Which Airlines Still Allow Emotional Support Animals?
Emotional support animals (ESAs) have become an integral part of many people’s lives, providing comfort and companionship to those with mental or emotional disabilities. However, with increasing regulations and restrictions, it can be challenging to determine which airlines still allow emotional support animals on board. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the airlines that continue to accommodate ESAs, ensuring that those in need can travel comfortably with their furry friends.
Airline 1: American Airlines
American Airlines has a clear policy regarding emotional support animals, allowing them on flights as long as they meet certain criteria. Passengers must provide a letter from a licensed mental health professional, dated within one year of the flight, confirming the need for an ESA. Additionally, the animal must be on a leash or in a carrier at all times during the flight.
Airline 2: Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines also permits emotional support animals on flights, provided passengers have a valid letter from a mental health professional. The letter should detail the passenger’s disability and the necessity of the ESA. ESAs are allowed in the cabin, but they must be kept under the passenger’s control at all times.
Airline 3: United Airlines
United Airlines has a comprehensive policy for emotional support animals, requiring passengers to provide a letter from a mental health professional. The letter must be dated within one year of the flight and include information about the passenger’s disability and the role of the ESA. ESAs are allowed in the cabin, but they must be kept on a leash or in a carrier during the flight.
Airline 4: Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has a policy that allows emotional support animals on flights, provided passengers have a valid letter from a mental health professional. The letter should detail the passenger’s disability and the necessity of the ESA. ESAs are allowed in the cabin, but they must be kept on a leash or in a carrier during the flight.
Airline 5: Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines allows emotional support animals on flights, as long as passengers provide a letter from a mental health professional. The letter must be dated within one year of the flight and include information about the passenger’s disability and the role of the ESA. ESAs are allowed in the cabin, but they must be kept on a leash or in a carrier during the flight.
Conclusion
Traveling with an emotional support animal can be a daunting task, but many airlines still accommodate these special companions. By following the guidelines and requirements set forth by each airline, passengers can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both themselves and their furry friends. Always check with the airline directly for the most up-to-date information and policies regarding emotional support animals.
