Are you traveling with your pawed pals on Spirit Airlines? Knowing the rules is crucial for a smooth trip with your furry friend. So, here is information on Spirit Airlines pet policy for your convenience. This guide will walk you through the booking process, pet fees, carrier requirements, and destination-specific restrictions to help you travel stress-free.
The airline is known for its ultra-low fares and no-frills approach, but when it comes to pets, the airline offers a surprisingly accommodating policy. If you're planning to fly with a dog, cat, rabbit, or small bird, Spirit makes it possible as long as you follow their guidelines.
Does Spirit Airlines Allow Pets Onboard?
Yes, the airline welcomes small pets onboard so you don’t have to leave your best friend behind. They allow domesticated cats, dogs, and other small animals to travel in the guest cabin on all domestic flights including routes to Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
To make things smoother for everyone, Spirit follows updated Department of Transportation rules. Since January 11, 2021, emotional support animals are no longer classified as service animals and must travel as regular pets. That means your pet will need to meet all the standard requirements for cabin travel, including carrier size, weight limits, and behavior guidelines. Spirit wants your journey to be safe, comfortable, and pet-friendly from takeoff to landing.
What is Spirit Airlines Pet Policy?
If you are planning to take your furry friend along on a Spirit flight, it is important to know its guidelines. Here are the Spirit pet policy highlights for your reference -
- Each passenger is allowed to carry only one pet container onboard.
- Your pet should be able to stand up and move around easily inside the carrier.
- Pets must be at least eight weeks old, fully weaned, and in good health.
- Only quiet, odor-free, and well-behaved pets are permitted during the flight.
- If your pet shows signs of illness or distress, Spirit reserves the right to deny boarding.
- The airline allows only service animals on international flights. Pets are not allowed to travel internationally.
- You won’t get seats in first rows or emergency exit when flying with pets.
- If your pets are flying to USVI, you must show a health certificate.
- While traveling to Puerto Rico, your pet must have a rabies vaccination certificate.
Please note
- Emotional support animals (ESAN) have to travel as pets according to the updated Department of Transportation requirements.
- Spirit does not offer a cargo option for pets, so all animals must travel in the cabin.
Flying with pets on Spirit Airlines is a straightforward process if you follow the rules. Make sure your pet meets all age, weight, and behavior requirements before heading to the airport.
Which Pets are Allowed on Spirit Airlines?
If you are taking your pets along, know which ones the airline allows on board. Here are the pets permitted on Spirit Airlines to help you avoid any last-minute hassle -
- Only domestic dogs, cats, and domestic rabbits, household birds are allowed on domestic flights. Such flights include those to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- The airline also allows small domestic rabbits and small household birds on its aircraft cabins except to/from Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I.
- Exotic pets that include snakes, rodents, and spiders are prohibited.
Prohibited Pets
- Exotic pets such as snakes, rodents, spiders, and other non-domesticated animals
- Birds of prey, game birds, farm poultry, flightless birds, and waterfowl
The guidelines to fly with pets on this carrier is designed to prioritize safety and comfort for both pets and passengers.
How Can I Book a Spot for My Pet on a Spirit Flight?
To know how to book a pet on Spirit Airlines, keep in mind that the process can’t be done online. You must chat with the airline’s customer service team for the booking. Follow the instructions as provided.
- Contact Spirit Airlines via chat, phone, or text to add your pet to your reservation (online booking may not be available).
- Book in advance as there’s a limit of six pet carriers per flight.
- Pay the pet fee to complete the booking.
Booking Tips for Smooth Travel
To make your journey easier, follow these tips:
- Choose off-peak flights: Midweek and early morning flights are less crowded.
- Bring documentation: Especially for flights to Puerto Rico or the USVI.
- Use a soft-sided carrier: It’s easier to fit under the seat and more comfortable for your pet.
Please note
- When traveling with pets, you will need to check in at the ticket counter.
- At this time, curbside or self-service check-in is not allowed.
- Arrive earlier than usual for check-in. Allow extra time for this process, especially if flying from busy hubs like New York or Orlando.
What is Spirit Airlines Pet Fee?
You have to pay Spirit Airlines’ pet fee of $125 per container for each one-way trip. This fee covers up to two pets in a single carrier, provided they are of the same species and can comfortably fit. If you're flying round-trip, expect to pay $250 total. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the airport during check-in.
Please contact the airline for updated fees.
What are Spirit Airlines’ Pet Carrier Requirements?
Here are the pet carrier requirements that the airline has set.
- The pet carrier size must not exceed 18"x14"x 9" (45.72 cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86 cm).
- The total weight of the pet and carrier combined must stay under 40 pounds.
- The pet container must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Your pet must stay in the container at all times during the flight.
- You can take only soft containers in the cabin.
- Each guest can take only one container with a maximum of 2 pets in it.
- The container must comply with all government requirements for safe transportation.
Emotional Support and Service Animals
As of January 2021, emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals under DOT guidelines. The airline now requires these animals to travel as pets and follow all standard pet policies.
The airline’s pet policy demands emotional support animals to meet the same age, health, and carrier requirements as any other pet. If your animal is a trained service dog, you’ll need to submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before your flight.
Spirit Airlines pet travel guide is essential for anyone flying with a pet. It helps you avoid surprises and ensures a smooth experience from check-in to landing.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever asked what Spirit Airlines pet policy is, now you have the full picture. Spirit offers a clear, affordable, and pet-friendly approach to air travel. While there are restrictions and fees, the process is straightforward and accessible for most pet owners.
Whether you're flying domestically or heading to Puerto Rico, understanding the rules will help you avoid stress and ensure your pet’s safety. From booking to boarding, Spirit makes it possible to bring your furry friend along for the ride.
For assistance, you can also call Wizfair Travels where customer service executives are available 24/7. So next time you plan a trip, don’t leave your pet behind. With the right preparation, your companion can fly comfortably by your side.
FAQs
1. What is Spirit Airlines pet policy?
Spirit allows small dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits in the cabin on domestic flights. Pets must meet age, health, and carrier requirements.
2. Can I bring my dog on Spirit Airlines?
Yes, as long as your dog is small, healthy, and fits in a soft-sided carrier under the seat. Only one pet container is allowed per passenger.
3. How much does Spirit Airlines charge for pets?
The fee is $125 per container, per one-way flight. This covers up to two pets of the same species in one carrier.
4. What pets are allowed on Spirit Airlines?
Spirit permits small domestic dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits. Exotic pets and large animals are not allowed.
5. What size pet carrier is allowed on Spirit Airlines?
The carrier must be soft-sided and no larger than 18" x 14" x 9". The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 40 pounds.
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