JetBlue’s Latest Policy for Flying with Pets

This article was last updated on October 16th, 2024.

JetBlue happily allows small dogs and cats in the cabin, but pets are not permitted in Mint, and they cannot travel in the cargo hold. JetBlue lets service dogs fly free of charge, but not emotional support animals. This guide will help you prepare for your trip and explain JetBlue’s requirements to make sure your furry companion and pet carrier meet all of JetBlue’s requirements.

What to Do Before Your JetBlue Flight

Here are the steps you need to follow if you want to fly with your pet on JetBlue:

Book your flight with JetBlue and confirm there’s space for your pet.
When booking online with JetBlue, the JetBlue App, or by phone, note that you are flying with a pet. Only six pets are allowed per flight, so reserve your pet’s spot early.
Pay JetBlue’s Pet Fee.
JetBlue charges a $125 fee each way for pets traveling in the cabin.
Make sure your pet fits JetBlue’s size and weight requirements.
JetBlue only allows small cats and dogs that weigh no more than 20 pounds combined with the carrier. A maximum of two pets per traveler is allowed, but each must be in their own carrier, and a second seat must be purchased for the additional pet.

Here are some things to keep in mind when booking your flight:

Seat restrictions:
Pets are not permitted in JetBlue’s Mint service, and you cannot sit in an emergency exit row, bulkhead, or any seat without under-seat stowage space. It is recommended to select an aisle or window seat if you have a pet.
Pet Carrier Requirements:
Your carrier counts as your personal item. The carrier must not exceed 17” x 12.5” x 8.5” and must fit under the seat in front of you. It must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and your pet must remain inside it at all times.
Documents for International Travel:
If traveling internationally with a dog older than 12 weeks, you must present a valid rabies vaccination certificate with identifying characteristics (breed, sex, age), vaccination and expiration dates, and a licensed vet’s signature.
Extra space options:
If you want a bit of extra space on JetBlue, purchase their Even More Space seat for an additional 7” more legroom, early boarding, and early access to overhead bins. You are also allowed to book an extra seat for your pet, but they still must be placed in their carrier in the floor space of the extra seat.

What to Do on Travel Day

Arrive early at the airport — at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours for international flights. Bring all necessary documentation, especially if you’re traveling internationally. You will need to check in with your pet, pay the fee if not already done, and receive a JetPaws tag for your pet’s carrier at the full-service counter.

If you’re traveling through JFK’s Terminal 5, take advantage of JetBlue’s WoofTop Lounge, an outdoor pet relief area. This space is equipped with artificial grass, benches, and cleaning supplies, giving your dog a comfortable place to stretch and relieve themselves before the flight.

At the TSA checkpoint, remove your pet from the carrier and either carry or walk them while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Pets are allowed in the TSA Pre✓® line with approved travelers.

If you have a pet stroller, it can be gate-checked for free as an assistive device and collected at the arrival gate or the baggage carousel at your destination.

JetBlue Airways Pet Policy — When traveling with your dog on JetBlue, familiarize yourself with the Pet Policy and plan enough time at the airport.

What to Do During Your Flight

Once on board, your pet must remain in the carrier, which must fit completely under the seat in front of you. JetBlue does not allow pets to sit on your lap or be removed from the carrier during the flight, except for brief periods when holding the carrier on your lap during non-critical phases of the flight. If you purchased an additional seat for your pet, the carrier can be placed on that seat or your lap.

Keep in mind that only one pet is allowed per customer unless an additional seat has been purchased for a second pet. If your pet is disruptive during the flight, the crew may ask you to address the situation.

FAQ

1. Can I bring more than one pet on a JetBlue flight?
Yes, a maximum of two pets per traveler is allowed, but each must be in their own carrier. To bring a second pet, you must purchase an additional seat and pay an additional pet fee.

2. Are pets allowed on international JetBlue flights?
Yes, but only to select international destinations. You must provide proper documentation, including vaccination records and any destination-specific requirements. For dogs over 12 weeks old, a valid rabies certificate is required.

3. What if my pet exceeds the 20-pound weight limit?
Pets that exceed the 20-pound weight limit, including the carrier, are not allowed to fly in the cabin. JetBlue does not offer a cargo option, so you would need to make alternate arrangements. Only service dogs are exempt from the weight limit.

4. Can my pet sit in my lap during the flight?
No, pets must remain in their carriers, which should fit under the seat in front of you. During taxi, takeoff, and landing, pets must stay under the seat, but you may hold the carrier on your lap during other times. If you’ve purchased a second seat, you can place the carrier on that seat.

5. What are the seat restrictions for pets on JetBlue?
Pets are not allowed in Mint service or Even More Space seats located in bulkhead rows. Additionally, you cannot sit in an emergency exit row with your pet.

6. How much is the pet fee on JetBlue?
JetBlue charges $125 each way for pets traveling in the cabin.