Traveling with your beloved pet on American Airlines can be an exciting adventure, but understanding their pet travel policies, especially regarding carrier size, is crucial for a stress-free journey. American Airlines, like many airlines, has specific regulations about the dimensions of pet carriers allowed in the cabin. Officially, the maximum carrier size for American Airlines flights is 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high. However, real-world experiences from fellow pet travelers suggest that these guidelines might not always tell the whole story, particularly depending on the aircraft type.
One pet owner, Eva, recently shared her experience flying with her cat, Bogart, on two different American Airlines planes: a CRJ-700 and an MD-80 (S80). Bogart’s carrier, a Petmate Kennel Cab measuring approximately 19″ x 11″ x 10.25″, fit comfortably under the seat of the CRJ-700 in an economy aisle seat. Eva estimated the under-seat space on this aircraft to be around 11 inches high, providing ample room for Bogart’s slightly taller carrier.
However, the return flight on an MD-80 (S80) presented a different challenge. Despite the carrier fitting within the official length and width guidelines, it did not fully fit under the seat. A significant bar, larger than those typically found in Boeing 737-800s and consistent across all seats on the MD-80 regardless of location (aisle, middle, or window), obstructed the carrier. This bar prevented the carrier from sliding all the way under the seat, highlighting a potential discrepancy between official carrier size limits and actual under-seat space on certain aircraft.
Eva noted, “a 19″ long x 13″ wide x 9″ high carrier will fit on a CR7 but not on an S80.” This firsthand account underscores the importance of considering not just the official guidelines but also the specific aircraft type when planning pet travel with American Airlines. While the flight attendants on Eva’s flights were understanding, or perhaps didn’t notice the slightly protruding carrier, it’s always best to be prepared and ensure your pet’s carrier fits comfortably and safely under the seat in front of you.
While American Airlines’ official website states the maximum carrier dimensions, experiences like Eva’s highlight the variability that can exist depending on the aircraft. To ensure a smoother pet travel experience with American Airlines, it’s advisable to:
- Confirm Aircraft Type: Try to determine the aircraft type for your specific flights when booking or managing your reservation. Aircraft type can influence under-seat space.
- Measure Your Carrier Carefully: Double-check the dimensions of your pet carrier, paying close attention to the height, as this seems to be a critical factor.
- Consider a Soft-Sided Carrier: Soft-sided carriers often offer more flexibility and might be easier to maneuver into tighter under-seat spaces.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time at the airport in case you encounter any questions or need assistance with your pet carrier.
Traveling with pets requires careful planning, and understanding the nuances of airline pet policies, including potential variations in under-seat space based on aircraft, is essential. By learning from the experiences of other pet travelers and taking proactive steps, you can increase the chances of a comfortable and hassle-free journey for both you and your furry companion on American Airlines.
