The Allegiant Airlines Pet Policy 2026

Traveling with a pet requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Allegiant Airlines offers a pet-friendly cabin experience for small dogs and cats, but navigating the specific rules can be challenging for first-time flyers. Understanding the airline’s regulations prevents last-minute surprises at the ticket counter.

What animals and destinations are permitted on Allegiant Airlines?

Allegiant Airlines permits only domestic dogs and cats to fly in the passenger cabin. Pets can travel on domestic flights within the contiguous 48 United States, San Juan, and Puerto Rico. Allegiant Airlines does not allow pets on any international flights or flights to Hawaii and Alaska.

All pets flying on Allegiant Airlines must be at least eight weeks old. This age requirement protects young animals whose immune systems and physical development are not yet ready for the stress of air travel.

Before booking your flight, you must verify that your specific route allows pets. Because Allegiant Airlines does not facilitate the complex documentation required for international border authorities, pets are strictly limited to specific domestic routes.

Allegiant Airlines Pet Eligibility

What are the in-cabin pet travel rules and carrier requirements?

Allegiant Airlines requires all in-cabin pets to travel in a soft-sided or hard-sided enclosed, leak-proof carrier. Soft-sided carriers may measure up to 18″L x 12″W x 11″H, while hard-sided carriers are limited to 17″L x 11″W x 10.5″H. The pet must remain inside the carrier at all times.

Choose a soft-sided carrier if you want more flexibility fitting the bag under the airplane seat. The carrier must have adequate ventilation on at least three sides. Your dog or cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the top or sides of the enclosure.

Allegiant Airlines allows a maximum of two pets per carrier, provided they are the same species and fit comfortably together. Each paying passenger (aged 15 or older) is limited to one pet carrier. The carrier counts as one of your two allowed cabin items. You may bring the pet carrier plus one personal item (like a purse) OR the pet carrier plus a paid carry-on bag, but you cannot bring all three.

How much does Allegiant charge for pets to fly?

Allegiant Airlines charges a non-refundable pet fee of $50.00 per segment, per carrier. A standard round-trip flight with one connection each way would result in four total segments, bringing the total pet travel cost to $200.00. You must pay this fee during booking or at the airport.

When budgeting for your trip, calculate the fee based on your specific flight path. Since the $50.00 fee applies per segment (each takeoff and landing), direct flights are the most cost-effective option for pet owners.

Allegiant Airlines Pet Fee Calculation Examples

Where can you sit when flying with a pet on Allegiant?

Passengers traveling with pets on Allegiant Airlines must place the pet carrier completely under the seat directly in front of them. For safety reasons, passengers with pets cannot sit in exit rows or bulkhead seats. On Boeing aircraft, pet carriers are strictly prohibited in aisle seats.

If you accidentally select a prohibited seat during booking, an Allegiant Airlines gate agent or flight attendant will relocate you to an appropriate window or middle seat. To avoid seating issues, reserve a window seat near the middle or rear of the aircraft, which often provides the most uninterrupted space for the carrier.

What is the check-in process for traveling with a pet?

Passengers flying with a pet must check in with an Allegiant Airlines agent at the ticket or gate counter at least one hour before the scheduled departure time. You cannot complete the pet check-in process entirely online or via the mobile app.

During this mandatory in-person check-in, the agent will inspect your pet carrier to ensure it meets the dimensional guidelines. They will also verify that your pet fits comfortably inside and displays harmless, non-disruptive behavior. Arrive at the airport at least two hours early to allow sufficient time for this inspection and standard security screening.

What is the Allegiant pet policy weight limit?

The Allegiant Airlines pet policy enforces a strict weight limit for in-cabin pet travel. The combined weight of your pet and the travel carrier must not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg). If your pet weighs more than this limit, Allegiant Airlines will deny boarding.

To ensure compliance, weigh your pet while inside the carrier before leaving for the airport. If you have a dog that weighs 17 pounds, and your carrier weighs 4 pounds, your total weight is 21 pounds. In this scenario, you exceed the Allegiant pet policy weight limit and must find alternative travel arrangements.

Does the Allegiant pet policy allow animals in cargo?

No, the Allegiant Airlines pet policy does not allow any animals to fly in the cargo hold as checked baggage or manifest cargo. Allegiant Airlines exclusively transports small pets in the passenger cabin. If your pet is too large for the cabin, you cannot fly with Allegiant.

Because Allegiant Airlines operates as a low-cost carrier with quick turnaround times, they do not staff the specialized personnel or utilize the climate-controlled cargo compartments necessary for safe live animal transport. Choose a different airline if you need to transport a large breed dog.

What is the Allegiant Air pet policy for emotional support animals?

Allegiant Airlines treats emotional support animals (ESAs) as standard pets. ESAs must adhere to all standard pet rules, including carrier size limits, the 20-pound weight limit, and the $50.00 per segment fee. ESAs are no longer legally recognized as service animals for air travel.

Conversely, Allegiant Airlines allows fully trained service dogs to fly in the cabin free of charge. Service dogs are exempt from the carrier requirement if they are too large, but they must fit within the passenger’s foot space without blocking the aisle. You must submit the Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Transportation Form at least 48 hours before your flight to travel with a service dog.

Standard Pets vs. Service Dogs on Allegiant

How can you ensure a stress-free journey with your pet?

You can ensure a stress-free journey on Allegiant Airlines by acclimating your pet to their travel carrier weeks before the flight. Pack essential items in your personal bag, including a collapsible water bowl, dry food, and a familiar blanket. Map out airport pet relief areas in advance.

Airport environments are loud and chaotic. Keep your pet securely zipped in their carrier to prevent escapes. Ask the flight attendants for a cup of ice during the flight; letting your pet lick the ice is a great way to keep them hydrated without causing spills in the carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much does Allegiant charge for pets to fly?

Allegiant Airlines charges a non-refundable fee of $50.00 per segment, per pet carrier. If you have a direct, round-trip flight, the total cost will be $100.00.

How strict is Allegiant with pets?

Allegiant Airlines is very strict regarding pet travel rules. Gate agents will measure the carrier, verify the pet can stand and turn around comfortably, and ensure the combined weight is under 20 pounds. Failure to comply results in denied boarding.

Do I need documents to bring a pet on a plane?

Allegiant Airlines does not require a specific health certificate for standard pets traveling in the cabin. However, some destination states require proof of rabies vaccination, so carrying a recent vet record is highly recommended. Service dogs require the official DOT transportation form.

How do I add a pet to Allegiant Air?

You can add a pet to your Allegiant Airlines reservation during the online booking process by selecting the “Travel with a Pet” option. If you have already booked your flight, you can add your pet by managing your reservation on the Allegiant website or by calling their customer service center.

Can I purchase a seat for my dog on Allegiant?

No, you cannot purchase an extra passenger seat for your dog on Allegiant Airlines. All pet carriers must remain completely stowed under the seat directly in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Do I need to prove my dog is a service dog to fly?

Yes, you must prove your dog is a service dog by submitting the completed U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Transportation Form at least 48 hours before departure. The dog must also display behavior indicative of a trained service animal at the airport.

Can I buy my 50 lb dog a seat on a plane?

No, Allegiant Airlines strictly prohibits purchasing a seat for any animal. Furthermore, a 50 lb dog exceeds the airline’s strict 20 lb in-cabin weight limit and cannot fly on Allegiant Airlines under any circumstances unless it is a trained service dog.

Can a dog be left alone for 5 days?

No, a dog should never be left alone for five days. If you are traveling on Allegiant Airlines and cannot bring your dog because it exceeds the weight limit, you must hire a pet sitter or book a reputable boarding kennel for the duration of your trip.