Traveling with pets has become more common than ever, and airlines have adapted their rules to meet that demand. The Delta Airlines Pet Policy is designed to balance passenger comfort, pet safety, and operational requirements. Whether a small dog is curling up in a carrier under the seat or a larger animal is flying through approved cargo services, understanding the details ahead of time helps avoid stress at the airport.

This guide breaks down Delta’s pet travel rules in clear, everyday language. From in-cabin pets to cargo options, fees, carrier sizes, and international considerations, everything is laid out in a way that feels practical and easy to follow.

Overview of Delta Airlines Pet Policy

Delta allows pets to travel in several ways depending on their size, destination, and type. Small pets may fly in the cabin on select routes, while larger pets can travel through Delta-approved cargo services. Each option has its own rules, fees, and paperwork requirements.

Pets are never treated like standard luggage. Space limits, health standards, and weather conditions all play a role in determining whether a pet can fly on a specific flight. Planning early is key, since pet spots are limited and fill up quickly.

Pets Allowed on Delta Flights

Delta generally accepts:

• Domestic cats

• Domestic dogs

• Household birds (on select domestic routes only)

Exotic animals, reptiles, rodents, and farm animals are not permitted as pets. Service animals follow a separate policy and are not covered under the standard Delta Airlines Pet Policy for pets traveling for comfort or companionship.

In-Cabin Pet Travel With Delta Airlines

Eligibility for In-Cabin Pets

Only small cats, dogs, and household birds are allowed to travel in the cabin. The pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside an approved carrier.

In-cabin pets must stay inside the carrier for the entire flight, including boarding and deplaning. Carriers are placed under the seat directly in front of the passenger.

Routes Where In-Cabin Pets Are Allowed

In-cabin pets are accepted on most domestic flights within the United States. Certain international routes also allow cabin pets, though restrictions apply based on destination country rules.

In-cabin pets are not permitted on:

• Flights to or from the United Kingdom

• Flights to or from South Africa

• Some long-haul international routes with strict animal import laws

Checking destination-specific rules before booking is essential.

Delta In-Cabin Pet Fees

Under the Delta Airlines Pet Policy, pets traveling in the cabin are subject to a one-way fee. The fee is charged per pet, per flight segment.

Typical fees include:

• Domestic flights: around $95 each way

• International flights: higher fees depending on destination

The pet fee does not count toward the standard baggage allowance and must be paid during check-in.

Pet Carrier Requirements for In-Cabin Travel

Approved Carrier Dimensions

Delta accepts both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers, as long as they fit under the seat. Maximum dimensions usually fall within these limits:

• Length: around 18 inches

• Width: around 11 inches

• Height: around 11 inches

Soft-sided carriers offer more flexibility and are often easier to fit under seats.

Carrier Design Rules

Carriers must:

• Be leak-proof

• Have proper ventilation on at least two sides

• Be secure and fully enclosed

• Keep the pet safely contained

Only one pet is allowed per carrier. However, two small pets of the same species may share a carrier if they are comfortable and meet size rules.

Checked Pet Travel and Cargo Options

Delta Cargo and Pet Travel

Delta no longer allows pets to travel as checked baggage on passenger flights. Instead, larger pets travel through Delta Cargo, which is a separate service designed specifically for animal transport.

This option is suitable for pets that are too large for cabin travel or for certain international relocations.

Pets Accepted Through Delta Cargo

Delta Cargo typically accepts:

• Dogs

• Cats

• Household birds (with limitations)

Each pet must meet strict health, crate, and documentation requirements before being approved for transport.

Cargo Crate Requirements

Crates must comply with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. Requirements include:

• Hard-sided construction

• Secure metal bolts

• Proper ventilation on all sides

• Enough space for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally

Crates that are too small or poorly ventilated may be rejected at check-in.

Health and Documentation Requirements

Health Certificates

Most pet travel under the Delta Airlines Pet Policy requires a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate typically confirms that the pet is healthy and fit to fly.

For domestic travel, certificates are usually required within 10 days of departure. International travel may have stricter timelines.

Vaccination Records

Proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory for dogs and cats. Some destinations also require additional vaccinations or parasite treatments.

Failure to provide correct documents can result in denied boarding, even if a booking is confirmed.

International Pet Travel With Delta Airlines

Traveling internationally with pets involves more planning than domestic trips. Import rules vary widely by country and may include quarantine periods, microchipping, and government-issued permits.

Destination-Specific Rules

Some countries have very strict entry requirements, while others are more flexible. Popular destinations often require:

• ISO-compliant microchips

• Rabies antibody titer tests

• Import permits issued in advance

Delta follows destination regulations closely and may refuse transport if requirements are not fully met.

Quarantine Considerations

Delta does not control quarantine policies. Any quarantine requirements are set by the destination country. Understanding these rules ahead of time prevents unpleasant surprises after arrival.

Weather Restrictions for Pet Travel

Extreme temperatures can affect pet travel availability. Delta monitors weather conditions closely to protect animals from heat or cold stress.

During periods of extreme heat or cold, Delta may temporarily suspend pet cargo transport. These restrictions are common during summer and winter months.

In-cabin pets are generally less affected by temperature restrictions, but safety always comes first.

Booking a Flight With a Pet on Delta

Reservation Process

Pet travel must be arranged directly with Delta. Adding a pet cannot be done entirely online. Calling Delta reservations ensures availability and confirms compliance with all rules.

Pet spots in the cabin are limited, so early booking improves chances of securing a space.

Check-In Requirements

Passengers traveling with pets must check in at the airport counter. Online or kiosk check-in is not available for pet travelers.

Arriving early is recommended, especially for international travel or cargo pet shipments.

Service Animals vs. Pets

Service animals follow a separate policy and are not subject to pet fees or carrier restrictions. Emotional support animals are no longer treated as service animals under Delta rules.

Understanding the distinction avoids confusion and ensures the correct process is followed.

Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience

Traveling with pets can be simple with a little preparation:

• Choose direct flights whenever possible

• Use familiar bedding inside the carrier

• Avoid feeding pets right before departure

• Label carriers clearly with contact information

• Visit a veterinarian before booking international travel

A calm pet usually results in a smoother journey for everyone involved.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many travel issues arise from small oversights:

• Waiting too long to reserve a pet spot

• Using a carrier that exceeds size limits

• Missing vaccination deadlines

• Ignoring destination import rules

Reviewing the Delta Airlines Pet Policy carefully reduces the risk of last-minute problems.

Refunds and Cancellations for Pet Fees

Pet fees are generally non-refundable unless the flight is canceled by Delta. If travel plans change, contacting Delta as soon as possible may help explore available options.

Why Understanding Delta Airlines Pet Policy Matters

Flying with pets involves more than just booking a seat. Each airline has unique standards, and Delta’s rules are designed to prioritize animal safety while keeping operations smooth.

Knowing the Delta Airlines Pet Policy ahead of time helps avoid delays, denied boarding, and unexpected costs. It also ensures pets experience the journey with minimal stress.

Final Thoughts on Delta Airlines Pet Policy

The Delta Airlines Pet Policy offers flexible options for travelers who want to bring pets along, whether in the cabin or through cargo services. With clear size limits, health requirements, and route restrictions, Delta provides a structured approach to pet travel.

Preparation remains the most important step. Early planning, proper documentation, and the right carrier make all the difference. When these details are handled correctly, flying with pets on Delta can be a comfortable and safe experience for both animals and their owners.

By understanding and following the Delta Airlines Pet Policy, travelers can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying the journey—paw prints and all. 🐾✈️