Rules for Flying With a Service Dog

Service Dogs

• A service dog can accompany a person with a visual or hearing impairment on an airplane. Dogs trained to aid with seizure alerts, psychiatric comfort and emotional support are considered service dogs under U.S. federal government statutes.

Proof

• Passengers must present airline staff with proof the animal is a trained service dog. Accepted forms include identification cards, service harness, written authorization or credible visual or verbal statements when the need for a service animal is obvious to staff.

Seating

• Service dog laws allow the animals to sit with the passenger in need as long as emergency exits are not obstructed.

Fees and Exceptions

• Additional fees are not allowed when a service dog accompanies a passenger in need on a flight. Airline staff has the right to question or prohibit the use of an animal only if the dog poses a threat to others.

Dogs in Training

• Service animals in training are allowed to accompany a passenger or trainer onto a flight. Each airline designates its own policy governing the passage of animals that have not yet completed a service dog or emotional support program.