Quick Answer
✅ Service dogs are always allowed in the cabin at no charge.
✈️ Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized by U.S. airlines and must travel as pets under standard pet rules.
⚠️ Other countries may have different policies, so always check international regulations.
Details
- Service dogs:
- Fully trained service dogs are protected by U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules.
- Allowed in the cabin, seated at your feet, free of charge.
- Airlines may require DOT service animal forms before travel.
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs):
- As of January 2021, U.S. airlines are no longer required to recognize ESAs.
- Most airlines now treat ESAs as regular pets — subject to pet fees, carrier size limits, and cabin restrictions.
- International flights:
- Some countries still recognize ESAs for cabin travel.
- Entry requirements vary (vaccinations, certificates, quarantine).
- Other service animals:
- Only dogs are recognized as service animals under U.S. DOT rules (not cats, birds, or other animals).
TSA Animal Rules Summary
| Animal Type | Carry-On | Checked | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service dog (trained) | ✅ Free, always allowed | ✅ If too large | Protected by DOT law |
| Emotional support animal | ❌ Not recognized | ✅ As regular pet | Must follow pet rules |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Paperwork: Airlines may request DOT service animal forms up to 48 hours in advance.
- ✈️ Behavior: Service dogs must remain well-behaved; disruptive animals can be denied boarding.
- ✈️ ESA confusion: Many travelers still assume ESAs fly free — but this is no longer true in the U.S.
- ✈️ International differences: Check airline and destination rules if flying abroad with an ESA.