Understanding Allegiant's Revised Policy On Emotional Support Animals

Q: Can my dog sit on my lap during an Allegiant flight?

There are two cases: Service Animals: Allegiant Air permits fully trained service dogs to sit on their handler's lap during the flight, provided the dog is no larger than a typical two-year-old child (approximately 30 pounds). This accommodation confirms the safety and comfort of both the passenger and the animal. Larger service dogs must remain on the floor in front of the passenger's seat and should not obstruct aisles or other passengers' space. Pets: Pets traveling under Allegiant's pet policy are required to remain in an approved carrier throughout the flight. The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you, and pets are not allowed to be removed from the carrier or sit on your lap at any time during the flight. This policy is in place to guarantee the safety and comfort of all passengers on board.

In accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation's 2021 regulations, Allegiant Air no longer recognizes emotional support animals (ESAs). According to the DOT’s updated airline policy, ESAs are now treated as pets and must comply with Allegiant's pet policies, including a non-refundable fee of $50 per segment per carrier. Only domestic dogs and cats are permitted, and they must travel in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. For more detailed information, let’s move on to the next section.

Allegiant Air’s In-Cabin Policy For Pets

Allegiant Air allows small domestic pets to travel in the cabin on flights within the contiguous 48 United States. To promote a comfortable journey for both passengers and their pets, the airline has established specific guidelines.

Key regulations for in-cabin pet travel

Accepted Pets

Only domestic dogs and cats are permitted.
Each traveler is allowed one pet carrier, with a maximum of two pets per carrier, provided they fit comfortably.

Carrier Requirements

Carriers must be soft-sided or hard-sided, leak-proof, and fully enclosed.
Maximum Dimensions: 9 inches (height) x 16 inches (width) x 19 inches (depth).
Pets should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
The carrier counts toward the carry-on baggage allowance; passengers may bring a pet carrier plus a personal item or a paid carry-on bag, but not both.

Age & Health Requirements

Pets must be at least eight weeks old.
While a health certificate is not required, pets should be in good health, non-disruptive, and odorless.

Fees

A non-refundable fee of $50 per segment, per carrier, applies.

In-Flight & Airport Protocol

Pets must remain inside the carrier at all times within the airport terminal and onboard the aircraft.
Carriers should be placed under the seat during takeoff and landing.
Passengers with pets cannot occupy exit rows, the row before or after an exit row, or bulkhead seats.

Check-In Requirements

Passengers traveling with pets must check in with an Allegiant agent at the ticket counter or gate counter at least one hour before scheduled departure to guarantee compliance with all guidelines.

Additional Considerations

Allegiant does not transport pets in the cargo hold.
The airline assumes no responsibility for the health and well-being of pets during travel.
Passengers are advised to consult TSA guidelines for information on clearing security with pets.

Cargo Travel For ESAs & Pets Under Allegiant Policies

Allegiant Air does not offer options for pets or ESAs to travel as checked baggage or in cargo. All pets must travel in the cabin, adhering to the airline's in-cabin pet policies. For larger animals that cannot be accommodated in-cabin, alternative transportation arrangements will need to be considered, as Allegiant does not provide cargo services for live animals. To produce a smooth travel experience, it's recommended to review Allegiant's pet policies in detail and make necessary adjustments well in advance of your travel date.

Important Allegiant Air Rules For Traveling With ESAs & Psychiatric Service Animals

Passengers traveling with ESAs or PSDs must adhere to specific documentation and behavior requirements to secure a seamless travel experience.

Required Documentation for PSDs
Passengers must present a completed U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form, attesting to the animal's health, behavior, and training. Plus, travelers must present three fully completed forms:
- Form 1 – Veterinary Health Form: Completed by a licensed veterinarian, confirming the animal's health and vaccinations.
- Form 2 – Mental Health Professional Form: Completed by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) or medical physician treating the passenger's emotional or mental disorders, dated within one year of the travel date.
- Form 3 – Animal Behavior & Responsibility Form: Completed by the passenger, affirming the animal's behavior and the passenger's responsibility.
Advance Notice
These forms must be presented to an Allegiant representative at least 45 minutes to 1 hour prior to the scheduled departure at the ticket counter or gate. Allegiant recommends submitting the required documentation well before travel to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Animal Behavior & Control
The animal must be under the handler's control at all times, using a leash, harness, or tether. It should not display disruptive behavior such as growling, biting, or excessive barking. Allegiant reserves the right to deny transport to any animal displaying threatening actions.
Size Limitations
The animal must fit within the passenger's foot space without stepping on other passengers' areas. If the animal cannot be accommodated within these space constraints, the passenger may be required to purchase an additional seat or make alternative travel arrangements.
Breed Restrictions
Certain animals are on a no-fly list of Allegiant, such as pit bulls or pit bull-type breeds, to travel as service animals. Only domestic dogs, miniature horses, and cats are permitted.

