with pets cannot sit in exit rows or bulkhead seats.
• Window seats are often recommended for pet owners for comfort and privacy.

Checked Baggage Pet Policy

If your pet is too large to fit under the seat, Alaska Airlines Pet Policy allows transport as checked baggage on the same flight as the owner, provided temperature and conditions are safe.

Eligibility:

• Only cats and dogs are allowed in checked baggage.
• The pet must be at least 8 weeks old and healthy for travel.
• Each passenger may check up to 2 animals.

Checked Pet Fee:

• $150 USD each way per pet.

Carrier Requirements:

• Must be IATA-approved hard-sided kennel.
• Must allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Kennels must be secure and ventilated on three sides.

Temperature and Breed Restrictions:

• Snub-nosed breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, Persians) are not accepted as checked baggage due to breathing risks.
• Travel may be restricted during extreme weather (below 45°F or above 85°F).

Alaska Airlines Pet Cargo Travel

For pets not traveling with their owners or exceeding cabin or checked size limits, Alaska Air Cargo offers safe animal transport through Alaska Pet Connect.

Highlights of Alaska Pet Cargo:

• Handles pets year-round with temperature-controlled facilities.
• Requires advance booking (at least 24 hours before departure).
• Only cats and dogs are accepted through cargo.
• A health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is mandatory.

Cargo Travel Fees:

• Fees depend on the pet’s weight and kennel size, typically ranging from $200 to $400 USD.

Alaska Airlines Pet Health and Documentation Requirements

Before traveling, ensure your pet complies with Alaska Airlines’ health and documentation standards:

• A valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian dated within 10 days of travel.
• Proof of rabies vaccination (required for all dogs and cats over 3 months).
• Destination-specific requirements (especially for Hawaii or international flights).

For Hawaii, pets must meet strict quarantine and documentation rules due to rabies-free status.

Pet Reservations and Booking Tips

Because Alaska Airlines limits the number of pets on each flight, early booking is critical.

• Only up to 4 pets are allowed in the cabin per flight (one per first-class section).
• Call Alaska Airlines Reservations at 1-800-252-7522 to confirm pet space before booking.
• Always arrive early (at least 2 hours before departure) for pet check-in.

Prohibited and Restricted Animals

Alaska Airlines maintains restrictions for the safety and comfort of all travelers. The following animals are not permitted:

• Reptiles, amphibians, spiders, and insects
• Ferrets and rodents
• Aggressive or untrained animals
• Snub-nosed breeds (Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Pugs, Persians, etc.)

Benefits of Traveling with Pets on Alaska Airlines

Flying with Alaska Airlines gives pet owners peace of mind thanks to a pet-friendly infrastructure.

• Transparent pricing and easy booking
• Trained staff for pet handling
• Year-round pet cargo services
• Flexible options for small and large pets
• High safety and welfare standards

Tips for a Smooth Alaska Airlines Pet Travel Experience

1. Book early to reserve a pet spot on your flight.
2. Label the carrier with your contact information.
3. Avoid sedating pets unless advised by a vet.
4. Feed and hydrate your pet at least 4 hours before travel.
5. Arrive early for check-in and security screening.
6. Keep documentation handy for quick verification.

Final Thoughts

The Alaska Airlines Pet Policy demonstrates the airline’s strong commitment to safe, reliable, and compassionate pet travel. Whether you choose to fly your pet in-cabin, as checked baggage, or via Alaska Pet Cargo, understanding the guidelines and planning ahead ensures a smooth and worry-free journey.

For frequent flyers and pet owners, Alaska Airlines remains one of the most trusted carriers for pet travel in North America.

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