Flying with an emotional support animal (ESA) used to be relatively straightforward for U.S. travelers. For years, ESAs had legal protections under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), allowing them to travel in the cabin free of charge.
However, rule changes that began in 2021 have reshaped those rights, and as of 2025, many ESA owners are still unsure where things stand.
Whether you’re preparing for your first trip or navigating new airline rules, this guide breaks down what’s changed and what ESA owners can expect this year, from airline policies to legal workarounds.
A Quick History of ESA Travel Rules
Until 2020, the ACAA required airlines to accept emotional support animals in aircraft cabins, recognizing their role in mental health support. ESA owners could board with their animals free of charge, bypassing pet fees and crate requirements, provided they submitted appropriate documentation, such as an ESA letter.
In December 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a final rule change. This Final Service Animal Rule narrowed the definition of “service animal” to only include task-trained dogs, thereby removing ESAs from federal air travel protection.
As of early 2021, airlines were no longer obligated to treat ESAs differently from pets, and many quickly updated their policies to reflect that.
By 2022, most U.S.-based airlines had phased out ESA recognition, and in 2025, that trend continues.
What’s New or Different in 2025
While the regulatory changes happened a few years ago, ESA travel norms have continued to evolve:
- Most U.S. airlines now classify ESAs as pets, not service animals.
- Each airline sets its own policy, meaning fees, crate size, and breed restrictions can vary.
- Some international airlines may still honor ESA letters, but it’s not guaranteed.
- Emotional support animal letters no longer offer travel exemptions in the U.S., although they still help with housing rights.
If you’re traveling with an ESA in 2025, don’t assume you’ll get special treatment just because of the ESA label. You’ll need to navigate each airline’s pet policy, and that often means preparing for fees, size limits, and carrier rules.
What to Expect When Flying with an ESA in 2025
Here’s what ESA owners can expect this year when booking flights:
Expect to Pay a Pet Fee
Even if your ESA helps with a mental health condition, you’ll likely be required to pay a pet fee ranging from $95 to $200+ per flight segment, depending on the airline.
Expect to Use an In-Cabin Carrier
Most airlines require animals to remain in a hard- or soft-sided crate that fits beneath the seat in front of you. That means your ESA must be small enough to meet airline dimensions, or it will need to fly in cargo, which is a different experience entirely.
Expect to Provide Advance Notice
Each airline has limited pet slots per flight, so you should reserve early. You may also be asked to provide vet documentation, a health certificate, or proof of vaccination in advance.
Expect Different Rules from Airline to Airline
What airlines allow ESA dogs varies. Among them, Delta, American, United, Alaska, and Southwest all have their own requirements. While one may allow a small dog under 20 lbs, another might only permit two pets per cabin. Always check the current policy before booking.
Can ESA Letters Still Help?
Under current U.S. airline rules, ESA letters no longer qualify your animal for special accommodations in flight.
However, ESA letters are still valuable in several ways:
- Housing: Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must accommodate emotional support animals with valid letters, even in no-pet buildings.
- International Travel: Some foreign carriers — particularly in the EU or South America — may accept ESA documentation for in-cabin travel. Always call ahead and verify.
Pettable offers access to legitimate ESA letters from licensed providers, helping ensure you’re protected in situations where those letters still matter.
Tips for Traveling with Your ESA (Now Considered a Pet)
Flying with a pet can be stressful, especially when you’re used to ESA exemptions.
Here are some tips to make the journey easier:
- Book Early: Airlines cap the number of pets per flight. Secure your spot as soon as possible.
- Prepare Your Pet: Acclimate your animal to their carrier well before the flight. Use treats and short practice trips to reduce anxiety.
- Visit the Vet: Schedule a checkup and request a certificate of health and any necessary vaccinations.
- Pack Comfort Items: A familiar blanket, toy, or even a T-shirt with your scent can help soothe your animal.
- Bring Paperwork: While an ESA letter won’t grant travel exemptions, health records, vaccination proof, and airline forms may be required at check-in.
Alternatives If You Can’t Fly With Your ESA
If air travel proves too complicated or costly, you have options:
- Trusted Pet Sitters or Boarding Facilities: Look for one with ESA or anxiety pet experience.
- Road Trips or Rail: Train travel (e.g., Amtrak) or car trips may offer more flexibility for ESA companions.
- Emotional Support Tools: For high-anxiety travelers, grounding exercises, wearable anxiety aids, or telehealth sessions may help bridge the emotional gap when separated from your ESA.
Final Thoughts: Know the Rules, Plan Ahead
Flying with an ESA in 2025 isn’t as easy as it once was, but it’s still manageable with research and preparation.
Remember:
- ESA status no longer guarantees cabin access.
- Airlines treat ESAs as pets, so expect pet fees and crate rules.
- Check each airline’s policy before you book.
- Use your ESA letter for housing, international travel, and to verify legitimate mental health support when needed.
With realistic expectations and proper planning, you can continue to benefit from the calming presence of your ESA, even at 30,000 feet.
FAQs
Q: Can I still fly with my ESA for free in 2025?
A: No. Most U.S. airlines treat ESAs as pets, and standard fees apply.
Q: Is my ESA considered a service animal?
A: No. Only dogs trained to perform disability-related tasks qualify as service animals under DOT rules.
Q: Can I bring a letter from my doctor to avoid pet fees?
A: Not anymore. ESA letters no longer waive pet fees for U.S. flights.
Q: Are there any airlines that accept ESAs in the cabin without fees?
A: Possibly — a few international carriers may still allow it. Call the airline in advance to confirm.
Q: What’s the best way to prepare my ESA for flying?
A: Crate training, health checkups, and packing comfort items are key. Choose non-stop flights when possible to reduce stress.
