What To Know
- A letter from a licensed healthcare professional stating your disability and the need for a service dog.
- A service dog is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.
- Can I bring a service dog in training on an American Airlines flight.
Traveling with a service dog is a privilege that enhances the lives of individuals with disabilities. However, to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, American Airlines has established specific guidelines and requirements for service animals. Understanding these requirements is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Required Documentation
Before boarding an American Airlines flight with a service dog, you will be required to provide the following documentation:
- Proof of Disability: A letter from a licensed healthcare professional stating your disability and the need for a service dog.
- Vaccination Records: Up-to-date vaccination records for your service dog.
Questions During the Check-In Process
During the check-in process, American Airlines may ask you the following questions:
- Is your dog a trained service animal?
- What tasks has your service dog been trained to perform?
- Does your dog have any aggressive or disruptive behaviors?
- Is your dog fully vaccinated?
- Do you have proof of your disability and your dog’s training?
Questions at the Gate
Before boarding the plane, you may be asked additional questions at the gate:
- Can you demonstrate how your service dog performs its tasks?
- Is your dog wearing a service animal vest or harness?
- Is your dog under your control at all times?
Questions on the Plane
Once on the plane, a flight attendant may ask you the following questions:
- Can you secure your dog under the seat in front of you?
- Will your dog remain calm and well-behaved throughout the flight?
- Does your dog have any allergies or special needs?
Questions About Emotional Support Animals
American Airlines does not consider emotional support animals to be service animals. Therefore, you will not be allowed to bring an emotional support animal on an American Airlines flight.
Refusal of Service
If American Airlines determines that your service dog does not meet the required criteria, they may refuse to allow you to board the plane with your dog. This decision is typically made when the dog exhibits aggressive or disruptive behavior, poses a safety risk, or is not properly trained.
Summary: Ensuring a Safe and Comfortable Travel Experience
American Airlines’ questions about service dogs are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. By providing the necessary documentation and answering these questions honestly, you can help facilitate a smooth travel experience for yourself, your service dog, and your fellow passengers.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the definition of a service dog according to American Airlines?
A: A service dog is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.
Q: Can I bring a service dog in training on an American Airlines flight?
A: No, only fully trained service dogs are allowed on American Airlines flights.
Q: What if my service dog is not wearing a vest or harness?
A: While not required, it is recommended that service dogs wear a vest or harness to clearly identify them as such.
Q: Can I bring more than one service dog on an American Airlines flight?
A: Generally, only one service dog per passenger is allowed. However, in some cases, exceptions may be made.
Q: What if I am traveling with a child who has a service dog?
A: The child must be able to control the service dog independently. If the child is unable to do so, an adult must accompany them.
Q: What happens if my service dog causes damage or injury to another passenger?
A: You may be held liable for any damages or injuries caused by your service dog.
Q: Can I bring my service dog on international American Airlines flights?
A: Yes, but you may need to provide additional documentation and meet specific requirements depending on the destination country.
Q: What if I have a disability that is not visible?
A: You are not required to disclose your disability to American Airlines. However, you may need to provide documentation from a healthcare professional if your service dog is not easily identifiable as such.
Q: Can I be charged a fee for traveling with a service dog?
A: No, American Airlines does not charge fees for service dogs.
