Thinking about flying with your dog or cat on Delta? Whether you’re planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure, it’s important to understand Delta pet travel rules before booking your flight.
This guide covers Delta Airlines in-cabin pet policy, pet cargo service, service animal rules, and more all in one easy-to-read post.
Yes! Delta Airlines allows pets on most flights both domestic and international. However, the rules vary depending on your pet's size, breed, and how they travel (in-cabin vs cargo).
Delta offers pet travel in three ways:
In-cabin (small pets)
Cargo (larger animals via Delta Cargo for pets)
Service animals (for passengers with disabilities)
You can bring small dogs, cats, and household birds into the cabin if they meet certain conditions.
Your pet must stay in an approved soft-sided carrier
The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you
Only 1 pet per passenger is allowed in-cabin
Pet must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights
(16 weeks old for international travel)
Approximate size: 18” x 11” x 11”
Carrier must be ventilated, secure, and leakproof
Dogs are the most common pets flown on Delta. You can fly with small dogs in-cabin, or larger dogs through Delta pet cargo service.
Delta also accepts service dogs, which can fly for free with approved documentation. However, emotional support animals are no longer accepted as service animals under Delta’s current policy.
If your pet is too large for the cabin, they’ll need to fly in the airline’s cargo hold via Delta Cargo.
Available for dogs, cats, and certain animals
Not all aircraft or routes offer cargo pet travel
Book pet travel separately via Delta Cargo
You can’t travel on the same flight as your pet (in some cases)
Pet crate requirements must meet IATA standards:
Enough room for the pet to stand, sit, and turn around
Hard-sided, secure, well-ventilated crate
Before your pet can board, you must meet certain requirements:
Health certificate (dated within 10 days of travel)
Vaccination records
Proof of age (minimum 10 or 16 weeks depending on destination)
Import/export permits for some international flights
Flying abroad? Pet travel rules vary by destination.
Some countries require quarantine or special permits
Delta may not allow pets in-cabin on certain international or long-haul routes
Check destination-specific pet import laws before booking
Some breeds and situations are restricted for safety:
Snub-nosed breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are banned from cargo
No pets allowed in-cabin on Delta One, lie-flat seats, or Delta Premium Select
Travel may be restricted during extreme heat or cold
Always check Delta's site for weather embargoes and seasonal limitations.
Delta allows trained service dogs to fly in the cabin free of charge.
Must be trained to assist a person with a disability
Submit a DOT service animal form at least 48 hours before flight
The animal must be well-behaved and stay at your feet during the flight
Delta no longer recognizes emotional support animals (ESAs) as service animals. If your ESA doesn’t meet service animal qualifications, it must travel as a regular pet (in-cabin or cargo), with all standard pet travel rules and fees applied.
Booking a pet on Delta is simple, but you need to act early.
Book your flight online or by phone
Call Delta Reservations (800-221-1212) to add a pet to your booking
Pay the in-cabin pet fee or book Delta Cargo separately
Prepare all documents, carrier, and supplies
Arrive early for check-in and pet verification
Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early
Line your carrier or crate with absorbent material
Feed your pet at least 4 hours before the flight
Attach a name tag and contact info to your pet’s carrier
Carry a leash, treats, and calming toys
Flying with pets on Delta can be a smooth experience if you follow the right rules. Whether you're traveling with a dog in the cabin or sending your pet via Delta Cargo, always prepare in advance.
Check Delta’s official pet page for the latest updates, and make sure your pet’s comfort and safety come first.