Flying with Pets: Know Spirit Airlines Pet Policy

Planning to travel with your pet on Spirit Airlines? Small dogs, cats, rabbits, and domestic birds are allowed in the cabin on domestic flights for a one-way fee. Pets must be kept in a soft-sided carrier under the seat, and international pet travel is not permitted.

Knowing the rules is crucial to traveling comfortably with your furry friend. So, for your convenience, here's information about Spirit Airlines' pet policy. This guide will walk you through the booking process, pet fees, carrier requirements, and destination-specific restrictions so you can travel without stress.

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 (ESA) 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.

Can dogs fly on Spirit Airlines?

Yes, dogs can fly on Spirit Airlines, but they’re not the only pets allowed. The airline also permits cats, rabbits, and domestic birds in the cabin. Here’s a complete list of permitted pets to help you avoid any last-minute hassles:

• Pet dogs, cats, rabbits, and domestic birds are allowed on domestic flights.
• These flights include flights to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Small rabbits and domestic birds are allowed on most domestic flights but not on routes to and from Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Prohibited Pets

No snakes, rats, spiders, and other pets.

No birds of prey, farm poultry, flightless birds, and waterfowl.

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 U.S.V.I.
• 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.

Spirit Airlines Pet Fees

Spirit Airlines charges the following pet fees (per container):

Route Pet Fees

• One-way (Domestic): $125
• Round-trip (Domestic): $250
• International: Not allowed

Important Notes:

• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
• The fee is non-refundable.
• Pets must remain in the carrier under the seat for the entire flight.

Please contact Spirit Airlines directly to confirm the most up-to-date pet fees and policies.

What are Spirit Airlines’ Pet Carrier Requirements?

According to Spirit Airlines' official pet policy, the airline has established pet carrier requirements:

• The pet carrier must not exceed 18" x 14" x 9" (45.72 cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86 cm).
• The combined weight of the pet and carrier must be less than 40 lbs
• The pet container must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Your pet must remain in the container at all times during the flight.
• You may only carry soft containers in the cabin.
• Each guest may carry only one container for a maximum of two pets.
• Restrictions: Only allowed on domestic flights and the pet counts as one carry-on item.
• The container must meet all government requirements for safe transportation.

Following these carrier guidelines helps ensure the safety and comfort of both pets and passengers.

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.

If you need help reviewing travel options, you may also contact travel support services like 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

What is the pet policy for Spirit Airlines?

Spirit allows small dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits in the cabin on domestic flights. Pets must meet age, health, and carrier requirements.

Can dogs fly 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.

Does Spirit Airlines allow pets in the cabin?

Yes, Spirit Airlines allows small dogs, cats, small birds, and small rabbits in the cabin.

Are pets allowed on international Spirit flights?

No, pets are not permitted on all international routes. Only trained service animals are permitted on international flights, with specific documentation.

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.

Which pets are allowed on Spirit Airlines?

Spirit permits small domestic dogs, cats, household birds, and rabbits. Exotic pets and large animals are not allowed.

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.