Delta Airlines Pet policy permits certain pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo, depending on their size. However, Delta does not allow pets to travel in the checked baggage section of the aircraft.
Delta Airlines permits pets in all cabins, including Basic Economy, on domestic flights. However, on international flights, pets are not allowed in First Class, Business Class, or Business Elite. Continue reading below for details on traveling with pets on Delta, including information on pet carrier size, pet fees, and frequently asked questions regarding pet travel with Delta Airlines.
Delta Airlines Pet Policy : Major Highlights
Here is a snapshot of the Delta Airlines pet policy:
Small dogs, cats, and household birds are allowed to fly in the passenger cabin on most domestic flights. Pets must be small enough to comfortably fit in a carrier under the front seat.
Delta currently does not accept pets as checked baggage in the aircraft hold due to COVID-19 precautions. Exceptions are made for active-duty military personnel and State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO).
Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin, on international flights.
The size of the pet carrier on Delta depends on your route, but it must allow your pet to fit comfortably inside.
Delta service dogs can travel in the cabin with their owners free of charge.
Delta no longer provides free accommodation for emotional support animals.
Snub-nosed dog and cat breeds are not accepted as checked or cargo baggage by Delta.
Larger pets can be transported as cargo through Delta airlines Cargo; however, there is no assurance that they will be scheduled on the same flight as the passenger
Advance reservation is necessary as pets are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The maximum number of pets allowed per flight is limited to 2 in First Class, 2 in Business Class, and 4 in the Main Cabin on most flights.
Pets traveling in the cabin on most domestic flights may not necessitate a health certificate. However, for animals transported as Delta pet cargo, a health certificate is necessary. It must be issued within 10 days of travel by a licensed veterinarian. On international flights, compliance with the health and documentation requirements of the destination country is essential .
Delta Airlines Pet Policy—In cabin pets
As per Delta Airlines' in-cabin pet policy, you can accompany your small dog, cat, or household bird in the passenger cabin. However, your pet must comfortably fit in a small, well-ventilated carrier that can be stowed under your front seat. The size of the carrier depends on the aircraft, so it's advisable to confirm with Delta before your trip. Along with the pet carrier/kennel, you are permitted to bring one personal item onboard, as the pet carrier/kennel will count as your carry-on item.
Pets Allowed
To arrange for your pet's travel, contact the Delta office in your area in advance to make pet reservations.
The permitted number of pets per flight varies as outlined below:
Domestic flights including Canada:
Business Class, Delta One: 2 pets
International flights:
First Class, Business Class, Delta One, Delta Premium Select: 0 pets
Main Cabin:
Domestic and International: 4 pets
Pet age requirements are as follows:
At least 10 weeks old for domestic flights within the United States.
At least 15 weeks old for travel to the European Union (EU).
At least 16 weeks old for travel from the United States to another country. The per-way pet fee for in-cabin pets, payable at check-in, is as follows:
To/from U.S./Canada/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands:
1. For tickets issued on/after February 28, 2022: USD/CAD 95
2. For tickets issued before February 28, 2022: USD/CAD 125
To/from International: USD/CAD/EUR 200
To/from Brazil: USD 75
The dimensions of the carry-on pet carrier depend on the flight and aircraft, so it's best to contact Delta Reservations for specifics. However, Delta suggests soft-sided pet carriers with maximum dimensions of 18 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches, as this size typically fits most aircraft. The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 18 pounds.
Only one pet per passenger is permitted. Your pet must comfortably fit inside the carrier without any body parts touching or protruding from it. It should be able to sit, stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
Delta Airlines Pet Policy for Checked Pets
Delta no longer permits pets to travel as checked baggage in the aircraft hold. However, active US Military personnel on transfer orders are exempt and allowed to transport pets as checked baggage. Larger pets that exceed size limitations must be transported as air cargo on select aircraft.
Delta Airlines Pet Travel for Military Personnel—Pets as Checked Baggage
According to Delta airlines pet travel policy:
Active-duty U.S. military personnel and active-duty State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO), along with their spouses, are permitted to travel with pets as checked baggage. When opting to travel with pets in this manner, they must inform Delta at least 48 hours before departure.
