Traveling with your furry friend can be an exciting adventure, but navigating airline pet policies can be daunting. This comprehensive guide will clarify Allegiant Air's pet carrier size requirements, addressing common concerns and ensuring a smooth journey for you and your beloved animal companion. We'll delve into specifics, answer frequently asked questions, and offer tips to make your travel experience as stress-free as possible.
Understanding Allegiant Air's Pet Policy:
Allegiant Air permits small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, provided they meet specific criteria. Crucially, your pet, including its carrier, must fit under the seat in front of you. This is where precise measurements become paramount. Remember, exceeding these dimensions will result in your pet being refused travel in the cabin, potentially leading to costly changes to your plans.
What are the Allegiant Air Pet Carrier Size Restrictions?
There isn't a single, universally stated maximum size for carriers on Allegiant. Instead, they emphasize that the carrier must fit entirely under the seat in front of you. This means the dimensions are dictated by the available space under each aircraft's seat. These vary slightly between aircraft types. To avoid any surprises, contact Allegiant Air directly before your flight to confirm the available space on your specific aircraft. This is the most reliable way to ensure your pet's carrier meets the requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Allegiant Air Pet Carriers:
What are the typical dimensions of a pet carrier that fits under an Allegiant Air seat?
While there isn't an official size limit, most passengers successfully transport small pets in carriers with dimensions approximately 17 inches long x 11 inches wide x 7 inches high. However, this is a general guideline. Always double-check with Allegiant Air before your flight, and consider measuring the space under the seat on a similar aircraft if possible.
Can I use a soft-sided carrier for my pet on Allegiant Air?
Soft-sided carriers are generally acceptable, provided they maintain their shape and size and fit comfortably under the seat. However, a rigid or hard-shell carrier offers superior protection for your pet during the flight.
What if my pet is slightly too big for the under-seat carrier requirements?
If your pet doesn't meet the cabin pet requirements, you will have to check it as cargo. This requires additional paperwork and comes with additional fees and regulations, which may vary depending on the destination and the size/breed of your pet. Contact Allegiant Air's customer service well in advance of your flight to explore this option.
What kind of carrier is recommended for Allegiant Air travel?
A well-ventilated, sturdy carrier that offers ample room for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably is recommended. Whether it is hard-sided or soft-sided, the critical factor is that it fits completely under the seat.
Are there any weight restrictions for pets traveling in the cabin with Allegiant Air?
While there isn't a specific published weight limit for cabin pets, the overall size and weight must allow the carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. An oversized or overweight pet might not be allowed on board even in a compliant carrier.
What documents are required for my pet to fly with Allegiant Air?
You'll likely need health certificates from your veterinarian, especially for interstate or international travel. Confirm the specific requirements with Allegiant Air and your veterinarian well in advance of your flight date.
Pro-Tip: Always measure your pet and the carrier together to account for any extra padding or space needed for comfort. A slightly smaller carrier is better than one that is too large. It’s also wise to contact Allegiant customer service directly to verify carrier size compliance on your specific flight.
Remember, responsible pet ownership extends to air travel. Planning ahead and confirming all requirements with Allegiant Air well in advance will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip for both you and your beloved companion.
