When you think to fly with a service dog, often you may wonder how strict airlines are with their policies. United Airlines upholds specific rules for traveling with service animals. These guidelines by HolidayGlobes aim to keep flights comfortable for everyone while offering essential support for passengers with disabilities. Read on this blog to learn more.
What Is United Airlines' Policy on ESAs and Service Animals?
United Airlines distinguishes between service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) in its travel policies.
Service Animals:
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Passengers may travel with up to two service dogs at no charge.
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Service dogs must be at least four months old.
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Only dogs and cats are permitted; pit bulls are excluded.?
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Animals must exhibit appropriate behavior; disruptive behavior is not acceptable.
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Passengers should submit the U.S. Department of Transportation's Service Animal Air Transportation form in advance.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs):
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United Airlines no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals.
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ESAs are now categorized as pets and subject to standard pet policies and fees.
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Traveling with ESAs requires adherence to the airline's pet guidelines, including applicable fees.
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When need more clarification on United Airlines service animal policies, contact the airline directly at 1-800-864-8331 or 1-888-595-2181.
How to Fly United Airlines with a Service Dog?
If you want to know how strict is United with service dog, follow these:
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United Airlines permits passengers to travel with up to two service dogs free of charge.
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Fill out the U.S. Department of Transportation's Service Animal Air Transportation form.
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Provide the completed form to United Airlines before your flight; submission should be made at least 48 hours prior to departure.
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Ensure your dog is well-trained, behaves appropriately, and remains under control during the flight.
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Be aware that certain breeds, such as pit bulls, are not recognized as service dogs by United Airlines.
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Confirm that your service dog meets all health and safety requirements set by United Airlines.
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Allocate extra time for check-in procedures and to address any potential issues.
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Bring all required forms and identification to the airport and keep them accessible.
Call them at 1-800-864-8331 or 1-888-595-2181 to add your service dogs on United Airlines.
Is United strict with service dogs?
United Airlines maintains specific guidelines for traveling with service dogs. This aspires to balance assistance for passengers with disabilities and comfort for all travelers. While the airline permits passengers to fly with up to two service dogs at no charge, it requires that these animals meet certain behavioral and size standards. Service dogs must remain in the floor space in front of their handler's seat, avoiding aisles and neighboring flyers’ areas.
Thus, there have been instances where passengers felt inconvenienced by the presence of service dogs. This is typically when animals occupied seat areas or exceeded size expectations. Such situations have sparked discussions about the need for more stringent enforcement of service animal policies. For instance, a flyer recounted being displaced from their seat by an oversized service dog. This underlines potential challenges in United airline service dog policy implementation.
United Airlines works to balance support for passengers with disabilities and the comfort of all travelers. Its service dog policy offers flexibility but demands adherence to certain rules. Passengers should stay informed about the requirements to avoid any disruptions. Reach out to HolidayGlobes or United at 1-800-864-8331 or 1-888-595-2181 to learn more about taking your service dogs on flights.
