The Airline Compliant Carriers

Bergan by Coastal

If you’re the kind of pet owner who would never leave your best friend behind, we’re with you! Avoid undue stress and minimize the risk of trip cancellation by planning ahead and making sure you and your pet are cleared for take-off!

First things first, do you have an “in-cabin” pet?

In-cabin pets are domesticated cats and dogs that can fit in a travel carrier underneath the seat in front of you.

Pets that don’t meet the “in-cabin” definition may travel in the cargo section of the plane. The cargo section of planes is pressurized just like the cabin, but in order to follow federal guidelines, U.S. airlines won't transport animals if the temperature of the cargo hold will fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit or 7.2 degrees Celsius, overheating of the cargo area is also a concern and is monitored closely. Airlines will refuse to carry an animal if conditions put the pet's health at risk.

Next question, do you have the right travel carrier for your “in-cabin” pet?

Our carriers are Airline Compliant, which means their structure complies with the standards and guidelines established by most US based airlines. Bergan by Coastal soft-sided carriers feature padded bases and generous mesh panels for maximum breathability, allowing your pet to travel comfortably.

Do you think you're ready to take to the skies with your pet?

Take a look at our Quick Check List so you know if you and your pet are prepared for airline travel.

What to Know When Purchasing A Carrier

  • Carrier size restrictions will vary depending on the aircraft being used for each route. (We recommend contacting the airline of your trip and ask about their specific measures).
  • You can only transport one pet in your carrier.
  • The Carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you and remain there throughout the flight.
  • Your pet’s Carrier must be in good condition, without holes, cracks, breaks, or tears. Airlines can reject your carrier if it’s deemed “damaged”.
  • Carriers dimensions should allow it to fit underneath a seat without blocking the aisle. Please contact your airline to verify maximum dimensions for your journey.
  • Our carriers are collapsible to allow some flexibility in fit, but should not be “smashed” down around the pet. Your dog or cat must be able to turn around comfortably inside of the carrier.

How to Choose the Correct Carrier Size for Your Pet

The carrier should be large enough for your pet to turn around easily or stretch out when lying down. Measure your pet from collar to tail for length, shoulder to shoulder for width and finally paw to tip of their ears (while laying down) for height. To allow for room to stretch and turn, take your measurements and add 2-3 inches. This gives you a general size requirement.

The maximum dimensions accepted by most of the airlines are:

19 inches long x 11 inches wide x 13 inches high (48cm x 28 cm x 33cm)

  • Even the Large Bergan® Wheeled Comfort Carrier, Bergan® Comfort Carrier™, Bergan® Backpack Pet Carrier™, and Bergan® Voyager Comfort Carrier™ still fit under the maximum seat dimensions.
  • Please contact your airline to make sure your Bergan® Cat Carrier or Bergan® Rolling Pet Carrier™ will fit in the aircraft.
  • Please note that there is no one official airline approved dog carrier, as carrier requirements vary between airlines. However, all of these carriers have been designed for air travel and should suit your needs.
  • Still, we suggest you always double check your specific airline carry-on dimensions with any carrier you consider ordering.

Before booking your next flight, we recommend contacting the airline and asking these four questions:

  1. Will your pet be allowed to travel with you in the cabin? Most airlines allow pets in the cabin, but there some restrictions involved like breed, size, number of pets per flight, etc.
  2. Will you need any special health certificates for your pet, such as immunization records or an authorized vet’s letter?
  3. Is your Bergan Carrier accepted by your airline? Most airlines will accept soft-sided carriers, but certain airlines place additional restrictions on carrier types.
  4. If you can't take your pet in the cabin, does the airline have any restrictions on transporting your pet in the cargo hold?

After answering these questions, and making sure that you are ready to go, you can book your flight.

Restrictions When Traveling with Your Pet:

Many brachycephalic, or snub-nosed, breeds are restricted from flying. In addition to breed, pets with certain health conditions are also restricted from flying. Our Restrictions Guide goes into more detail.

Most Pet Friendly Airlines in the USA

Did you know that some airlines are easier to fly with when taking a pet? It's true! Depending on where your traveling in the United States, some airlines might be better suited for you. This list of the Most Pet Friendly Airlines in the United States includes 9 airlines and what they are best at when it comes to traveling with your pet.

Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-choose-the-best-dog-carrier-for-your-canine-friend/
https://www.k9ofmine.com/airline-approved-pet-carrier/
https://millionmilesecrets.com/news/pet-friendly-airlines/
https://www.pettravel.com/airline_pet_rules/american.cfm
https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/animals/in-cabin.html
https://www.pettravelstore.com/pet-cargo-crates-how-to-measure-your-dog/