Accepted pets include:
Cats (excluding snub-nosed breeds) on both domestic and international flights.
Dogs (excluding snub-nosed breeds) on both domestic and international flights.
Rabbits, hamsters, household birds, and guinea pigs are only accepted on domestic flights within the United States. Passengers must follow the given regulations and ensure proper documentation depending on current policies and procedures. The pet fees for military pet travel are as follows:
To/from the U.S./U.S.V.I/Puerto Rico: USD 200
International (including Canada or the Caribbean): USD/CAD/EUR 200
Brazil: USD 150
Delta Airlines Pet Policy - Cargo pets
According to Delta Airlines pet cargo policy, larger animals can be transported as air cargo through Delta Cargo. Delta Cargo serves destinations in the United States, Canada, Latin America, South America, the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe. For international pet cargo reservations, travelers must arrange bookings through an IPATA agent.
The main points of Delta Airlines pet cargo policy include:
Live animals are accepted exclusively on Delta Cargo routes.
Transporting live animals to the United Kingdom is limited to cats, dogs, live fish, ferrets, and insects. Other animals will not be accepted.
Non-human primates are only accepted for shipment between rehabilitation centers, wildlife preserves, and zoological organizations and societies. Shipments between private parties are not permitted. Eligible non-human primates must be fully weaned and at least 2 years old.
Animals displaying aggressive or dangerous behavior may be refused transportation.
Delta Cargo prohibits the shipment of the following animals:
Elephants, leopards, lions, rhinos, and buffalo hunting trophies.
Cats and dogs intended for research purposes.
DASH and DASH critical animals will not be accepted.
Age requirements are as follows:
Dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
Age requirements for other warm-blooded animals may vary. Please contact Delta Cargo at 1-800-352-2746 for more information.
Bookings can be made starting from 14 days to 24 hours prior to the departure.
There is no guarantee that the pet will be transported in accordance with the passenger's flight schedule.
Delta Cargo does not permit warm-blooded animals on flights lasting more than 12 hours on average, and shipments are limited to a maximum of 2 flight segments.
The layover between connecting flights must be at least 2 hours.
For domestic flights, drop off your pet at least 3 hours before departure, as check-in closes 2 hours before departure.
For international flights, drop off your pet at least 5 hours before departure, as check-in closes 4 hours before departure.
Pet pickup will also be from a Delta Cargo location.
Delta Cargo only accepts dogs and cats for shipment when the temperature forecast at each location of the pet’s journey (origin, transfer, and destination) is between 20°F (-7°C) and 80°F (27°C). If the temperature falls between 45°F (7°C) and 20°F (-7°C), a Certificate of Acclimation must be submitted.
The temperature restrictions mentioned above do not apply to birds, poultry, chicks, cold-blooded animals (including fish and live seafood), and rats/mice for research purposes, unless they are being transported as personal pets.
For international shipments, Delta Cargo recommends using an IPATA-approved pet shipper.
Snub-nosed (Brachycephalic) dogs and cats, as well as hybrids, will not be accepted for shipment.
Obtain a Health Certificate from a licensed, USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of the travel date. Digital signatures on electronic health certificates are acceptable.
Review Delta's booking guide thoroughly to ensure adherence to all requirements.
For further details and assistance, contact Delta Cargo Customer Service at +1-800-352-2746.
Delta Airlines Pet Carrier Requirements for Pets as Cargo
Delta Airlines pet cargo policy necessitated following requirements for pet carriers/containers/kennels:
Compliance: The carrier/container/kennel must comply with USDA and IATA LAR regulations.
Animal Identification: When flying an animal other than a dog or cat, both the common and scientific names of the animal must be provided.
Number of Pets: For animals aged between 8 weeks to 6 months, up to 2 dogs or cats are permitted per kennel if they are of comparable weight and do not exceed 20lb/9kg each. For animals aged 6 months and above, only 1 dog or cat per kennel is allowed. Mothers and young must travel separately.
Construction: Pet carriers/containers/kennels with plastic latches, doors, and fasteners are not allowed. They must be connected using threaded nuts and bolts.
