Air Travel Rights

Service dogs are covered on flights

Under DOT air-travel rules, airlines must recognize dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.

• Airlines must allow a covered service dog in the cabin on flights to, within, and from the United States.
• Airlines may require DOT service animal forms and may ask the two travel-specific questions.
• The dog must fit in the handler's foot space or under the seat in front of the handler when required by the airline.

What airlines can ask or require

• A U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form for health, behavior, and training.
• A U.S. DOT Relief Attestation Form for flights of 8 hours or more.
• Advance submission if the reservation was made before the 48-hour deadline.
• Harness, leash, or tether control in the airport and on the aircraft when required by the airline.

Airlines can refuse transport if the dog

• Is too large or heavy to fit safely in the cabin space
• Poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others
• Causes a significant disruption in the cabin or gate area
• Fails required health or destination-entry rules

SDIT travel is different

DOT's air-travel rules do not treat service dogs in training as service animals for flights.

If you are traveling with an SDIT, check the airline's current animal policy before you book. The carrier may treat the dog as a pet or may have its own handling rules, and destination rules can also matter.

Practical reminders

• Call the airline before you travel if you need a specific seating or relief-area plan.
• Keep a copy of the DOT forms and reservation confirmation with you.
• Check destination-country rules for international travel, because foreign entry rules can override the U.S. baseline.
• Ask for a Complaints Resolution Official if you believe your rights under air-travel disability rules are being denied.