What's the cheapest airline to fly with a pet?

As of 2026, Allegiant Air is the cheapest at $50 one-way for in-cabin pets, followed by Sun Country at $75 (advance purchase) and Breeze Airways at $75–$99. Hawaiian Airlines offers the cheapest interisland rate at $35.

Do airlines charge per pet or per carrier?

Most airlines charge per carrier, not per pet. Two small pets sharing one carrier typically pay one fee. However, always check your airline's specific policy — some airlines have stricter rules about multiple pets per carrier.

Are service dogs free to fly?

Yes. Certified service dogs fly free on all U.S. airlines under Department of Transportation regulations. They sit at their handler's feet and do not need a carrier. Emotional support animals (ESAs) no longer qualify for free travel and must pay standard pet fees.

Is pet travel insurance worth it?

For domestic trips, pet travel insurance is optional. For international trips, it's recommended. Pet travel insurance can cover veterinary emergencies abroad, trip cancellation if your pet gets sick, and lost/delayed pet carrier situations.

Can I use credit card points to pay airline pet fees?

Generally, no — airline pet fees cannot be paid with points or miles. However, some loyalty programs offer pet-related perks. JetBlue's JetPaws program gives Mosaic members potential fee waivers.

How much does it cost to fly a cat vs. a dog?

Airline fees are the same for cats and dogs — the pet fee is per carrier, regardless of species. The main cost differences are in carrier size (cats typically need smaller carriers, which cost less) and international documentation requirements.

Pet Air Travel Cost 2026: How Much to Fly a Dog or Cat

In-cabin fees $50–$350, cargo $250–$700, international $1,000–$4,000+. Plus vet docs, crates, quarantine, and insurance. Includes 12-airline fee comparison table. Budget your trip in 2 minutes.