United Airlines allows pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage on most flights. There are some restrictions on the types of pets that can travel, as well as the size and weight of the pet. To add a pet to your United flight, you will need to make a reservation for your pet and pay a fee.

How to Add a Pet to a United Flight

Booking a Flight for Your Pet

To book a flight for your pet, you can call United Airlines reservations at 1-800-864-8331 or book online. When you book your flight, you will need to provide the following information:

  • Your pet's name
  • Your pet's breed
  • Your pet's weight
  • Your pet's age
  • The type of pet carrier you will be using

United Airlines accepts dogs, cats, and rabbits as pets. Other animals may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel. The maximum weight for a pet in the cabin is 20 pounds, including the carrier. The maximum weight for a pet as checked baggage is 100 pounds, including the carrier.

Pet Fees

United Airlines charges a fee for pets to travel. The fee varies depending on the size of your pet and whether you are traveling in the cabin or as checked baggage. The fee for a pet in the cabin is $125 each way. The fee for a pet as checked baggage is $200 each way.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

Before your pet can travel, you will need to prepare him or her for the trip. This includes:

  • Getting your pet a health certificate from your veterinarian.
  • Vaccinating your pet against rabies and other diseases.
  • Training your pet to use a pet carrier.
  • Acclimating your pet to the sound of the plane engine.

At the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to check in your pet at the United Airlines ticket counter. You will need to present your pet's health certificate and vaccination records. You will also need to pay the pet fee.

If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you will need to take him or her through security. Your pet must be in a carrier that is approved by the TSA. You can find a list of approved carriers on the TSA website.

If your pet is traveling as checked baggage, you will need to take him or her to the United Airlines baggage counter. Your pet will be placed in a special pet carrier and loaded onto the plane.

In-Flight

During the flight, your pet will be kept in a pressurized and temperature-controlled cargo hold. Your pet will have access to food and water. You can check on your pet during the flight by asking a flight attendant.

Upon Arrival

When you arrive at your destination, you will need to pick up your pet at the baggage claim area. If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you will be able to take him or her with you. If your pet is traveling as checked baggage, you will need to go to the United Airlines baggage counter to claim your pet.