ESA & PSD Airline Policies
Everything you need to know about flying with an emotional support animal or psychiatric service dog under current U.S. regulations.
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)
The ACAA of 1986 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel. Historically, airlines accommodated passengers traveling with ESAs similarly to those with service animals. In December 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a final rule redefining how ESAs and PSDs are treated in the cabin.
What changed in 2021?
Under the new rule, only trained service animals — including Psychiatric Service Dogs — are guaranteed cabin access at no cost. Emotional Support Animals are no longer treated as service animals on flights and are now accepted by most airlines as regular pets, subject to standard pet policies, fees, and carrier requirements.
What documentation do I need for a PSD?
Most airlines require the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, which confirms your dog is trained to perform tasks that mitigate your psychiatric disability. Some airlines also request the DOT Service Animal Relief Attestation Form for flights eight hours or longer. Submit forms at least 48 hours before departure when possible.
Policies by Airline
Policies change — always confirm with your carrier before booking.
American Airlines
Trained service dogs (including PSDs) fly free in the cabin with a completed DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form submitted in advance. ESAs are treated as standard pets.
Delta Air Lines
Accepts trained service dogs on all flights with DOT forms submitted at least 48 hours before travel. ESAs travel as pets and follow standard pet fees and carrier rules.
United Airlines
Trained service dogs fly free with required DOT documentation. ESAs travel as pets in approved carriers with applicable fees.
Southwest Airlines
Trained service dogs are welcome in the cabin with DOT forms. ESAs no longer fly as service animals — pet fees apply.
JetBlue
Service dogs travel free with completed DOT forms 48 hours in advance. ESAs are accepted as pets only.
Alaska Airlines
Trained psychiatric service dogs allowed in the cabin with DOT documentation. ESAs travel as pets.
Need a PSD letter for travel?
A state-licensed therapist can evaluate whether you qualify for a Psychiatric Service Dog letter — usually within 24 hours.
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