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Best Airline Approved Dog Carrier (2024 Update)

If you’re looking for a way to travel with your furry friend, finding the best airline approved dog carrier is a must. Before making a purchase, there are a few factors one should consider. First, the size of the carrier must comply with airline regulations and fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Additionally, the carrier should have proper ventilation and be durable enough to withstand travel wear and tear. Finally, the carrier should be comfortable and safe for your pup, providing them with adequate space to move and rest.

When shopping for an airline approved dog carrier, it's important to ask yourself some questions. What breed are you traveling with, and how much space do they need? Is your dog comfortable in a confined space, or do they need a larger carrier? Do you need additional features such as wheels or pockets for storage? By asking these questions, you can ensure that you choose a carrier that meets both you and your pet's needs.

In summary, traveling with your pup can be a wonderful experience if you have the right gear. Finding the best airline approved dog carrier is an essential part of that gear. By considering factors such as size, durability, and comfort, and asking the right questions, you'll be able to choose a carrier that both you and your furry friend will love.

10 Best Airline Approved Dog Carrier

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for pet owners who need a soft-sided carrier that is airline approved and fits under seats.
2
It is an ideal carrier for small pets such as kittens, puppies, and rabbits when traveling by plane or car.
3
Ideal for transporting small pets comfortably and securely.
4
This product is ideal for transporting small pets such as cats and puppies in a soft-sided, expandable carrier.
5
The product is ideal for pet owners who need an airline-approved and guaranteed on board carrier for medium-sized pets.
6
Ideal for transporting small to medium-sized cats or puppies up to 15 pounds on airlines and other travel.
7
The product is ideal for transporting pets on airplanes in compliance with airline regulations.
8
This product is ideal for transporting small pets on airplanes, as it meets airline and TSA requirements.
9
The product is ideal for transporting pets on flights with JetBlue Airlines.
10
Ideal for transporting small pets such as kittens, puppies, rabbits, and hamsters on airplanes or in cars. It is washable and approved by airlines.
This product is ideal for pet owners who need a soft-sided carrier that is airline approved and fits under seats.
It is an ideal carrier for small pets such as kittens, puppies, and rabbits when traveling by plane or car.
This product is ideal for transporting small pets such as cats and puppies in a soft-sided, expandable carrier.
The product is ideal for pet owners who need an airline-approved and guaranteed on board carrier for medium-sized pets.
Ideal for transporting small to medium-sized cats or puppies up to 15 pounds on airlines and other travel.
The product is ideal for transporting pets on airplanes in compliance with airline regulations.
This product is ideal for transporting small pets on airplanes, as it meets airline and TSA requirements.
The product is ideal for transporting pets on flights with JetBlue Airlines.
Ideal for transporting small pets such as kittens, puppies, rabbits, and hamsters on airplanes or in cars. It is washable and approved by airlines.

1. Gold Series Pet Tote With Locking Zippers

Before purchasing this pet carrier, it is important to note the interior sizing and pet measuring guidelines to ensure that it will fit your pet comfortably. This carrier is designed to fit pets up to 16 inches long and 9 inches high, weighing up to 15 pounds. It is important to keep in mind that airline regulations require pets to lie down during flights, meaning that they may not be able to stand up in the carrier.

The exterior dimensions of the carrier are provided along with approximate interior dimensions, which take into account the thickness of the fabric and plush faux fleece padding. The carrier is designed with rounded contours, making the interior dimensions approximate and shown at their maximum measured points.

It is essential to keep in mind that each airline has its own specific requirements for pet carriers, which can vary between domestic, international, and shuttle services. Therefore, it is recommended to check with your airline of choice before purchasing this carrier to ensure it complies with their regulations. However, this carrier is designed to comply with major airline configurations, and all airlines require pets to be comfortable in the carrier and remain under the seat in front of you.

This pet carrier is designed to be strong and waterproof, weighing only 2.7 pounds. It is constructed with breathable mesh on all sides for proper ventilation, ensuring your pet's comfort during flights. The carrier also comes with a removable fleece travel bed with a plywood base for additional support, a padded shoulder strap, a name tag, zippered mesh storage for treats, meds, and papers, seatbelt attachments, and the included Mr. Peanut's cool logo storage pouch that folds down to 3 inches for easy storage.

