Delta Airlines Pet Travel Policy — AirHelpLive Overview

Traveling with your pet on Delta Airlines in 2025 requires following specific rules to ensure your furry or feathered friend’s safety and comfort. Here’s what you need to know about Delta’s pet travel guidelines, carrier requirements, fees, and restrictions.

Pets Allowed in Cabin

• Permitted Pets: Small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel in the cabin.

• Pet Age Requirements:

  • Domestic travel within the U.S.: at least 8 weeks old

  • International travel to the U.S.: dogs must be 6 months old, cats 16 weeks old

  • Travel to the European Union: pets must be 15 weeks old

• Carrier Requirements:

  • Must be a soft-sided, leak-proof, ventilated kennel that fits under the seat directly in front of you

  • Recommended maximum size: 18” x 11” x 11” (45 x 28 x 28 cm) to fit most aircraft

  • Pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the sides

• Kennel Rules:

  • Pet must remain inside the kennel with the door secured while in the airport boarding area, onboard the plane, and in Delta lounges

  • Only one carry-on pet kennel per customer is allowed

  • Pet counts as your single carry-on allowance

Fees & Booking

• There is a one-way pet travel fee collected at check-in for pets traveling in the cabin.

• Pets are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so book your pet’s space early by calling Delta Reservations or AirHelpLive.

• Some aircraft and seats do not accommodate pets in the cabin (e.g., bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, Delta One, and Premium Select seats).

Pets in Cargo (Checked or Shipped Separately)

• Larger pets or those not traveling in the cabin must be booked via Delta Cargo.

• Specific crates with rigid construction and ventilation are required, meeting guidelines by IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transportation Association).

• Pets must be checked in several hours prior to departure (4-6 hours domestic, 6 hours international) at designated cargo facilities.

• Delta Cargo offers pet shipping for a range of animals, with size limits and documentation requirements.

Health & Documentation

• A valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is mandatory within 10 days of travel.

• International travel may require additional permits and vaccinations, including USDA APHIS compliance.

• Some destinations and airports have additional restrictions or bans on pet travel.

Restrictions & Prohibited Destinations

• Pets are not allowed in the cabin or cargo to/from several destinations including Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Iceland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom, and UAE.

• Customers should contact Delta or AirHelpLive to confirm pet travel options on specific flights.

How AirHelpLive Helps You with Delta Pet Travel

• Confirm pet eligibility and kennel sizing before booking.

• Assist with booking pet travel space and necessary permits.

• Guide you through documentation requirements and fees.

• 24/7 expert support at +1-844-498-7378 to ensure smooth travels for you and your pet.

For complete details, visit the Delta Airline Customer Service page.

Fly with your pet confidently — AirHelpLive is your trusted Delta pet travel partner!