Pet carrier/container/kennel construction requirements specify that they must:
Be constructed from a rigid material with a sturdy top and ventilation from at least three sides. For international travel, ventilation from all four sides is essential.
Have openings situated on the upper two-thirds section of the container/kennel, excluding the top or door.
Feature a metal door unless utilizing a CarePod crate. Plastic, fiberglass doors, and plastic latches are prohibited.
Do not have locked doors as per federal regulations.
Include a rim or spacer bar protruding at least 1.9cm (0.75in) from all sides with ventilation openings.
If it contains wheels, they must be taped together or removed.
Pet carrier/container/kennel size must meet the following requirements according to Delta Airlines pet cargo policy:
Enough space for your pet to stand or sit.
Sufficient room for your pet to lie down naturally.
Ample space for your pet to turn around normally.
Your pet's head or ears should not touch the roof when sitting or standing inside the container.
According to Delta Airlines pet cargo policy, the following kennels are restricted:
Kennels made of wire/welded mesh, cardboard, wicker, or collapsible materials will not be permitted.
Containers with dual doors are not allowed.
Containers/kennels with plastic doors and/or latches/fasteners for securing the top and bottom will not be accepted. If metal or plastic fasteners are used, they must be of the nut-and-bolt threaded type.
Folding-type containers are prohibited.
Containers/kennels above 300 series or customized crates larger than 24 inches in height are not accepted.
According to Delta Airlines pet cargo policy:
The pet container/kennel must have two empty dishes for food and water. One-piece dishes are permitted if they can be divided into two separate sections. These utensils must be properly fixed to the inner section but accessible from the outside, allowing food and water to be provided as needed.
Federal regulations mandates that cats and dogs under 16 weeks old must be fed every 12 hours, and every 24 hours for those 16 weeks or older. Water receptacles must be refilled at stopovers.
Water bottles are permitted if they can be securely fixed to the outer section and refilled without opening the door. However, a separate food dish must still be provided.
Per Delta Airlines pet cargo policy:
The pet container/kennel must contain absorbent material, such as shredded newspapers (black and white), bedding, towels, blankets, etc.
Organic materials like wood shavings, hay, or straw are prohibited outside of the United States and Alaska.
Litter boxes for cats are not allowed.
According to Delta Airlines pet cargo policy:
Containers/kennels must be labeled and marked in block letters per domestic and international regulations:
"LIVE ANIMAL" must be at least 2.5cm/1in high on the top and one side.
"THIS END UP" with arrows on at least two sides indicating the top section of the container.
If the animal requires food during transit, feeding instructions must be attached/affixed/provided on top of the container, with food attached to the outer part of the container/kennel. If no food is required, a signed statement from the pet's veterinarian must be attached.
For warm-blooded animals being transported , written certification is required, confirming that the pet has been fed within 4 hours of checking in.
Delta Airlines pet cargo policy strictly prohibits the sedation or tranquilization of dogs and cats. If an animal except a household cat or dog has been sedated, tranquilized, or medicated, you must provide the related information on top of the container/kennel: the generic name of the drug used, the dosage, the method of drug administration, the drug used, the animal’s weight, and the time of medication.
What Paperwork Do I Need to Fly with my Dog on Delta?
For most domestic flights within the United States, a health certificate or additional paperwork may not be required for in-cabin pets. However, pets transported as cargo requires a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of the travel date.
When traveling internationally with a pet, ensure you prepare the necessary vaccinations and travel documents ahead of time by following these steps:
Carry the original documents and paperwork with you during the journey.
Attach a tag containing your full contact details, including a phone number, to the pet carrier or kennel.
Mention the pet's name clearly on the side of the pet container or kennel.
Common travel documents for pets include:
Pet passport, if essential by the destination country.
Health certificate in English, complying with legal requirements.
It's highly advised to attach copies of these documents to the kennel for reference.
Delta Airlines Pet Fee
Delta Airlines pet fee is as follows:
To/From U.S.A./Canada/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands:
For tickets issued on/after Feb. 28, 2022: USD/CAD 95
For tickets issued before Feb. 28, 2022: USD/CAD 125
International:
USD/CAD/EUR 200
To/from Brazil:
USD 75
For information on Delta pet fees, please contact Delta Cargo Customer Service at +1-866-410-8128.
