In-Cabin
Max weight (pet + carrier): 20 lbs
Max carrier dimensions: 40 × 30 × 27 cm
In-cabin fee: $150 USD
Cargo
American Airlines Cargo operates PetEmbark, a public-facing cargo program for dogs and cats. Pricing varies by crate dimensions and route — call the Animal Desk at 1-800-227-4622. Temperature embargo applies May 1–Sep 30 at hot-weather stations (PHX, TUS, LAS, PSP, and others). Checked-baggage pet service remains military/Foreign Service only.
Route Restrictions
In-cabin on domestic and select short-haul international routes. PetEmbark cargo available on domestic and many international routes. No checked-baggage pet option for general passengers.
Breed Restrictions
- All snub-nosed/brachycephalic breeds (in-cabin)
- Snub-nosed breeds subject to additional cargo restrictions — confirm with AA Cargo
Summer Embargo
Cargo embargoed: May, June, July, August, September
Paws en route Notes
American re-enters the cargo column via PetEmbark (AA Cargo), which accepts general-public bookings. The temperature embargo at desert-Southwest stations is strictly enforced — avoid routing through PHX or LAS in summer.
Done-for-You Service
American Airlines's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.
Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against American Airlines's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.
Get a American Airlines relocation quoteIn-Cabin Carriers
American Airlines Approved In-Cabin Pet Carriers
To fly in-cabin with American Airlines, your carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 40 × 30 × 27 cm. We stock carriers sized to fit — send us a note and we'll pair you with the right one.
Recommended: Standard Expandable Carrier
Airline Approved Soft-Sided Expandable Carrier
- Leak-proof bottom
- Ventilation on 3+ sides
- Soft-sided to compress under seat
Cargo Kennels
American Airlines Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels
For pets traveling in the hold, American Airlines enforces strict IATA CR-82 regulations. Wire crates and soft-sided bags are prohibited in the cargo hold. We source and size IATA-compliant kennels for your pet — send us a note to get started.
Recommended: IATA-Compliant Hard Kennel
IATA CR-82 Hard-Sided Travel Kennel
- Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
- Metal nuts and bolts (no plastic snap clips)
- Single-piece, spring-loaded metal door
- Sized for pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally
Book with this airline?
We verify American Airlines's policy before every booking.
Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.
Plan your flightCommon Questions
American Airlines pet travel — frequently asked
Does American Airlines allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, American Airlines allows small pets in-cabin on select routes. The combined pet and carrier weight must not exceed 20 lbs, and a per-trip fee of $150 USD applies. Always confirm eligibility on your specific route when booking.
Are there breed restrictions on American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines restricts certain breeds including All snub-nosed/brachycephalic breeds (in-cabin) and Snub-nosed breeds subject to additional cargo restrictions — confirm with AA Cargo. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.
Does American Airlines have a summer cargo embargo for pets?
Yes, American Airlines suspends live animal cargo during May, June, July, August, September. Plan travel in shoulder seasons or contact our team to arrange alternative routing.
