6 Airlines That Allow Large Dogs in Cabins (Flying Together With Your Pet)

Very few airlines let truly large dogs ride in the cabin. On major US carriers such as Spirit, Southwest, American and Delta, a pet dog can only fly in the cabin if it fits in a carrier under the seat in front of you, which in practice means small to medium-small dogs. Semi-private carriers like JSX and Tradewind Aviation are the main options for bigger dogs, usually if you buy an extra seat.

If you’re a certified fur parent, no doubt one of your dreams is to go on an adventure with your canine across the globe. Below, we go through what each of these six airlines allows, so you can see which one fits your dog’s size. Pet policies change often, so always confirm the current rules with the airline before you book.

Which Airlines Actually Allow Large Dogs In Their Cabin?

Bringing your beloved canine on your next vacation won’t be out of reach anymore, so long as you choose the right airline. But, with all kinds of plane companies out there, how will you find the right one that can accommodate your pet’s size?

We’ve got your back in this one, so check out which airlines in the USA accept bigger dogs, and what limits apply:

1Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines is one of the most budget-friendly carriers in America, making it popular for travelers far and wide. It also has one of the more generous in-cabin weight limits among US budget airlines.

To elaborate, Aviation Nepal states that Spirit allows passengers to bring canines so long as they are 40 pounds or less. Note that the mentioned measurement is the total weight of both your dog and the required carrier, and the carrier still has to fit under the seat in front of you, so this works for medium-small dogs rather than truly large breeds.

Here are some important things to remember when flying via Spirit Airlines together with your dog:

3 Things to keep in mind when flying via Spirit Airlines

• When traveling with your canine in a cabin, your pet doesn't need a medical certificate.
• For the whole duration of the trip, your pet should stay inside its crate.
• Except for the front row and the seats closest to the exit doors, you are free to sit wherever you like.

2Southwest

Yet another pet-friendly airline that often comes up for bigger dogs is Southwest. Based on Oxford Pets, the company has no maximum limit on a canine’s weight. However, your dog must fit comfortably in an approved carrier that goes under the seat in front of you, so the carrier size is the real limit.

Check out some policies you should follow when opting to fly with Southwest together with your canine:

3 Things to keep in mind when flying via Southwest

• The crate where your canine will stay should be bite-proof and well-ventilated. It should also be leak-proof, with absorbent materials on the sides.
• The crate or kennel you're going to bring will be considered a carry-on bag.
• If you're traveling with your dog, remember that you're not allowed to book seats close to the exit. Similarly, seats without under-seat storage are also off-limits.

3American Airlines

Another air carrier pet parents often look at is American Airlines. Like the other major airlines, it allows small pets to stay with their owners in the cabin, as long as the carrier fits under the seat in front of you.

Jetline Marvel lists American as an option for large dog breeds, with a limit of 100 pounds (including the weight of the crate). Be aware that this limit applies to pets flying as checked baggage, not in the cabin, and American has restricted checked pets to specific groups, such as active-duty military personnel. Check the current policy before you plan around it.

Below are some pointers to remember if you’re going to choose American Airlines for traveling with your big dog:

3 Things to keep in mind when flying via American Airlines

• Booking a cabin space that can cater to you and your canine is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Since the number of pet kennels per flight is limited, it's crucial that you reserve a spot for your pet early.
• For pets flying as checked baggage, American Airlines restricts travel when temperatures fall below 45°F or rise above 85°F.

4Delta

Considered one of the friendliest airlines for pets, Delta also has no maximum weight limit for dogs riding in the cabin. Dogs Travel Guide lists the company as an option for bigger dogs.

However, your dog still has to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you, and space depends on each flight. Based on Delta’s Pet Travel Guidelines, you should first contact them to get the specific container dimensions for your canine.

Other things to note when flying with Delta together with your dog companion:

4 Things to keep in mind when flying via Delta

• The canine container you bring should be leak-proof, with at least two well-ventilated sides.
• Your dog should stay inside the carrier no matter where you are inside Delta's property. These include the terminal lounge, departure lounge, and of course, the cabin where you will stay during the flight.
• Your pet must meet Delta's minimum age requirements, which differ for domestic and international flights.
• International trips have extra rules: the European Union, for example, requires a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination, so check the destination's entry requirements well ahead of time.

5JSX Airlines

If you’re looking for a semi-private airline that allows your dog to travel beside you in a cabin, JSX Airlines is your best bet. Not only will it let you transport your canine within arm’s reach, the company ensures that you’ll do so with full comfort in mind.

Airlines Pet reports that your big dog can occupy the floor area of an adjacent seat. Depending on your dog’s weight (the source cites a 65-pound threshold), you may be required to buy that extra seat. When you spend extra money for an additional seat, you’re providing your dog with more floor area, not a seat to sit on.

