Delta Emotional Support Animal Policy

The right to have your emotional support animal (ESA) fly with you is guaranteed by the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). There are some guidelines, however, such as the need to present an official ESA letter. 

The majority of airlines have adopted specific ESA policies. If traveling with the expectation of ESA being in the cabin with you, these policies should be reviewed before ticket purchase. 

Delta Airlines Emotional Support Animal Policy

When traveling with an ESA on Delta, understand and be prepared to comply with their ESA policies, including:

  • Delta Airlines does not permit certain animals on their planes, including:
    • Pit bull type dogs
    • Small mammals, such as ferrets, rabbits, and hedgehogs
    • Rodents, such as mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats
    • Spiders and insects
    • Amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders
    • Reptiles, such as lizards, snakes, and turtles
    • Non-household birds, such as game birds, birds of prey or waterfowl
    • Animals with horns, hooves, or tusks, such as pigs and goats
    • Animals that are not clean or that have an unpleasant odor
  • Your ESA is not allowed on flights longer than 8 hours.
  • At least 48 hours before your flight, you must submit documentation, including: acknowledgement form, veterinary health form proving current vaccination, medical/mental health professional form, confirmation of animal training form.
  • All documentation must be kept on your person during the entire trip.
  • Each passenger can have only 1 ESA per flight
  • Your ESA must fit on your lap or in the floor space below your seat.
  • Your ESA cannot be larger than the footprint of your seat.
  • Your ESA cannot extend into the aisle.
  • Your ESA cannot encroach on other passengers.
  • Your ESA can be denied cabin access if it behaves in an aggressive or disruptive manor, such as biting, growling, barking excessively and/or eating off seatback tray tables.

The Delta Airlines ESA policies may be occasionally adjusted, so check their website — where you can also download required forms — before finalizing your travel plans. Also, consider contacting them directly to make sure you are aware of policies that have been changed or updated from those outlined here.