Top 3 U.S. Airlines for Pet Owners in 2025

Top Airlines for Traveling with Pets

Traveling with pets can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when it’s done safely and comfortably. However, not all airlines are equally equipped to handle the needs of furry companions. To help pet owners make informed decisions, various organizations have evaluated airlines based on their policies and track records regarding pet transportation.

One such evaluation was conducted by WalletHub, which analyzed how many animals airlines have transported, how many have died in transport, and how many were injured or lost during travel. Based on this assessment, certain airlines have emerged as top choices for pet parents looking to travel with their pets.

United Airlines: A Reliable Choice

United Airlines currently accepts only dogs and cats on its flights, and these pets must travel in the cabin, not checked with cargo. Only certain active-duty military or State Department employees can fly pets in cargo. The airline charges $150 per pet for this service, but not every destination will accept them, so travelers should check ahead of time.

The policy for most flights is no more than two pets per person, though this can vary depending on the model of the plane. One seat has to be purchased per pet, making it important for travelers to plan accordingly.

SkyWest Airlines: Safe and Secure

SkyWest Airlines also received a perfect score of 5 out of 5 points for its animal-related incident record. This regional airline requires that any traveling animals remain in kennels that fit underneath the seat. Passengers cannot buy a seat for their pets. Alternatively, they can fly their pets as checked baggage, but only in reservations of one large kennel or two small or medium per flight. SkyWest does not accept extra-large or “giant” kennels.

As a regional airline, SkyWest often operates under the name of larger airlines, such as Delta Connection, and may offer passengers Delta frequent flyer points. It’s important to note that pet policies may vary depending on how the airline is operating your particular flight.

Envoy Air: A Great Option for Pet Travelers

Envoy Air, another regional airline, also scored a perfect 5 out of 5 points. It operates under American Airlines with the brand name American Eagle. While certain animals may fly through American Airlines as cargo, carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet size, age, and destination requirements. Fully trained pets, such as service dogs, can fly in the cabin for free.

Typically, pets won’t be allowed on flights over 12 hours long or outside of America. Therefore, it's essential to check specific policies before booking a trip.

Other Major Airlines: A Mixed Bag

When comparing other major airlines, the results are less favorable. For example:

• Delta Air Lines: Scored 3.19 out of 5.
• Alaska Airlines: Scored 2.37 out of 5.
• American Airlines: Scored 0.08 out of 5.

Considering Envoy Air scored far better than American Airlines, travelers might want to check whether Envoy Air is the regional airline behind an American Airlines flight before booking a trip with their pet.

WalletHub did not include Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and Spirit in this ranking because they do not transport pets at all.

Additional Tips for Pet Owners

For those interested in exploring additional ways to earn extra income, there are opportunities like completing surveys. These can provide a small but steady stream of income, especially for those looking to supplement their earnings.

Taking surveys can be a convenient way to earn extra money while relaxing at home. While it won't make you rich, it can be a helpful side hustle. Platforms like Survey Junkie offer a variety of opportunities to share opinions and earn rewards.

Whether you're planning a trip with your pet or simply looking for ways to earn extra cash, there are options available to suit different needs and lifestyles. Always research and plan ahead to ensure the best possible experience for both you and your furry friends.