American Airlines Will No Longer Allow Emotional Support Animals On Flights

Labrador Retriever at airport

American Airlines announced that they will no longer allow passengers to bring emotional support animals on flights. Trained service dogs will still be allowed to fly, and their owners will not have to pay a pet fee.

The airline said their policy is in line with a new directive from the Department of Transportation. Under the updated regulations, airlines are not required to treat emotional support animals as service dogs.

Over the past few years, many passengers have been claiming their pets as emotional support animals, allowing them to bring various animals on board, including pigs, peacocks, ferrets, and cats. Unlike service dogs, support animals do not require specific training and were causing numerous issues during flights.

Passengers will still be able to fly with their pets but will have to pay a fee. In addition, the animals will have to fly in the cargo hold or be kept in a kennel that fits under the seat.

“Our team is motivated by a purpose to care for people on life’s journey, and we believe these policy changes will improve our ability to do just that,” said Jessica Tyler, President of Cargo and Vice President of Airport Excellence for American. “We’re confident this approach will enable us to better serve our customers, particularly those with disabilities who travel with service animals, and better protect our team members at the airport and on the aircraft.”

The new policy takes effect on January 11. American said they will allow any passenger with a previously booked flight to fly with their emotional support animal. Starting on February 1, passengers with a service dog will be required to fill out a DOT form detailing the training, health, and behavior of the animal. The form must be submitted at least 48 hours before the flight.

Photo: Getty Images


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