Here are some specifics when traveling with your large canine via JSX Airlines:

4 Things to keep in mind when flying via JSX Airlines:

• Containers are not required, but putting a collar on your big dog is a must.
• Pet owners with large dogs can only purchase the aisle seats (B) and the adjacent window (C).
• Before boarding the plane, passengers with pets should fill out the JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form.
• Aircraft seats and seatback trays are off-limits to your dog. They can only occupy the floor area of your compartment even though you purchase an extra seat.

6Tradewind Aviation

Yet another private aviation option for pets is Tradewind Aviation, which lets large-breed dogs travel in its Citation CJ3 and Pilatus PC-12 models. Its flight routes are made of US and Caribbean destinations, making the airline ideal if you’re on vacation with your pup.

To be specific, the blog Boogie the Pug states that Tradewind allows passengers to bring canines weighing as much as 100 pounds on flights. However, like JSX Airlines, you’d have to purchase an extra seat when accompanied by a dog of this size.

Some important facts you should know when boarding Tradewind Aviation with your beloved pet:

2 Things to keep in mind when flying via Tradewind Aviation

• No travel restrictions are in place, and crates are not required.
• You have the choice of booking a whole plane for yourself and your big dog.

Must-Know Tips When Flying With a Large Dog in Cabin

Exploring different parts of the world with your beloved pet is an exciting event you’ll remember for a long time. However, there’s no denying that it can also be stressful, especially if it’s your first time doing so.

Don’t fret, though, because we know the feeling all too well! That’s why we’ve compiled some helpful tips when flying with a large dog in a cabin. Check them out below:

Read More About: How do dogs pee on a plane?

1Get Your Pet's Health Checked by a Veterinarian

Before anything else, you have to get your dog’s health assessed by an expert. Doing so will reveal whether they’re fit for air travel or if you should rule out the idea completely. During the check-up, you can also complete any vaccination requirements and get a health certificate if your airline or destination asks for one.

Don’t give your dog sedatives or calming medication for the flight unless your vet specifically recommends it. Sedation can affect breathing and balance at altitude, and veterinary organizations generally advise against it for air travel.

If you’re flying back into the United States from abroad, check the CDC’s dog import rules before you go. Since August 2024, dogs entering the US must be at least six months old, be microchipped, and travel with a CDC Dog Import Form receipt, with extra rabies paperwork for some countries.

2Avoid Feeding Your Dog Hours Before Departure

You may think it’s better to feed your canine before your much-awaited flight, but it’s really the other way around. By giving only a light meal about four to six hours before departure, you lower the risk of motion sickness. This way, there’s also a lesser chance of them feeling the need to potty while in the air. Keep offering small amounts of water, though, so your dog stays hydrated.

3Don't Forget to Tire Them Out

Providing physical stimulation for your canine before the flight is recommended for many pet parents. This is especially if you have a rowdy dog that won’t stay put in one place for too long. By tiring them out, they’ll most likely sleep throughout the whole air journey.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

You may have a few questions before we wrap things up; here are some of the most frequently asked:

Where Do Big Dogs Go on a Plane?

There are generally two places big dogs can go on a plane. The most common one is in the cargo hold, where they’ll end up in the same place as your checked baggage. Here, you’re unable to access or check them during the flight since they’re in a secure compartment.

They can also ride in the cabin if they are trained service dogs, which sit on the floor at their handler’s feet. Since a 2020 US Department of Transportation rule change, airlines no longer have to accept emotional support animals, and most major US airlines now treat them as regular pets. If they’re normal pets, only a few airlines (mostly semi-private carriers) allow big canines to ride with their owners. Of course, you may have to pay for an extra seat and other fees to accommodate your dog.

Is There A Weight Limit For Canines on an Airplane?

Most airlines only allow small dogs weighing 20 pounds or less to accompany passengers on their flights. However, other pet-friendly companies don’t put a weight limit on canines flying in their cabins. These include United Airlines, Southwest, and Delta, although your dog still has to fit in a carrier under the seat.

What Size Dog Will Fit Under an Airplane Seat?

Generally, only small dogs that are less than 11 inches tall and 18 inches long will fit under an airplane’s seat. These include breeds that are normally in the 20-pound threshold, such as terriers, chihuahuas, and Maltese.

Can I Buy a Seat For My Dog on an Airplane?

Most major airlines don’t allow passengers to purchase an extra seat for their canines. Yes, you may be able to travel with your pet in the cabin, but that doesn’t mean they can take the seat for themselves. You can only buy additional space to have more room for yourself and your beloved dog.

However, if you’re keen on buying a designated space for your pet, check out semi-private or independent airlines. Some of them are more accommodating to dogs of every size and weight, like Aero and Surf Air.

Wrapping It Up – The Best Airlines for Large Dogs

In conclusion, flying with a big dog takes more planning, but it isn’t impossible. If your dog can fit in an under-seat carrier, Spirit, Southwest, American and Delta are options; if he’s truly large, semi-private carriers like JSX and Tradewind Aviation are your best bet for keeping him right by your side. Whichever you choose, confirm the airline’s current pet policy, book early, and talk to your vet before the trip so your canine stays safe and calm, and you have peace of mind!