Key Highlights Of Allegiant Air’s Updated ESA & Pet Policies

Following the U.S. Department of Transportation's 2021 regulations, Allegiant Air has updated its policies regarding ESAs and pets:

Emotional Support Animals Reclassified

As of 2021, Allegiant Air no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. Passengers wishing to travel with ESAs must adhere to the airline's pet policies, which include specific size requirements, approved carriers, and applicable fees.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Permitted

Allegiant allows small domestic cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on flights within the 48 United States. Pets must be transported in an FAA-approved, soft-sided, and leak-proof carrier that fits under the seat with maximum dimensions of 9 inches (in height) x 16 inches (wide) x 19 inches (deep). Each passenger is permitted one pet carrier, which counts toward the carry-on baggage allowance. A non-refundable fee of $50 per segment, per carrier, applies.

No Cargo / Checked Baggage Pet Travel

Allegiant Air does not offer options for pets to travel as checked baggage or in cargo. All pets must travel in the cabin, adhering to the in-cabin pet travel policies.

Service Animals Accepted With Documentation

Allegiant continues to accept fully trained service animals, including psychiatric service dogs, at no additional charge. Passengers must provide appropriate documentation and ensure the animal meets the airline's behavior and size requirements. Prior notice is recommended to facilitate a smooth travel experience.

Advance Notification Encouraged

Passengers planning to travel with dogs, pets, or service animals are supposed to inform Allegiant Air in advance (about one hour before the flight’s departure). This guarantees compliance with all requirements and contributes to a seamless flight journey.

Key Highlights Of Allegiant ESA Policy

Allegiant Air's policies for traveling with animals are designed to confirm compliance with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Allegiant no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals; they must travel as pets under standard pet policies.
Only fully trained service dogs are permitted to accompany passengers with disabilities in the cabin, as per ACAA guidelines.
Small domestic cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin within a carrier not exceeding 9”H x 16”W x 19”D, with a fee of $50 per segment.
Each passenger is limited to one pet carrier, which counts toward the carry-on allowance; the carrier must fit under the seat.
Passengers traveling with pets or service animals should check in with an Allegiant agent at least one hour before departure to ensure compliance with all requirements.
All animals must be harmless, non-disruptive, and odorless; disruptive behavior may result in the denial of boarding.
While a health certificate is not required for pets, service animals may require specific documentation to verify their status.
Certain breeds, such as pit bulls and pit bull-type dogs, are not accepted on Allegiant flights.
Allegiant does not accept pets on international flights or flights to U.S. territories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strict is Allegiant's pet policy?

Allegiant Air enforces a strict pet policy for in-cabin travel, permitting only domestic dogs and cats on flights within the contiguous United States.

Each passenger may bring one pet carrier, subject to a non-refundable fee of $50 per segment.
The carrier must fit under the seat, measuring no larger than 9" H x 16" W x 19" L.
Pets must remain in their carriers throughout the flight and be harmless, odorless, and peaceful.
Additionally, passengers traveling with pets cannot occupy exit rows, bulkhead seats, or seats with no under-seat storage.

How do I add a pet to my Allegiant flight?

To add a pet to your Allegiant Air flight, you can include a "Pet in Cabin" option during the online booking process, paying the $50 fee per segment at that time. After booking, it's recommended to call Allegiant's customer service to confirm your pet's reservation. You must provide details such as your pet's name, breed, and weight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during an Allegiant flight?

There are two cases:

Service Animals: Allegiant Air permits fully trained service dogs to sit on their handler's lap during the flight, provided the dog is no larger than a typical two-year-old child (approximately 30 pounds). This accommodation confirms the safety and comfort of both the passenger and the animal. Larger service dogs must remain on the floor in front of the passenger's seat and should not obstruct aisles or other passengers' space.
Pets: Pets traveling under Allegiant's pet policy are required to remain in an approved carrier throughout the flight. The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you, and pets are not allowed to be removed from the carrier or sit on your lap at any time during the flight. This policy is in place to guarantee the safety and comfort of all passengers on board.

Can my ESA dog fly with me in the cabin?

Yes, when flying with a dog, you can keep them in the cabin; however, Allegiant Air treats ESAs as regular pets under their pet policy. This means that your ESA must meet the same requirements as other pets.

Can Allegiant deny my ESA?

Yes, Allegiant Air reserves the right to deny transport to any animal that does not comply with their pet policy. This includes animals that are:

Disruptive or Aggressive: Animals that display aggressive behavior or are disruptive to other passengers may be denied boarding.
Unhealthy or Unclean: Animals that appear ill or unclean may also be denied transport.

It is essential to certify that your ESA meets all the requirements set forth in Allegiant's pet policy to avoid any issues during travel.

Does Allegiant Air require a health certificate for dogs?

No, Allegiant Air does not require a health certificate for dogs traveling in the cabin. However, it is recommended that your pet is in good health and fit to fly.