The carrier is designed with a ventilated top to meet all airline regulations for under forward seat compatibility, including Delta, Southwest, United, American, Virgin, and others. With its various features, this pet carrier is a reliable and comfortable option for traveling with your furry friend.

2. Petsfit Airline Approved Expandable Pet Carrier

Introducing the Expandable Soft-Side Carrier, a must-have for pet owners who love to travel with their furry friends. This carrier comes in a compact S size of 16"Lx 10"Wx 9"H, but can be expanded to a spacious 23.5"Lx16"Wx 9"H by simply opening the 2 mesh windows. It is lightweight, weighing only around 2.5lbs, and can accommodate pets up to 9lbs, making it perfect for rabbits, bunnies, chinchillas, ferrets, and other small animals. However, it is important to verify the measurements prior to booking to ensure a comfortable fit for your pet.

One of the standout features of this carrier is the extra extended space, which allows pets to sprawl out, lay down, and see all around. This makes it perfect for use during flights, car rides, or even as a comfortable bed for pets to relax in. When not in use, the carrier can be folded totally flat, making it easy to store.

Crafted from durable materials, this carrier boasts a solid wire structure that keeps it from collapsing, yet is flexible enough to compress to fit under an airplane seat. The top and two-sided windows are made of anti-scratch ventilated mesh, ensuring that your pet stays comfortable and well-ventilated during travel. The actual PP board base helps to hold all pets steady, while the thick, comfy, washable, and removable plush pad serves as a base cover. The well-stitched Oxford cloth material ensures long-term use, making it a great investment for pet owners.

The Expandable Soft-Side Carrier offers multiple ways to carry, including a self-lock zipper to prevent pets from escaping, a strap on one side that can be slid around the extendable handle of rolling luggage, and two flexible handles to hold with your hands. Additionally, it provides a longer, detachable strap to hang on the shoulders and has a side pocket for storage, making it perfect for pet owners on the go.

This carrier is airline approved, making it easy to travel with. The S and M sizes are in compliance with airline standard size rules and can easily fit under the airplane seat. As for the size of L, it is best to check the size standard of the corresponding airline. Please note that there are two detachable fiber rods on both sides of the top of the carrier. When the large carrier is too high to fit under the seat, you can remove the two fiber optic rods and put them in easily.

3. Petsfit 5-Sided Breathable Mesh Pet Carriers, Soft Cat Carrier, Lightweight Soft Pet Carrier

This soft pet carrier is perfect for those who want to travel with their furry friend. Measuring 18"L x 11"W x 11”H, it is suitable for small and medium pets within 16" x 9" x 9"(smaller than product) and up to 18 lbs. It is also airline approved, conforming to under-seat dimensions of most airlines, like American Airlines and Delta Air, making it easy to take your pet on a walk-and-go trip.

The pet carrier is highly portable, featuring a handle and adjustable soft padded shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry by hand or shoulder, or even fixing it on a suitcase. It also comes with a side pocket that can hold your pet supplies, ensuring that you're always prepared for any situation. When not in use, it can be easily folded flat for storage.

The safety of your pet is of utmost importance, and this pet carrier comes with a built-in safety tether inside to keep your pet from jumping out. The self-locking metal zipper head also prevents pets from escaping, while the back strap can fasten the carrier to your luggage or car seat for secure transporting. These features ensure that your pet can travel safely and comfortably.

The pet carrier is designed to provide maximum comfort for your pet during travel. It is ventilated on 5 sides, and has 2 opening design that allows ample legroom inside. Additionally, it comes equipped with a removable washable soft fleece pad to ensure your pet gets the maximum comfort when going out or traveling.

Durability is also a key feature of this pet carrier. The wire frame keeps the pet carrier in shape even on long trips without collapsing on the pet. The durable Oxford fabric, upgraded scratch-resistant mesh, precision stitching, and high-quality metal accessories increase the durability of the portable pet carrier.

