Traveling with a pet, especially a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD), can be a challenging experience. However, with the right documentation, such as a PSD transportation letter from PetCerts.com, it becomes significantly easier. If you’re flying from or within Texas, it’s essential to know which airlines accept these letters and what their specific policies and guidelines are. Below is a comprehensive guide to the major airlines operating in Texas that accept PSD letters, making your journey smoother and stress-free.
1. American Airlines
American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the largest carriers in the U.S. They have a well-defined policy for traveling with service animals, including PSDs.
Policy Overview: American Airlines requires passengers traveling with a service animal to submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form. This form needs to be completed at least 48 hours before the flight if the reservation was made more than 48 hours prior to departure.
Documentation: The PSD letter from PetCerts.com must outline the necessity of the service dog, which must be validated by a licensed mental health professional.
Guidelines: The service dog must fit on your lap or within your foot space on the aircraft.
2. Southwest Airlines
Based in Dallas, Texas, Southwest Airlines is renowned for its customer-friendly policies, including those related to service animals.
Policy Overview: Southwest Airlines accepts service dogs and requires a completed Service Animal Relief Attestation form. This form should be provided at the gate or ticket counter on the day of travel.
Documentation: A valid PSD letter from PetCerts.com must accompany the form. This letter should confirm the traveler's need for the service dog.
Guidelines: The service dog should be well-behaved and fit within the traveler's foot space without obstructing the aisle.
3. United Airlines
United Airlines, with a significant presence in Houston, also accommodates PSDs with the necessary documentation.
Policy Overview: United Airlines requires passengers to submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and the Service Animal Relief Attestation form. These forms should be submitted online at least 48 hours before the flight.
Documentation: A PSD letter from PetCerts.com must detail the traveler's need for the service animal and be completed by a licensed mental health professional.
Guidelines: The service dog must fit on the passenger's lap or within their foot space.
4. Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines, operating numerous flights out of Texas, has stringent yet clear policies for passengers traveling with PSDs.
Policy Overview: Delta requires the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, the Service Animal Relief Attestation form, and the Veterinary Health Form. These documents must be submitted online at least 48 hours before the flight.
Documentation: The PSD letter from PetCerts.com should confirm the necessity of the service dog for the traveler's mental health.
Guidelines: The service dog must be able to fit on the traveler's lap or within their foot space without blocking the aisle.
5. Spirit Airlines
Known for its budget-friendly flights, Spirit Airlines also operates extensively in Texas and accepts PSDs with proper documentation.
Policy Overview: Spirit Airlines requires the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and Service Animal Relief Attestation form to be submitted at least 48 hours prior to travel.
Documentation: The PSD letter from PetCerts.com must indicate the traveler's need for the service dog, verified by a licensed mental health professional.
Guidelines: The service dog should fit within the traveler's foot space or on their lap and must not obstruct the aisle.
Traveling with a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) becomes more manageable when you're aware of the specific airline policies and guidelines. Major airlines operating in Texas, such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, accept PSD transportation letters from PetCerts.com, ensuring that you and your service dog can travel with ease and comfort. Always ensure to check the latest airline policies before your journey, as regulations can change. Safe travels!