United Airlines Pet Policy

The ACAA (Air Carrier Access Act) gives people the right to have their emotional support animal (ESA) travel with them in the cabin of commercial passenger airplanes. But there are some guidelines, such as the need for a properly executed ESA letter. There are also some limitations, for example: airlines are never required to accept reptiles, snakes, rodents and spiders. 

Most airlines have specific ESA policies that you should review prior to buying a ticket with the plan that your ESA will be traveling in the cabin with you.

United Airlines Emotional Support Animal Policies

When traveling with an ESA on United Airlines, you will be expected to comply with their policies, including:

• United Airlines only accepts dogs and cats as ESAs.
• ESAs must be a minimum of 4 months old.
• ESAs cannot weigh more than 65 pounds.
• ESAs must be kept on a leash or in an approved in-cabin kennel.
• ESAs are not permitted on flights 8 hours or more in duration.
• A minimum of 48 hours prior to departure, required documentation must be submitted, including health advisory form, medical/mental health professional form, animal behavior form, and veterinary health form (with vaccination records).
• An ESA must sit at the passenger’s seat without protruding into areas — including aisles — that must be kept clear for safety regulations.
• ESAs are not permitted in exit row seating.

The United Airlines ESA policies are subject to change. Although you can find updated details on their website — where required forms can be downloaded — consider contacting United directly to make sure you have the most updated information.