4. Siivton Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier – Expandable!

The Siivton Pet Travel Carrier is an excellent option for pet owners who are looking for a safe, sturdy, and spacious carrier for their furry friends. Measuring at 18"x 11"x 11", pet owners are advised to measure their pets before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit. The carrier can also be expanded to 38" x 30" x 11" by unzipping the four mesh windows, providing extra room for pets to move around.

The carrier is made with Oxford and high-density EVA board for protection, ensuring that it remains upright and secure during transportation. The four-way expansion feature is easy to fold down and unzip, allowing pets to stay comfortable and reducing anxiety caused by confinement. The carrier is also airline-approved, making it an ideal option for pets that need to travel by air.

Cleaning the carrier is made easy as the cozy fleece pet bed can be completely removed and machine-washed. The carrier is also versatile and can be worn over the shoulder, secured in the car with a seatbelt, placed atop luggage, or carried with the top handle.

Pet owners can rest easy knowing that their pets will enjoy maximum air circulation while inside the carrier, thanks to its multiple mesh windows. The carrier also features zippers on both the top and side, making it easy to put pets in and out of the carrier.

When receiving the carrier, pet owners are advised to pull the zipper slowly during the first installation to ensure that the product is used for a long time. For pet owners with pets similar in size to the carrier, it is recommended to choose the large size for a more comfortable fit.

5. Sherpa Delta Airlines Travel Pet Carrier, Airline Approved & Guaranteed On Board – Black, Medium

The Sherpa Delta Airlines Pet Carrier is a top-of-the-line product that is approved by airlines and is part of the Guaranteed On Board program, which guarantees comfort and peace of mind for both pets and their owners. This pet carrier is perfect for air, bus, car, or train travel, making it a versatile and convenient option for pet owners who love to travel with their furry friends.

The patented spring wire frame of this carrier allows the rear end to be pushed down several inches, making it easy to fit under airplane seats in compliance with most major airline requirements and FAA regulations. This feature allows pet owners to bring their pets with them in the cabin, making air travel more convenient and comfortable for both pets and their owners.

The Sherpa Delta Airlines Pet Carrier features mesh panels for ventilation, escape-proof locking zippers, top and side entries for easy and comfortable loading, a waterproof interior base, and a removable machine washable cozy base liner. These features ensure that pets are comfortable and safe during travel, and that the carrier is easy to clean and maintain.

This pet carrier is designed to be versatile and multifunctional. It can be carried by hand with the padded top handle, or over the shoulder using the included detachable carrying strap and integrated metal D-rings. This allows pet owners to choose the carrying method that is most comfortable and convenient for them.

The Sherpa Delta Airlines Pet Carrier can also be used as a soft-sided crate for regular outings and vet visits with cats and small dogs. It includes a large storage pocket for treats, leashes, poop bags, and other small accessories, making it a convenient and practical product for pet owners who are always on the go.

This product comes in black, medium size, and measures 17" x 11" x 10.5", fitting pets up to 16 pounds. When choosing the right carrier size, it is important to consider the pet's measurements and weight to ensure that they fit comfortably and that the maximum weight limit is not exceeded. It is also important to allow enough space for the pet to change positions inside the carrier.

6. Henkelion Soft-Sided Pet Carrier – Grey

Looking for a reliable pet carrier to take your furry friend with you on your travels? Look no further than this Airline Approved Carrier. With its airline-approved design, you can rest assured that your pet will be able to travel with you wherever you go.

This pet carrier features two connecting loop handles that allow for balanced carrying, making it easy to transport your pet as a dual seat belt or luggage strap. Additionally, the adjustable shoulder strap allows for hands-free carrying, making it a safe and convenient option for your travel needs.

Made of durable and lightweight polyester fabric, this cat carrier is built to last. The four-side mesh provides a safe and comfortable travel experience for your pet, while also allowing you to check on your furry friend with ease.

Not only is this carrier durable and safe, it's also incredibly portable and foldable. With padded shoulder straps and handles, it's easy to carry and store when not in use.

Designed for small and medium pets within 15" x 9" x 9" (smaller than product) and 15 lbs, this carrier is suitable for a range of pets. When selecting a carrier size, it's important to reference your pet's length and height rather than just their weight.