Here are some tips to consider before your pet's departure:
Gradually acclimate your pet to its carrier in the days leading up to your trip.
Avoid feeding or giving water to your pet for 2-3 hours before your flight.
Take your dog for a walk shortly before your flight.
Unless instructed by a veterinarian, avoid tranquilizing your pet.
Arrive at the check-in counter slightly before the recommended time.
The following snub-nosed (Brachycephalic) dog and cat breeds are not permitted on any Delta Airlines flight, whether as checked baggage or air cargo:
Dog Breeds: Tibetan Spaniel, American Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Shih Tzu, Shar Pei, Pug, Pit Bull, Pekinese, King Charles Spaniel (Cavalier King), Mastiff (all breeds excluding German Mastiff), Japanese Spaniel (Chin), Japanese Pug, Japanese Boxer, Lhasa Apso, French Bulldog, English Toy Spaniel, English Bulldog, Dutch Pug, Chow Chow, Chinese Pug, Bulldog (all breeds), Boxer (all breeds), Brussels Griffon (Petit Brabancon), Boston Terrier, American Bully (all breeds), American Pit Bull Terrier, Affenpinscher, and American Staffordshire Terrier.
Cat Breeds: British Shorthair, Persian, Himalayan, Exotic Shorthair, Scottish Fold, and Burmese.
Does Delta Airlines accept trained service animals on its flights?
Delta Airlines' pet policy permits trained service animals on all flights. However, there's been a recent change: only dogs qualify as service animals. These dogs must be trained to help passengers with disabilities. Each passenger with a disability is eligible to travel with up to 2 trained service dogs in the cabin free of cost.
To ensure compliance with regulations, passengers traveling with service animals on Delta Airlines must follow these steps:
Fill out and submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form online via My Trips through the Accessibility Service Request Form at least 48 hours before the travel date.
Passengers booking within 48 hours of departure should present the form at Delta’s check-in desk or departure gate.
For flights exceeding 8 hours, passengers must also submit a DOT Relief Attestation Form.
Here are the general conditions for service dogs on Delta Airlines:
The service dog must be at least 16 weeks old.
It should occupy the floor space within the passenger's foot area or sit in the passenger's lap if it's smaller than a 2-year-old infant.
If the service dog is larger than a 2-year-old lap infant, it must remain seated on the floor.
The service dog must always stay with the passenger.
It should never occupy a seat.
It must not occupy aisle space or another passenger's foot area.
Here are the behavioral conditions for service dogs on Delta Airlines:
Must always remain under the passenger's control.
Must always be muzzled and leashed/harnessed.
Must not bark, bite, or growl excessively.
Must not pounce at others.
Must not relieve itself inside the aircraft or at the airport.
Must not consume food from a tray.
How to Travel with an Emotional Support Animal (ESAN) on Delta Airlines?
Delta Airlines has ceased accepting new bookings for emotional support animals in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation's final rule. Passengers who want to travel with an emotional support animal must now adhere to Delta's Pet Travel Policy.
Please note that if you had a confirmed reservation for traveling with an emotional support animal on or before January 11, 2021, you may proceed with your travel plans as scheduled. However, Delta will not accept new bookings for emotional support animals.
Frequently Asked Questions on Delta Airlines pet policy
How many service dogs am I allowed to travel with on Delta Airlines?
According to Delta's Pet Policy, you can travel with two service dogs.
Are there pet relief areas present at the airport?
Yes, there are specified pet relief areas at the airport to help prepare your pet for their journey.
Are pets allowed to travel in the baggage compartment?
No, pets are generally not allowed to travel in the baggage compartment on Delta flights. However, there are some exceptions made for Military active duty animals.
In what areas can my pet travel on Delta flights?
Delta permits pets to travel both in the cabin and cargo, relying on their pet policy guidelines.
What documents do I require for my pet to travel with Delta?
You will need a health certificate, a Pet passport, and a vaccine report for your pet to travel with Delta.
