Traveling with an ESA: airline policies and tips

Traveling with an emotional support animal (ESA) has become increasingly complex in recent years. While these animals provide valuable comfort for individuals with mental health conditions, airline policies have shifted dramatically. Understanding current regulations and preparing thoroughly can help make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

Do Airlines Still Allow Emotional Support Animals?

Most major U.S. airlines no longer recognize emotional support animals as a protected category separate from pets. This policy shift began in December 2020 when the Department of Transportation revised its Air Carrier Access Act regulations, allowing airlines to classify emotional support animals as pets rather than service animals.

Currently, only trained service animals that assist individuals with disabilities receive special accommodations under federal law. These service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks related to their handler’s disability.

Most major carriers including American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, and JetBlue now require emotional support animals to travel as regular pets. This typically means:

Your ESA must fit in a carrier that goes under the seat
You must pay the airline’s pet fee (usually $95-$125 each way)
Your animal counts toward your carry-on baggage allowance
Size and weight restrictions apply

Some smaller or international airlines may have different policies, so check with your specific carrier at least 48 hours before your flight.

Required Documentation for Traveling with an ESA

While ESAs no longer receive special accommodations on most airlines, proper documentation remains important. Having these documents on hand can help if questions arise and is essential for destinations with specific entry requirements.

A legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional remains valuable. This letter should be on professional letterhead, include the professional’s license information, specify your mental health condition, and be dated within the past year.

When traveling with your animal as a pet, you’ll likely need a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 10 days of travel, confirming your animal is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. International travel typically requires additional health certificates.

Airlines often have their own pet travel forms that must be completed before your flight. Check your airline’s website or call their customer service line to obtain these forms well before your travel date.

How to Prepare Your ESA for Travel

Proper preparation can make the difference between a stressful journey and a manageable one for both you and your emotional support animal.

Begin carrier training weeks before your trip. Your animal needs to become comfortable spending extended periods in the carrier they’ll use during the flight. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time, providing treats and positive reinforcement.

Practice taking your ESA to busy public places to help them become accustomed to distractions. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “quiet” can help manage your animal’s behavior in the airport and during the flight.

Exercise your animal thoroughly before travel day to help reduce anxiety and energy levels. A tired animal is more likely to rest during the journey.

Packing essentials for your ESA should include familiar bedding, their favorite toy, sufficient food plus extra for delays, a collapsible water dish, waste bags, and any veterinarian-recommended calming aids.

In-Flight Experience with an ESA

Since your ESA will likely need to remain in their carrier under the seat for the duration of the flight, comfort is paramount. Place familiar-smelling items in the carrier and position it so you can make eye contact with your animal.

During the flight, speak softly to your animal to help them stay calm. Some travelers find that covering the carrier with a light blanket helps reduce visual stimulation that might cause anxiety.

Managing your own anxiety is equally important, as animals often pick up on their owner’s emotional state. Practice deep breathing or other calming techniques to help both you and your ESA remain relaxed.

For longer flights, prepare for limited opportunities to attend to your animal’s needs. If possible, request an aisle seat for easier access. Research pet relief areas in terminals for connecting flights.

Alternative Travel Options if Airlines Do Not Allow ESAs

When air travel with your emotional support animal seems too restrictive, several alternatives might better accommodate your needs.

Ground transportation often provides more flexibility. Amtrak allows small pets on trips under seven hours for a fee. Some regional trains and bus services have pet-friendly policies worth investigating.

Car travel offers the most control over your journey and your animal’s comfort. Plan your route with pet-friendly accommodations in mind for longer trips.

Charter flights present another option for those with flexibility in their budget. While more expensive than commercial flights, some charter services have more accommodating policies for animals.

Through Heally’s network of healthcare providers, you can discuss how an emotional support animal might benefit your mental health and obtain legitimate documentation if appropriate. Our professionals understand the therapeutic benefits animals can provide.

Schedule a consultation with Heally today to discuss emotional support animal options and documentation for your mental health needs.