7. Sherpa® Original Deluxe™ Airline Approved Pet Carrier, Medium, Black

The perfect companion for any adventure, the pet carrier allows for style and comfort when traveling by plane or car. With its patented spring wire frame, the carrier easily conforms to under-seat requirements by allowing the rear end to be pushed down several inches. Safety is ensured with locking zippers, while mesh windows provide ventilation for your furry friend.

Carrying the carrier is a breeze with the padded adjustable, no-slip strap, and it can also be secured with a seat belt or luggage strap. The machine-washable faux lambskin liner provides extra comfort, while the rear pocket is perfect for storing treats, a leash, or bags.

Approved for use on most airlines and included in Sherpa’s Guaranteed on Board program, the medium-sized carrier accommodates pets up to 16" L x 10" H and up to 16 lbs. It measures 17” L x 11” W x 10.5” H, but it is important not to select the carrier size based on weight alone. Instead, choose the carrier size based on your pet’s measurements first, then make sure not to exceed the maximum weight limit.

The carrier is designed for safe and comfortable travel, and while your pet will not have excess room to move around, they will still be comfortable and secure throughout the journey. Trust in the quality and reliability of the pet carrier for your next adventure with your furry friend.

8. Purrfect Pet Flights With Smiling Paws Carrier

Introducing the Extra Small Airline Approved Pet Carrier, perfect for small cats and dogs weighing under 15 lbs. Measuring only 9 inches tall, this carrier is specifically designed to fit under all airplane seats, making it the ideal choice for pet owners who love to travel with their furry friends.

This soft carrier is packed with features to ensure your pet's comfort and safety. It can be extended on all four sides, creating a comfortable space for your pet to move around in. The carrier also comes with an internal leash, safety self-locking zippers, reinforced rotating metallic clips, and a soft machine-washable pad. The superb air circulation and thickly padded shoulder and handle holders ensure that your pet stays comfortable and happy throughout the journey.

The 4-way expansion and top entry design of this carrier reduces anxiety during travel, allowing your pet to move around freely. It is a great choice for small pets like cats, puppies, and rabbits.

This airline-approved carrier is designed to comply with TSA and IATA requirements and is compliant with USA and international airlines' under-seat in-cabin dimensions (max 9” height) for soft pet carriers for cats and small dogs. You can travel with ease, knowing that your pet is safe and secure in this carrier.

The Extra Small Airline Approved Pet Carrier is made with upgraded materials, making it perfect for rambunctious animals. Every inch of this tote is reinforced, and it comes with A-Grade metallic clips, high-quality rods, safety self-locking zippers, and an internal leash. In addition, the internal fabric is laminated and leak-proof, ensuring that any spills or accidents are contained.

This carrier is also portable and collapsible, making it easy to take with you on the go. The thickly padded shoulder straps and handles make it easy to handle during travel, and it is compact and easy to fold for storage.

9. Jetpaws Official Pet Carrier Of Jetblue Airlines Blue 16 Inches

This pet carrier is designed for convenience and comfort, both for your furry friend and for you. With five pockets for accessories and three mesh panels, you can easily store all the necessary items and ensure that your pet stays well-ventilated throughout the journey. The carrier is lined with a washable pad that provides extra comfort for your pet, while also making it easy to clean. The adjustable and detachable shoulder strap allows you to customize the carrier for your own comfort, while the lightweight and durable design ensures that it will last through many trips to come. Whether you're going to the vet or on a road trip, this pet carrier will make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your pet.

10. Petsfit Airline-Approved Pet Carrier – Black

This pet carrier is a top-of-the-line choice for pet owners who frequently travel with their furry friends. Measuring 18.9" x 12" x 9"H, this carrier is recommended for pets up to 16lbs and is airline approved for safe and convenient travel. It can be positioned horizontally or vertically, and the top can be compressed down by 0.5%, making it a versatile and practical option for pet transport.

Safety and comfort are top priorities for pet owners, and this carrier delivers both. It features three openings, each with two self-locking zippers and built-in safety ropes to connect your pet's collar. The bottom of both placement methods is equipped with soft cushions that are removable and washable, providing extra comfort and cleanliness for your pets.

