Many pet owners treat them like children and see them as a very important part of the family. That being said, many pet owners who plan to take their pooch along on a flight do not feel comfortable with the pet being treated and stored as cargo. Though flying with pets on airplanes has become more common in recent years, airlines vary in degrees of strict regulations and vary widely on prices. Some airlines are more pet-friendly than others. Some only allow passengers flying with pets in the cabin while others may only allow them to be checked-in as cargo.

If you are flying with pets in the cabin, their kennel must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you and the animal must be able to stand and turn around inside the kennel. Usually, this is possible for pets up to 20 lbs. Most airlines allow passengers flying with pets in the cabin but have a maximum number allowed per flight. If you are flying with pets, make sure to reserve your space (and your pet’s) on the flight as early as possible.

Pet Airways

The recently launched Pet Airways is a pets-only airline. It charges an introductory fare of $150. Regular one-way trips cost $250.

AirTran

Only allows pets to fly in the cabin. At $69, it charges the least of the airlines that allow pets to fly in-cabin.

Spirit

Only allows pets to fly in the cabin.

JetBlue

Only allows pets to fly in the cabin. This is the only airline that allows pets to ride in the cabin on international flights. Also, you earn extra frequent flier points when you fly with your pet.

US Airways

Usually only allows pets to travel in the cabin but they do allow pets to be checked in as baggage for nonstop shuttle flights between New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.

American Airlines

Only allows cats and dogs and they must be kept in their carrier at all times. Pets checked in as cargo costs $150.

Delta

Allows pets in the cabin for $150. For pets checked in as cargo, it is one of the most expensive airlines (along with Northwest) at $275.

Northwest

Allows pets in the cabin for $150. For pets checked in as cargo, it is one of the most expensive airlines (along with Delta) at $275.

Alaska Airlines

One of the least expensive airlines to check in pets as cargo at $100.

Midwest

One of the least expensive airlines to check in pets as cargo at $100.

Frontier

Only allows pets to board as checked baggage. Charges between $100 to $200 to check in pets as cargo.

 Southwest

Does not allow pets at all (except for service animals).