Does Spirit Airlines allow pets onboard?

We want you to be able to take your favorite furry friend with you when you travel. That’s why we allow small domesticated pets to travel on all domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. in the guest cabin:

Please note that as of January 11th, 2021, emotional support animals (ESAN) will be required to travel as pets per updated Department of Transportation requirements. In order to travel as a pet, the animal must meet and follow the below requirements.

Spirit will only allow the following pets on the aircraft:

• Domestic dogs
• Domestic cats
• Small household birds (except to / from Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I. )
• Small domestic rabbits (except to/from Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I)

IMPORTANT: Birds that are not considered household birds include farm poultry, waterfowl, game bird, birds of prey, and flightless birds.

Brachycephalic breeds, also known as snub-nosed dogs, may be more vulnerable to risks during air travel. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian to be aware of any special precautions while flying.

To add a pet to your reservation, chat with us here. It’s helpful to make these arrangements when making your travel plans with Spirit due to a maximum of six pet containers permitted on the aircraft during all domestic flights (including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I). View our current charges for pets here.

Guests traveling with pets will need to check-in at the ticket counter. At this time, curbside or self-service check-in is not allowed. Please allow extra time beyond normal check-in guidelines.

Important guidelines when bringing your pet:

• Spirit Airlines does not require a health certificate for pets traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin, except for Guests traveling to USVI.
• Spirit Airlines does require a rabies vaccination certificate for pets traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin to Puerto Rico.
• Spirit only allows small domestic dogs, domestic cats, small household birds and small domestic rabbits on the aircraft.
• Birds are not allowed to and from cities in Puerto Rico or the U.S.V.I.
• Exotic pets such as snakes, spiders, rodents, etc. will not be accepted.
• A maximum of 2 pets per container is permitted, but only one container per guest is allowed.
• Animals must be able to stand upright and move about comfortably in the container.
• Animals must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight.
• The pet should be at least eight (8) weeks old and fully weaned.
• The animal must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and require no attention during the flight.
• If the animal becomes offensive or causes a disturbance prior to leaving the gate; it will be removed.
• The pet cannot be ill, violent, or in physical distress.
• Advance notice is recommended but not required.
• You may choose to sit anywhere you wish with the exception of the first row and emergency exit rows.

Pets in Cargo Compartment
Spirit Airlines does not transport pets in Cargo at any time.

International Travel
Spirit Airlines does not accept animals on international flights, except in the case of service animals.

Depending on the international destination, specific documentation regarding the service animal may be required. Please contact us here and one of our agents will be happy to check destination regulations for you.

Security Screening
You will need to present the animal to the security checkpoint screeners for screening.

Pet Carrier Guidelines
The animal must be in a container subject to inspection and approval by Spirit. The pet will count as one-plus-one carry-on luggage. The dimensions of the container must not exceed 18"x14"x9" (45.72cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86cm) in overall dimensions (L x W x H) and must be able to fit under the seat in front of the Guest traveling with the animal. The pet must remain in the carrier at all times and be able to stand and turn around in the container. Only soft containers are allowed in the cabin, but not the type that allows the pet's head to remain outside. Ensure that the container complies with all government requirements for safe transportation.