Alaska Airlines Pet Policy

Essential Information About Alaska Airlines Pet Policy: Fees, Rules, and Restrictions

Traveling with your pets can feel like a rollercoaster of emotions, excitement, anxiety, and maybe a bit of chaos. But don’t worry! Alaska Airlines makes it paws-ible to bring your furry or maybe scaly or feathery, whatever terms you prefer, friends along for the ride. There is an Alaska Airlines Pet Policy that’s all about safety, comfort, and convenience. After all, they are not just animals; they are part of your family, and your family travels together. So, if you are bringing your beloved furry pet family members with you on the plane, do check the airline’s policy. For more details, read through this blog; you will find all the basic things here.

What is Alaska Airlines pet policy?

Here is a quick yet brief preview of the pet policy of Alaska Airlines:

Pets in the Cabin: What’s Allowed?

Before you pack your bags and your pet’s, of course, here’s a quick breakdown of the types of pets Alaska Airlines welcomes onboard:

  • In the Cabin: Cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds can fly with you in the cabin if they meet size and age requirements.
  • In the Cargo Hold: Larger pets can be efficiently transported in the climate-controlled cargo area. This is ideal for pets that can’t fit under your seat.
  • Service Animals: Properly trained service dogs travel for free and get extra care to make sure they’re comfortable.

Unfortunately, you cannot take any of your exotic pets like snakes and lizards. They will have to sit this one out, because it is not covered under the Alaska Airlines pet policy.

Pet Carrier Fees

Pet travel isn’t free, but Alaska Airlines keeps it pretty reasonable for their loyal customers. So, do not worry about any hefty pet carrier charges.

  • In-Cabin Fee: You are required to pay $100 each way to fly with your pet on the plane.
  • Cargo Hold Fee: For bigger pets, the charges vary based on your pet’s size and weight. These charges usually start at $150). 

Fees are charged per kennel, not per pet. So, if you’ve got two tiny dogs that fit in the same carrier, you only pay once. You can contact Alaska Airlines customer helpline at +1 (888) 500-1715 or 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522). The airline executive will be able to help you in the fees department.

Pet Carrier Requirements

  • The carrier has to properly fit under the seat in front of you (dimensions: 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″).
  • Make sure it is leak-proof and well-ventilated.
  • Your pet has to stay inside its carrier for the entire flight.

Also, for your pet to fly with you on the flight, it must be at least 8 weeks old to travel.

How many pets does Alaska Airlines allow at once?

Alaska Airlines makes it easy to travel with your pets. However there’s a limit to how many pets can board with you on the flight as per the Alaska pet policy.

  • In-Cabin Pet Limit: Alaska Airlines only allows up to 5 pets in the main cabin per flight. These spots are first-come, first-served basis. So, make sure to book early if you want your pet to grab a seat under your seat.
  • Checked Pet Limit: If your pet is too big for the cabin, they can travel in the baggage compartment. Yes, even there, the airline enables up to 5 checked pets per flight only.
  • One Pet Per Passenger: The airline policy allows one passenger and one pet only. So, no passenger can bring two or more pets with them on the flight.

Also, at some locations, one passenger is allowed to take 2 pets with them. So, it would be good to check with the airline first. So, call Alaska Airlines helpline number +1 (888) 500-1715 or 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522) to know the details.

Can I book a seat for my dog on Alaska Airlines?

dreaming  as if your dog is sitting next to you on your flight to paradise? Well, while it sounds adorable, Alaska Airlines doesn’t actually allow passengers to book a seat for their dogs. Still, the Alaska Airlines Pet Policy lets you take one of your pets with you in any of the below-mentioned methods:

  1. In Cabin: Small dogs or pets that can easily fit under your seat.
  2. Checked Pet Option: For passengers carrying bigger dogs that cannot fit under the seat, can fly on the pet cargo section. It is safe and comfortable with temperature controlled facility.

For others, check with airlines through their customer service or Alaska Airlines pet helpline at +1 (888) 500-1715 or 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522).

Read More: Alaska Airlines Name Change Policy

Do I need any documents to fly with my pet on Alaska Airlines?

Yes, some destinations require valid documentation if you wish to fly with Alaska Airlines. Here are a few Alaska Airlines Health standard that needs to be considered:

Health Certificate: 

  • The pet parents are required to furnish a valid health certificate for pets traveling in the baggage compartment.
  • You need to ensure that the health certificate is strictly issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.

Vaccination Records:

You are also required to submit a copy of your pet’s vaccination records. These documentation are quite essential, especially if you’re taking an international flight.

Special Note: If you are traveling to Hawaii or any other international destinations, you should know that some additional restrictions and documentation may apply due to quarantine and local health laws.

Will my dog be safe in Alaska Airlines cargo?

Absolutely. Your pet’s safety is of the highest priority, and Alaska Airlines ensures all necessary safety measures are implemented in accordance with Alaska Air Pet Policy. You can travel with peace of mind, knowing your pet is secure and well cared for in the cargo section, while you enjoy a stress-free journey with the airline.

Also Read: What is the cancellation policy for Alaska Airlines?

FAQs

1. What happens if my pet is big for the cabin or baggage compartment?

Alaska Airlines partners with cargo services for transporting large animals safely. However, you might have to make prior arrangements with airlines, via a call at Alaska Airlines customer helpline +1 (888) 500-1715 or 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522). You can share your concern and they will provide the best solution accordingly.

2. Can I bring two or more pets on the Alaska Airlines flight?

Usually, the Alaska Airlines Pet Policy does not allow more than one pet per passenger. But still, you can bring up to two pets of the same species and share a carrier if they meet the standard size requirements.

3. Are there any blackout dates for pet flying on Alaska Airlines?

Some animals cannot tolerate extreme weather conditions, so the airlines might restrict their entry into the baggage compartment on the plane. Therefore, consult with an Alaska Airlines executive prior to boarding your plane.

4. What much does Alaska Airlines charge for pets on the flight?

The minimum charge for pets to fly with Alaska Airlines is about $100. The pet carrier fee may increase as per the size (the bigger the size, the higher the fee), breed and other factors. 

5. What if my pet’s carrier is larger than the approved dimensions?

If you are planning to carry your pet in the cabin section, then it has to be as per the mentioned dimension. Otherwise you will not be able to fly with your pet. However, you can take your larger per carrier in the cargo section, but there might be a standard size limit as well. So, confirm it as well prior boarding.