Traveling with a pet can be a stressful experience, but it doesn't have to be. American Airlines offers a variety of pet-friendly services to make your journey as smooth as possible. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to add your pet to your American Airlines flight:

How to Add a Pet to Your American Airlines Flight

Step 1: Check the Pet Policy

Before you book your flight, make sure to check American Airlines' pet policy. This policy outlines the types of pets that are allowed on flights, the size and weight restrictions, and the fees associated with traveling with a pet.

Step 2: Choose the Right Pet Carrier

Your pet must travel in a carrier that meets American Airlines' size and weight requirements. The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It must also be made of a sturdy material that will not flex or collapse.

Step 3: Book Your Flight

When you book your flight, you will need to let American Airlines know that you will be traveling with a pet. You can do this by calling the airline's reservations department or by booking your flight online. You will need to provide the following information:

  • Your pet's name
  • Your pet's weight
  • The dimensions of your pet's carrier
  • The type of pet you are traveling with (dog, cat, or other)

Step 4: Pay the Pet Fee

American Airlines charges a pet fee for all pets that travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. The fee varies depending on the size of your pet and the type of carrier you are using. You can pay the pet fee when you book your flight or at the airport on the day of travel.

Step 5: Prepare Your Pet for Travel

Before you travel, you will need to prepare your pet for the journey. This includes:

  • Getting your pet vaccinated
  • Obtaining a health certificate from your veterinarian
  • Training your pet to use a carrier
  • Packing food, water, and other supplies for your pet

Step 6: Arrive at the Airport Early

On the day of travel, you will need to arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to check in your pet. You will need to present your pet's health certificate and vaccination records to the airline staff. You will also need to pay the pet fee if you have not already done so.

Step 7: Check In Your Pet

Once you have checked in for your flight, you will need to check in your pet. You can do this at the airline's pet check-in counter. The airline staff will weigh your pet and carrier and issue you a pet tag. You will need to attach the pet tag to your pet's carrier before boarding the plane.

Step 8: Board the Plane

When it is time to board the plane, you will need to take your pet to the designated pet boarding area. The airline staff will help you load your pet's carrier onto the plane. Once the plane is in the air, your pet will be placed in a designated pet area in the cabin or cargo hold.

Step 9: Retrieve Your Pet at Your Destination

When you arrive at your destination, you will need to retrieve your pet from the designated pet area in the cabin or cargo hold. The airline staff will help you unload your pet's carrier and return your pet to you.