Delta Air Lines Pet Travel Policy
DL • United States • SkyTeam
Complete guide to flying with your pet on Delta Air Lines. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
Delta Air Lines restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: American Bulldog, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon and others.
Not accepted in cargo. Must fly in cabin in approved carrier.
Cabin Travel
Note: One pet per passenger. Carrier counts as carry-on.
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
- • Temperature restrictions (seasonal)
- • Snub-nosed breed in cargo booking
- • Crate too small
- • Missing USDA endorsement for international
Breed Restrictions
Banned / Restricted Breeds
Delta policy effective 2018
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Not accepted in cargo. Must fly in cabin in approved carrier.
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass Delta Air Lines's inspection.
Documents Required
- Health certificate within 10 days of travel
- Rabies certificate
- Import permits for international destinations
- USDA endorsement for some countries
Official Policy
Always verify with Delta Air Lines directly before travel.
Delta Air Lines Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Temperature Embargo
No cargo pets when ground temperature is below 45°F or above 85°F.
No cargo pet travel if ground temp below 45°F or above 85°F at origin, destination, or connection cities
Flying with Your Pet on Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines (DL) is an American carrier and member of the SkyTeam alliance.The airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin under your seat, as well as offering cargo transport for larger animals.
Understanding Delta Air Lines's Pet Policy
Delta Air Lines's pet travel policy follows IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animals Regulations, with some airline-specific additions. All crates must be IATA-compliant with rigid construction, adequate ventilation, secure metal door, and proper labeling. Pets must have current health certificates and rabies vaccinations.
Brachycephalic Breed Restrictions
Like most major airlines, Delta Air Lines restricts snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from cargo transport. These breeds have compromised respiratory systems that make them vulnerable to heat stroke and breathing difficulties in the cargo hold environment. Affected breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and similar flat-faced dogs and cats. If you have a brachycephalic breed, you may only transport them in the cabin (if they meet weight requirements) or consider alternative transport methods.
How to Avoid Rejection at Check-In
The most common reasons for pet crate rejection at Delta Air Lines check-in include: incorrect crate sizing, plastic clips instead of metal bolts, insufficient ventilation, missing or expired health certificates, and attempting to fly restricted breeds in cargo. Using our AI pre-check service can identify these issues before you arrive at the airport, giving you time to make corrections.