No Weight Limit
Airline dog policy
Delta Air Lines
Delta is one of the most popular US carriers for in-cabin pet travel, thanks to its extensive domestic network and no weight limit policy for cabin pets. However, the airline has suspended its general cargo pet program (formerly Delta Cargo PetFirst) and now only transports pets as cargo for active US military and State Department personnel on permanent change of station orders. For civilian dog owners, this means your dog must fit in an under-seat carrier or you will need to use a different airline or third-party pet shipping service for larger dogs.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
Delta operates a strict first-come, first-served system for in-cabin pets with a hard cap per flight: typically 2 pets in First Class and 4 in Main Cabin. You cannot book a pet online — you must call Delta Reservations directly and have your carrier dimensions ready. Spots fill up fast on popular routes, so book your pet the moment you book your ticket. Delta also requires dogs to be at least 8 weeks old for domestic flights and 16 weeks for travel to the EU.
Why it can work
Delta has no weight limit for cabin pets, which is exceptional among US carriers and makes it an excellent choice for owners of slightly larger small-dog breeds, provided they still fit comfortably inside the approved carrier dimensions. The carrier must fit entirely under the seat in front of you, so always check the specific aircraft you are flying on. Be aware that Boeing 717-200 and 737-900ER aircraft have notoriously tight under-seat clearance.
Restrictions
Pets are banned from cabin travel to/from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Hong Kong, UAE, Iceland, Ireland, Jamaica, Barbados, and Hawaii. Pets are not permitted in Delta One, international Business Class, or any cabin with flat-bed seats. Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage or cargo on any B767 or B757 (Europe routes) aircraft. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds have no specific ban but are cautioned about breathing risks.
Dog-owner notes
As of April 2025, the domestic cabin pet fee increased from $95 to $150. International routes remain $200. Delta Sky Clubs welcome pets provided they stay in their carrier at all times. Pet relief areas are available at most Delta hub airports. For international travel, ensure you have a health certificate issued within 10 days, a current rabies vaccination, and any destination-specific import documents. Delta is based out of Atlanta (ATL), so most connections route through this hub.
Final check before paying
Confirm the exact aircraft, route, dog breed, carrier size, temperature rules and destination import law directly with the airline. A country can allow dogs while a specific airline or aircraft refuses them.