How can I add pet travel to my booking with Delta Airlines?
You can add pet travel while booking or by contacting Delta Airlines reservation later. The Delta staff will assist you with the process as per your need.
How many pets can I bring with me on Delta flights?
Delta allows passengers to travel with only two pets in the cabin, only if they meet the airline's requirements.
Can pets travel in the cargo hold?
Yes, Delta allows pets to travel in the cargo hold as well, depending on certain conditions and restrictions.
What types of pets are allowed to travel with Delta?
Delta generally allows cats, dogs, and household birds to travel as pets, however certain breed and species restrictions may apply.
What are the Delta airlines pet carrier restrictions on the size or weight of pets traveling in the cabin?
Delta mandates size and weight restrictions for pets traveling in the cabin. Mostly , pets must be small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of the passenger.
Is there a need to make special arrangements for my pet when booking my flight with Delta?
Yes, passengers are required to inform Delta Airlines in advance if they want to travel with a pet. This can generally be done during the booking process or by reaching out to Delta's customer service.
Are there any temperature restrictions for pet travel with Delta Airlines?
Yes, Delta mandates temperature restrictions for pet travel to ensure the safety and well-being of animals. Travel may be restricted during extreme temperatures.
What would happen if my pet became ill or distressed during the flight?
Delta's trained staff will provide assistance and care to pets in distress during the flight. Passengers should inform the flight crew immediately if their pet needs assistance.
What is Delta’s dog policy?
Delta airlines pet policy for dogs recommends using a soft-sided kennel with a maximum size of 18” x 11” x 11”, as it fits most aircraft types. Your pet should stay inside the kennel with the door properly closed inside the Delta boarding area, during boarding and deboarding , while in a Delta Sky Club, and while on board in the aircraft.
Describe Delta airlines pet policy for international routes?
Delta Airlines pet policy for international travel stipulates that only small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin, with a weight limit, including the pet carrier, of 18lb/8kg. Larger pets must be transported as cargo, except those accompanying military personnel on active duty.
The size of the pet carrier for in-cabin pets differs depending on the route and aircraft type Snub-nosed dog and cat breeds are not permitted as checked or cargo baggage. Trained service dogs can accompany their owners in the passenger cabin free of cost.
Pet owners must make sure that their pet's health certificates and travel documents meet the requirements of the destination country. For non-service animals, shipping as cargo is necessary to/from certain countries, including Australia, New Zealand, UK, UAE, South Africa, Ireland, Jamaica, Iceland, Hong Kong, Dubai, Dakar, and Barbados. Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed on the aircraft.
What are Delta airlines pet requirements as checked baggage?
Delta Airlines does not allow pets as checked baggage, except for U.S. military personnel and U.S. Foreign Service Officials on active transfer orders. Advanced reservations, made at least 48 hours prior to the departure, are necessary . Pets that are larger than size limits must be transported as air cargo on specific aircraft. Permitted animals include dogs and cats, excluding banned breeds, on both domestic and international routes. Additionally, on domestic routes, rabbits, hamsters, household birds, and guinea pigs are also allowed .
Brief me about Delta airlines pet in-cabin policy?
According to Delta Airlines pet in-cabin policy, small dogs, cats, and household birds are permitted in the aircraft cabin on most domestic flights (excluding Hawaii). The pet carrier must adjust under the front seat with the pet inside. On international routes, only small cats and dogs are accepted . The size of the pet carrier differs by aircraft type and should be checked beforehand .
Service dogs can travel for free in the passenger cabin with their owners, but emotional support animals are no longer allowed free of charge. Snub-nosed dog and cat breeds are not accepted on Delta flights.
Since pet bookings are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and the number of pets per flight is limited, it's necessary to reserve in advance .Health certificates may not be necessary for domestic travel within the United States, but they are essential for flying pets via air cargo or transporting pets on international flights.
What is Delta Airlines pet policy for Hawaii?
Delta Airlines pet policy for Hawaii, does not permit pets as carry-on baggage. However, seeing eye dogs may be allowed under given conditions, subject to reservations and availability.
+1-866-410-8128
