Alaska Airlines: Pet Policy

What methods of transport does Alaska Airlines provide for my pet?

  • Travel in the passenger cabin.
  • Checked as baggage in pressurized and temperature controlled area of your aircraft.
  • Shipped as cargo in pressurized and temperature controlled area.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel in the passenger cabin:

  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel, under the seat for the entire flight.
  • Only domesticated dogs, cats, birds, rabbits and fish are allowed.
  • Dogs and cats are at least 8 weeks old and have been weaned for at least 5 days before departure.
  • The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:

  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel for the entire flight.
  • The kennel meets all requirements (see below for more information) and the combined weight of the animal and kennel does not exceed 149 lb.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied, contact Alaska Airlines Cargo for more information.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

  • Fee for animal in the passenger cabin: $100 one way
  • Fee for animal checked as baggage: $100 one way

What are the kennel requirements?

In addition to the size and weight maximums, the USDA and Alaska Airlines require that kennels meet the following requirements:

  • Be leak-proof and escape-proof.
  • Be properly ventilated, but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
  • Provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around.
  • Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
  • Contain absorbent material or litter.
  • Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
  • Be closed securely, but not locked.
  • Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
  • Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.

What health documentation is required?

Alaska Airlines requires s health certificate, administered by a veterinarian, that is no more than 30 days old. Some States and Countries require additional health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements.

Are there any other restrictions?

Alaska Airlines can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.

Shortnose dogs/cats are only accepted for travel at owner's risk.



Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.