Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

If you’re considering bringing your furry friend on your next flight, understanding the Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy is the first step toward a smooth and hassle-free journey. Known for its customer-first approach, Sun Country Airlines offers a straightforward, traveler-friendly pet policy that makes it easier for passengers to fly with their small dogs and cats within the United States.

This detailed guide breaks down every aspect of the Sun Country Pet Policy to help you prepare for a stress-free trip with your pet.

Overview of Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

Sun Country Airlines focuses on simplicity, safety, and comfort when it comes to traveling with pets. The airline permits small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on domestic flights, ensuring pets stay close to their owners in a controlled environment. However, Sun Country does not accept pets for transport in the cargo hold. This policy minimizes risks and ensures that animals are never separated from their owners during the flight.

Unlike some airlines with complicated or unclear regulations, the Sun Country Pet Policy is refreshingly easy to follow, making it a reliable choice for pet owners.

Who Can Travel: Pets Eligible Under the Policy

When flying with Sun Country Airlines, it’s important to know which pets are allowed. Only domesticated cats and dogs are eligible to travel under the Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy. Other types of animals—including birds, rabbits, reptiles, or exotic pets—are not permitted.

Furthermore, the policy applies only to small pets that can comfortably fit in an approved in-cabin carrier. Large dogs, even if domesticated and well-behaved, are not allowed since the airline does not offer cargo services for pets.

By limiting the types of animals allowed onboard, Sun Country ensures that pets and passengers alike have a safe and comfortable flying experience.

Pet Carrier Guidelines: Choosing the Right Travel Bag

Selecting the correct carrier is essential when flying under the Sun Country Pet Policy. The airline requires that pets remain inside their carrier at all times during the flight. The carrier itself must meet specific standards to ensure it fits safely under the seat in front of you.

Carrier Requirements:

• Must be soft-sided and flexible enough to fit under the seat.

• Should be well-ventilated with breathable mesh panels.

• Must be leak-proof to protect the cabin environment.

• Should provide enough room for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Additionally, the carrier will be considered your personal item for the flight. You will still be allowed one standard carry-on bag or checked luggage depending on your purchased fare.

Choosing a high-quality carrier that meets Sun Country’s requirements will make boarding easier and help keep your pet comfortable during the journey.

Booking a Flight with a Pet: What You Need to Know

Adding a pet to your flight reservation with Sun Country requires a few extra steps beyond simply purchasing your own ticket. After booking your seat, you must call the airline directly to add your pet to the reservation. Sun Country limits the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight, so early booking is essential.

Reservation Process:

1. Book your flight ticket through Sun Country’s website or by phone.

2. Contact Sun Country Airlines Reservations as soon as possible to add a pet to your booking.

3. Pay the applicable pet fee during this process.

4. Receive confirmation that space for your pet has been secured.

Since space is limited, it’s strongly recommended to make pet reservations as early as possible after booking your flight. Waiting too long could result in no available spots for pets on your desired flight.

Pet Travel Fees and Payment Details

Flying with a pet on Sun Country Airlines involves a specific fee, charged per flight segment. This means if your journey includes connecting flights, you will need to pay the fee for each leg of the trip. The pet fee is separate from standard baggage fees and is non-refundable.

Key points about the pet fee:

• The fee must be paid at the time of adding the pet to your booking.

• The pet fee applies per flight segment, not per journey.

• The carrier counts as your personal item, but you can still bring a standard carry-on if your fare permits.

Planning your budget to include both pet fees and any additional luggage costs will help you avoid unexpected expenses on your travel day.

In-Flight Expectations for Pets and Owners

Once onboard, pets must remain inside their carriers at all times, under the seat in front of their owner. Sun Country Airlines emphasizes minimal disruption to other passengers, so quiet and well-behaved pets are essential.

Here’s what you can expect while flying with a pet:

• Pets must remain fully enclosed in their carrier throughout the flight.

• Carriers must stay under the seat and not be placed on your lap, even during takeoff or landing.

• Passengers traveling with pets may not be seated in emergency exit rows or bulkhead seats, as these areas lack under-seat storage.

Adhering to these simple rules ensures a smoother flight experience for you, your pet, and your fellow travelers.

Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel

To maximize comfort and reduce stress for your pet, preparation is key. Getting your pet used to their travel carrier well before flight day can help create a positive experience for both of you.

Pre-Flight Preparation Tips:

• Familiarize your pet with the carrier by leaving it open at home with treats, bedding, and toys inside.

• Take short practice trips using the carrier to simulate the travel experience.

• Limit feeding a few hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.

• Exercise your pet before arriving at the airport to help them relax during the flight.

• Pack essentials such as a small water bowl, waste bags, and any medications your pet may need.

Planning ahead reduces the chance of travel-day surprises and sets the stage for a calmer, more enjoyable trip.

Health Requirements and Considerations

Sun Country Airlines does not require a veterinary health certificate for pets traveling on domestic flights. However, it is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure their pet is healthy enough for air travel.

Pets should be:

• Free from signs of illness or injury.

• Current on vaccinations appropriate for their species and age.

• Capable of handling the stresses of air travel, including changes in cabin pressure and noise.

Although sedation might seem like a good way to ease travel stress, it’s generally not recommended. Sedatives can affect an animal’s heart rate and breathing at altitude, so always consult your veterinarian for advice.

Traveling with Service Animals

While this guide focuses on the Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy for domestic pets like cats and dogs, it’s important to note that service animals have separate, specific regulations. Sun Country accepts trained service animals onboard without additional fees, provided travelers submit the appropriate U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) forms before departure.

However, emotional support animals are no longer classified as service animals under federal regulations. They must meet all the same requirements outlined in the standard Sun Country Pet Policy if traveling onboard.

Final Thoughts: Why Sun Country Airlines Is a Great Option for Pet Travel

Traveling with a pet requires thoughtful preparation, but when you choose Sun Country Airlines, you’ll benefit from a clear and easy-to-follow pet policy. The airline’s focus on in-cabin pet travel ensures that pets stay close to their owners throughout the journey, creating a safer, less stressful flying experience.

The Pet Policy of Sun Country Airlines prioritizes the needs of pet owners who want straightforward rules, predictable costs, and minimal hassle when flying domestically with their four-legged companions. By understanding the pet travel rules in advance and preparing carefully, you can look forward to a smooth, enjoyable trip with your cat or dog.

Whether you're taking a short hop across the Midwest or embarking on a longer domestic adventure, Sun Country’s approach makes it easier for pet lovers to take to the skies together.