This pet carrier is made of durable, lightweight, and waterproof polyester fiber with tight stitching, ensuring it is built to last. The solid wire structure keeps it from collapsing, yet it's flexible enough to compress to fit under an airplane seat. The hard wood board base helps to keep pets stable during travel, ensuring a safe and secure journey for all.

The carrier has three mesh windows that ensure proper air circulation, facilitating communication between pets and their owners. This ventilation design is essential to prevent any discomfort or distress for pets during travel.

The carrier also features various convenient and intimate designs making it easy for pet owners to carry and transport their pets. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the side pockets can store pet items. The zipper design opening on the back can be safely tied to a trolley case, and the two straps at the bottom allow the carrier to be fixed on a car seat belt. These additional features make the carrier a versatile and practical option for pet owners who frequently travel.

Best Airline Approved Dog Carrier FAQs

Are there any additional safety features to look for in an airline approved dog carrier?

Yes, there are several additional safety features that you should look for in an airline approved dog carrier. Firstly, the carrier should be made of sturdy and durable materials that can withstand the rigors of air travel. Look for carriers that are made of hard-sided plastic or reinforced fabric.

Secondly, the carrier should have secure fastenings and locking mechanisms to prevent your dog from escaping during the flight. Some carriers have double door latches or additional locking mechanisms that can provide added security.

Thirdly, ensure that the carrier has proper ventilation to keep your dog comfortable during the flight. Look for carriers with mesh panels or ventilation holes to allow for adequate airflow.

Additionally, the carrier should be the appropriate size for your dog, allowing them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Lastly, you should also consider purchasing a carrier with a padded interior to provide extra comfort for your dog during the flight. Some carriers also have removable and washable liners, making it easier to clean up any messes.

Overall, it is important to choose a carrier that meets your dog's needs and provides a safe and comfortable travel experience.

Are there any specific requirements for airline approved dog carriers?

Yes, there are specific requirements for airline approved dog carriers that pet owners must adhere to when traveling with their furry companions. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set guidelines for pet carriers that must be followed by airlines.

Firstly, the carrier must be large enough for the dog to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably. It should also be well-ventilated with secure latches and doors. The carrier should also have a waterproof bottom and absorbent bedding to keep the pet dry and comfortable during the trip.

Additionally, the carrier must fit under the airline seat in front of the passenger, and the dog should not be able to escape or stick out of the carrier. The carrier must also be labeled with the pet's information, including their name, destination, and contact details of the owner.

It is important to note that airlines may have their own additional requirements, so it is best to check with the airline before traveling to ensure that the carrier meets their guidelines.

Can I bring my own airline approved dog carrier on a flight or do I need to rent one?

Yes, you can bring your own airline-approved dog carrier on a flight. However, it is important to make sure that the carrier meets the airline's size and weight restrictions, and that it is labeled as approved by the airline. It is also important to ensure that your dog is comfortable in the carrier and that it has enough ventilation and space to move around. If you are unsure about the airline's requirements or have any questions, it is recommended to contact the airline directly before your flight to avoid any issues or complications. Additionally, some airlines may offer rental carriers if you do not have your own, but it is always best to check in advance to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Can I use an airline approved dog carrier for other modes of transportation, such as car travel?

Yes, you can use an airline approved dog carrier for other modes of transportation, such as car travel. Airline approved dog carriers are designed to meet certain safety standards for air travel, but they can also be used for car travel as well. These carriers are typically made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel and have features like ventilation, secure latching mechanisms, and comfortable interiors for your furry friend. However, it's important to make sure that the carrier is the right size for your dog and that it is properly secured in your vehicle. Additionally, some carriers may have additional features that are specific to air travel, like the ability to fit under an airline seat or connect to a plane's seatbelt. If you plan on using an airline approved dog carrier for car travel, make sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure that it is suitable for your specific needs.

How do I clean an airline approved dog carrier after a flight?

