Flying with an ESA: What Airli...

Flying with an ESA: What Airlines Accept ESA Transportation Letters?
March 4, 2025

Flying with an ESA: What Airlines Accept ESA Transportation Letters?

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide invaluable comfort to individuals facing emotional or psychological challenges. However, recent changes in airline regulations have significantly impacted the ability to travel with ESAs. This article explores the current landscape of airline policies regarding ESAs and highlights how PetCerts.com can assist in obtaining the necessary documentation for housing and travel accommodations.

Airline Policies on Emotional Support Animals

In recent years, the U.S. Department of Transportation revised its regulations, allowing airlines to classify ESAs as pets rather than service animals. Consequently, many U.S.-based airlines no longer offer special accommodations for ESAs, treating them under standard pet policies, which often include additional fees and restrictions.

Here’s an overview of some major airlines' current policies:

  • American Airlines: ESAs are considered pets and can travel in the cabin for a fee of $125 per pet, each way. Only cats and dogs are permitted.
  • Delta Airlines: Similar to American Airlines, ESAs are treated as pets, requiring a fee for in-cabin travel.
     
  • United Airlines: ESAs can travel as pets with applicable fees.
     
  • Southwest Airlines: Allows small cats and dogs to travel as pets in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way.
     
  • Alaska Airlines: Accepts ESAs as pets, with fees ranging from $100 to $150 per pet, each way.
     

It's essential to note that while ESAs are now generally treated as pets, Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) continue to receive accommodations similar to other service animals. PSDs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with psychiatric disabilities and are recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Most airlines allow PSDs to fly in the cabin without additional fees, provided proper documentation is presented.

How PetCerts.com Can Assist

Navigating the evolving regulations surrounding ESAs and PSDs can be challenging. PetCerts.com offers legitimate and affordable letters for both ESAs and PSDs, ensuring compliance with current laws and airline policies.

Services Offered by PetCerts.com:

  • ESA Housing Letter: Designed to help individuals avoid pet fees for housing, this letter ensures that your ESA is recognized under the Fair Housing Act.
     
  • PSD Housing Letter: Covers pet-related fees for housing, acknowledging the essential role of your PSD.
     
  • PSD Transportation Letter: Facilitates travel accommodations for your PSD, allowing them to accompany you on various modes of transportation, including planes and trains.
     
  • PSD Housing & Transportation Letters: A comprehensive package that accommodates both housing and travel needs for your PSD.
     

Why Choose PetCerts.com?

  • Licensed Mental Health Professionals: PetCerts.com connects clients with licensed therapists who conduct thorough evaluations to determine eligibility for ESA or PSD letters.
     
  • Affordable Pricing: Understanding financial constraints, PetCerts.com offers competitive pricing, with their ESA Housing Letter priced at $95 annually.
     
  • Fast Processing: PetCerts.com aims to complete all orders within 24 hours, ensuring prompt delivery of your documentation.
     
  • Comprehensive Support: Beyond providing letters, PetCerts.com offers ongoing assistance, helping clients address any issues with housing providers or airlines to ensure their rights are upheld.
     

While recent regulatory changes have altered the landscape for flying with ESAs, options remain available, especially for those with PSDs. Obtaining legitimate documentation is crucial for securing the necessary accommodations for both housing and travel. PetCerts.com stands out as a trusted provider, offering affordable and legitimate ESA and PSD letters, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need without unnecessary financial strain.