Delta Airlines offers various options for passengers traveling with pets, including in-cabin, cargo, and special provisions for military personnel and service animals.
In-Cabin Pet Policy
Small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected at check-in. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of the passenger. The pet must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel and 15 weeks old for international flights to Europe[1]. Delta Airlines limits the number of pets per flight to 2 in first class, 2 in business class, and 4 in the main cabin[2].
Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii[2]. Live animals are prohibited on all flights operating outside of the U.S., except Canada[3].
Cargo Pet Policy
For pets that are too large to travel in the cabin or are being transported separately from their owner, they can be shipped as cargo through Delta Cargo[2].
Delta Cargo is committed to the safe and reliable transport of all animals in their care and is the only airline with an experienced veterinarian on staff[4]. Pets shipped domestically via Delta Cargo cannot be booked until 14 days prior to departure, and pets are not guaranteed to be shipped on the same flight as their owner[2].
International Pet Travel
For international pet travel, Delta Cargo will only accept international pet shipments from International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) members. International customers should visit ipata.org to find an approved member to assist with their transportation requirements[5].
Emotional Support Animals
As of January 11, 2021, Delta Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support animals (ESAs) and treats them as regular pets[6]. This means that passengers traveling with ESAs will be subject to the same fees and restrictions applicable to pets.
Military Pet Travel
Delta Airlines accepts animals as checked baggage for active U.S. Military family members with active transfer orders[7]. Pets for members of the U.S. military and the U.S. Foreign Service and their dependents with active transfer orders can be accepted as checked baggage[5].
Weight Limit and Breed Restrictions
Delta Airlines does not specify a weight limit for pets traveling in the cabin or cargo. However, the pet must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of the passenger for in-cabin travel[8]. For cargo travel, the pet must be in a carrier that complies with USDA and IATA LAR rules[9].
Delta Airlines does not allow certain breeds of dogs and cats to travel in the cabin or cargo due to safety concerns[10]. It is essential to check with the airline for specific breed restrictions before booking your pet’s travel.
Hawaii Pet Policy
Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii[2]. Travelers planning to bring their pets to Hawaii should consider alternative transportation options or consult with a pet travel specialist to ensure compliance with Hawaii’s strict pet import regulations.
Service Animals
Delta Airlines recognizes trained service dogs and allows them to travel in the aircraft cabin for free[11]. However, emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals and are treated as regular pets[6].
In conclusion, Delta Airlines offers various options for pet travel, including in-cabin, cargo, and special provisions for military personnel and service animals. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the airline’s pet policy, weight limits, breed restrictions, and fees before booking your pet’s travel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Read A Comprehensive Guide to Delta Airlines’ Baggage Policies for Carry-On, Checked, Military, and Premium Classes for information on traveling with luggage.
Citations:
[1] https://www.theadventuresofdjangoandarya.com/airline-pet-policies/delta-airlines/
[2] https://www.bringfido.com/travel/airline_policies/delta/
[3] https://www.delta.com/us/en/pet-travel/international-connection-pet-travel
[4] https://www.deltacargo.com/Cargo/catalog/products/pet-transport
[5] https://afsa.org/sites/default/files/DeltaPetWaiver2016.pdf
[6] https://esadoctors.com/airline/delta-airlines-emotional-support-animal/
[7] https://www.delta.com/us/en/special-circumstances/military-travel/pets
[8] https://www.delta.com/us/en/pet-travel/overview
[9] https://airlinespet.com/delta-airlines-pet-cargo/
[10] https://airlinespet.com/delta-airlines-pet-policy/
[11] https://www.delta.com/us/en/accessible-travel-services/service-animals
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