After a flight, it is essential to clean your airline approved dog carrier to ensure your furry friend's safety and hygiene. Here are some steps to follow while cleaning the carrier:

1. Remove any loose debris or fur from the carrier with a brush or vacuum cleaner.

2. Use a pet-safe disinfectant spray or wipes to clean the carrier's interior and exterior thoroughly. Make sure to read the instructions on the product before using it.

3. If the carrier has a removable mat or bedding, wash it in hot water using a pet-safe detergent. You can also add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle for additional disinfecting.

4. After washing, let the mat or bedding dry completely before putting it back in the carrier.

5. Allow the carrier to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Make sure it's completely dry before storing it.

It's important to note that some airlines may have specific guidelines for cleaning pet carriers after travel. So, it's always good to check with the airline's pet policy before planning your trip.

What are the top-rated airline approved dog carriers?

When it comes to traveling with your furry companion, choosing the right carrier is essential. It's important to select a carrier that is not only comfortable and safe for your dog, but also meets the guidelines of the airline you're traveling with. Here are some of the top-rated airline approved dog carriers:

1. Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – This carrier is available in multiple sizes and is approved by most major airlines. It's made of durable, quilted nylon and has mesh windows for ventilation and visibility.

2. Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier – The Sleepypod Air is designed to fit under most airline seats and has a unique design that expands to give your dog more space. It's made of luggage-grade nylon and comes with a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying.

3. Petmate Sky Kennel – This heavy-duty carrier is made of durable plastic and has ventilation on all sides. It's approved by most airlines and comes in multiple sizes to fit your dog.

Ultimately, it's important to do your research and check with your airline for specific guidelines before choosing a carrier for your dog.

What are the weight limitations for airline approved dog carriers?

The weight limitations for airline approved dog carriers may vary depending on the airline and the type of aircraft being used. However, in general, most airlines have a weight limit of 20 pounds for dogs traveling in the cabin with their owners. For larger dogs, they must be transported as cargo in an airline-approved crate. The weight limit for cargo transportation may also vary depending on the airline, but it typically ranges from 50 to 100 pounds. It's important to check with the specific airline you plan to travel with to ensure you are following their guidelines for pet travel. Additionally, it's essential to choose a carrier that is approved by the airline and appropriate for your pet's size and weight. It's always better to err on the side of caution and choose a carrier that is slightly larger than needed to ensure your pet is comfortable during the flight.

What is the price range for high-quality airline approved dog carriers?

The price range for high-quality airline approved dog carriers can vary depending on the brand, size, and features. Generally, a good quality airline approved dog carrier can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 or more. The cheaper options may not have as many features, such as ventilation, padding, or storage, as the more expensive carriers. It's important to ensure that the carrier you choose meets all airline regulations, including size and weight restrictions, as well as ventilation and safety requirements. It's also important to consider the size of your dog and how comfortable they will be during travel. Investing in a high-quality carrier can provide peace of mind and ensure your furry friend travels safely and comfortably.

What size airline approved dog carrier do I need for my pet?

The size of the airline approved dog carrier you need for your pet depends on the size and weight of your dog. Most airlines have specific guidelines for pet carriers, so it's important to check with your airline before purchasing a carrier. Generally, the carrier should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier should also be well-ventilated and secure, with sturdy locks and fastenings. The maximum dimensions allowed for pet carriers vary between airlines, but the typical size for a small dog carrier is 17-18 inches long, 12-14 inches wide, and 7-8 inches high. For larger dogs, the carrier may need to be up to 40 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 30 inches high. It's important to choose a carrier that meets your airline's specifications and fits your dog comfortably to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.

Which airline approved dog carriers provide the most comfort for pets during flights?

When it comes to finding the most comfortable airline approved dog carrier for your furry friend, there are a few options to consider. One of the top choices is the Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier, which is designed with soft-sided material for optimal comfort and ventilation. Another good option is the Petmate Sky Kennel, which is made with a durable plastic shell and has plenty of space for your pet to move around during the flight. The Sleepypod Air is also a popular choice, as it is specifically designed to fit under the seat of most airlines and has a plush bedding material to keep your pet cozy. Whichever carrier you choose, it is important to ensure that it meets the airline's specific requirements and that your pet has enough space to move around and stretch during the flight.