Passengers with disabilities are welcome to bring along their service animal on American Airlines flights. American Airlines offers special assistance as needed for passengers with disabilities to fly safely and comfortably.  

The airline staff may inquire about what types of training the service animal has received and they may observe the animal’s behavior and harness to make a determination that the animal is qualified for travel. They may not ask questions about the nature of your disability, however. If you have further questions about these protocols, you can read more about the rights and responsibilities of passengers with disabilities and their service animals. 


…HAVE EVERYTHING?


 


American Airlines Service Animal Policy
You can notify the airline that you plan to bring a service animal. This can be done online or by calling 800-543-1586. This may help the airline accommodate any special assistance you or your service animal may need.  

Service animals may be at your feet, or they may ride on your lap if they are small enough. You may also elect to put them in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. For security reasons, you won’t be able to sit in an exit row when traveling with your service animal. 

American Airlines no longer allows emotional support animals to travel as service animals. 

 

American Airlines Service Animal Travel Requirements
Follow these simple steps to ensure your service animal can travel with you on your next American Airlines flight.

  • Complete and sign this U.S. Department of Transportation form.
  • Complete and sign this U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Relief Attestation form, if applicable.
  • Submit the completed form here at least 48 hours before your departure time.
  • Keep a copy of the form with you during your travel.

After you have submitted these forms, American Airlines will approve your service animal and send you an email with your Service Animal ID.

Stay up-to-date on any additional documentation necessary for your service animal’s travel. Certain restrictions could make it more difficult for your service animal to fly if you do not have the proper paperwork. Some countries have different documentation requirements that you must meet in order to travel with your service animal.

 

Other Types of Pet and Animal Travel with American Airlines