Flying with Your ESA on Spirit Airlines: Important Updates

Hawaiian Airlines made changes to its ESA policy effective January 11, 2021. According to the recently changed airline polices, Emotional Support Animals are now considered pets and must adhere to pet travel rules. Trained service dogs are still allowed in the cabin for free, provided they meet specific training and behavior standards. If you have an ESA and want to get a fast ESA letter, you can easily get one from our licensed professional. Notify the airline 48 hours before departure and have all required documentation ready for a smooth experience.

Read more to learn about pet travel guidelines and service dog requirements.

Spirit Airlines Service Dog Guidelines

Spirit Airlines allows trained service dogs to travel in the aircraft cabin free of charge under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Passengers with disabilities must meet these guidelines:

Training
The service dog should be trained to assist with specific disability-related tasks.
Documentation
Required forms confirming the dog’s training, health, and behavior must be submitted at least 48 hours prior to the flight.
Behavior
Service dogs must stay calm and well-mannered throughout the journey. Disruptive dogs may not be allowed to board.

Spirit Airlines Breed Restrictions

Spirit Airlines does not allow aggressive or snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dog and cat breeds to travel due to safety concerns. Breeds such as pit bulls, bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats, and similar breeds may be restricted from flying, especially in warm weather. Always check the latest list of restricted breeds on Spirit’s website before booking to ensure your pet is eligible for travel.

Safe Travel for Pets and Service Dogs on Spirit Airlines

Whether you’re flying with a pet or a service dog, Spirit Airlines provides clear instructions to make your experience stress-free.

Pet Carrier Specifications
Your pet’s carrier must comply with Spirit Airlines’ requirements. It should fit under the seat and offer enough space for the animal to move comfortably. Proper ventilation is also a must to keep your pet safe.
Required Documents for Travel
Spirit Airlines might ask for proof of vaccinations or a health certificate for pets or service dogs. Be sure to have all your paperwork ready to ensure a hassle-free check-in process.
Behavioral Standards for Service Dogs
Service dogs must behave appropriately during the flight. Any signs of aggression or disruptive actions could lead to boarding being denied.
Notify in Advance
To make your travel experience smoother, Spirit Airlines advises notifying them at least 48 hours before your flight if you’re bringing a pet or service dog. This allows for better preparation and avoids last-minute issues.

Spirit Airlines ESA and Pet Travel Policy Updates

According to Spirit Airlines’ updated pet policy, they are no longer allowed the same rights as service animals. However, they are still allowed to travel on board. Here is a brief look at the new policy:

No More Emotional Support Animals
Spirit Airlines no longer accepts ESAs as service animals. Instead, ESAs are classified as pets and are subject to the airline's standard pet travel policies. This includes fees and size requirements for in-cabin travel.
Pets Are Allowed in the Cabin
Spirit Airlines permits traveling with dogs, cats, small animals, and household birds in the cabin. . The pet must fit comfortably in a ventilated carrier that can be stowed under the seat. Pet fees for domestic and international routes vary, so be sure to check the current rates on Spirit Airlines' website.
Service Dogs Fly Free
Spirit Airlines continues to allow trained service dogs to accompany passengers with disabilities in the cabin at no additional charge. To qualify, the service dog must be trained to assist with specific tasks related to the passenger’s disability and meet the airline’s behavior standards. Advance notification is required at least 48 hours before the flight.
Larger Pets Travel as Cargo
If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin, Spirit Airlines provides cargo travel options. Fees depend on the pet's size, weight, and destination. All pets traveling as cargo must be in airline-approved kennels or dog crates that meet Spirit's safety requirements.

Key Takeaways: Spirit Airlines ESA Policy

Service dogs can travel for free in the cabin with passengers with disabilities.
The dog must be trained to assist with specific disability-related tasks.
Passengers must submit health, behavior, and training documentation 48 hours before the flight.
Service dogs must remain calm and well-behaved during the flight.
Disruptive behavior may lead to denied boarding for the service dog.
Only trained service dogs are permitted, not emotional support animals.
Spirit Airlines follows the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) guidelines.
Advanced notice helps ensure a smooth travel experience for both passengers and service dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Spirit require a health certificate for dogs?

Yes, Spirit Airlines requires health documentation for service dogs traveling in the cabin. This includes proof that the dog is healthy and fit for travel. Although health certificates are not typically required for emotional support animals (ESAs), it’s always a good idea to check with the airline before your flight to ensure you have all necessary documents.

Can I bring my Emotional Support Animal (ESA) on a Spirit flight?

No, as of January 2021, Spirit Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin. ESAs are now treated as pets and must follow the airline’s pet policies, including size and carrier requirements. ESAs will also incur standard pet fees.

How do I notify Spirit Airlines about traveling with a psychiatric service dog?

You must notify Spirit Airlines at least 48 hours before your flight if you plan to travel with a service dog. This allows the airline to confirm your dog's training and health documentation and ensure there is enough space for your service dog on board.

Are there any size restrictions for service dogs traveling on Spirit Airlines?

No, Spirit Airlines does not impose size restrictions for service dogs as long as they are trained to assist with disability-related tasks. However, the dog must remain under the passenger’s control and should not obstruct aisles or seats.

Can my service dog sit on my lap during the flight?

No, your service dog must remain on the floor in the area in front of your seat or at your feet. The dog cannot sit on your lap or block aisles. This ensures safety for both passengers and service animals.

Do I need to pay any fees for traveling with a service dog?

No, Spirit Airlines does not charge any fees for trained service dogs traveling with passengers with disabilities. However, if you bring a pet or an ESA, standard pet fees will apply.

What happens if my service dog is disruptive during the flight?

If your service dog becomes disruptive during the flight, such as barking excessively or acting aggressively, Spirit Airlines reserves the right to deny boarding. It’s essential to ensure that your service dog is well-behaved and able to remain calm throughout the journey.

Can I travel with my ESA on Spirit Airlines if I have a connecting flight?

Unfortunately, Spirit Airlines no longer accepts ESAs, so they will need to be transported as pets, which may affect your connection. You will need to check with the airline for their pet policies during layovers and connecting flights, including any required stops for pet relief.