Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

If you’re flying with Sun Country Airlines, understanding their pet travel guidelines will help ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. The Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy is designed to prioritize the safety, comfort, and well-being of both pets and passengers. Whether you’re taking a vacation or relocating with your furry companion, knowing the airline’s specific pet travel requirements is essential.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the Sun Country Pet Policy to help you confidently prepare for your journey.

Introduction to Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

Sun Country Airlines offers pet travel options exclusively for small cats and dogs on domestic flights. The airline permits these pets to fly in the aircraft cabin, under specific conditions. Unlike some other carriers, Sun Country does not provide checked baggage or cargo services for animals. This decision aligns with the airline’s focus on keeping pets safe and within the care of their owners during the flight.

The simplicity and clarity of the Sun Country Pet Policy make it an appealing choice for travelers looking to bring their pets along without complications.

Which Pets Are Eligible to Fly?

Under the current Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy, only domesticated cats and dogs are permitted to travel. These animals must meet size and behavior requirements to ensure that they are suitable for in-cabin transport.

Sun Country does not allow the following:

• Birds, rabbits, rodents, or reptiles.
• Exotic pets or large dog breeds that cannot fit into an approved carrier.
• Pets traveling internationally (only domestic flights are eligible).

This policy ensures that pets transported are manageable and that the cabin environment remains safe and comfortable for all passengers.

Approved Pet Carriers: What You Need to Know

Choosing the correct pet carrier is one of the most critical aspects of complying with the Sun Country Pet Policy. The carrier serves as your pet’s designated space throughout the journey, and it must adhere to specific guidelines.

Carrier Requirements Include:

• Soft-sided and flexible: Rigid carriers are not allowed. The carrier must compress slightly to fit under the seat.
• Proper ventilation: The carrier should have multiple breathable mesh panels to ensure airflow.
• Leak-proof base: To prevent any accidents from damaging the aircraft cabin.
• Size compliance: The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you without blocking the aisle.

Importantly, your pet must remain inside the carrier, secured and closed, at all times while on the aircraft.

How to Book a Flight with Your Pet

Booking a pet reservation with Sun Country Airlines is a straightforward process but requires some additional steps beyond booking your own seat.

Here’s how it works:

1. Purchase your ticket: First, book your own flight through the Sun Country Airlines website or customer service center.
2. Call to add a pet: After securing your reservation, contact Sun Country directly by phone to add a pet to your booking.
3. Pay the pet travel fee: This fee is payable at the time of booking your pet’s spot and is charged per flight segment.
4. Confirm your carrier compliance: Ensure that your pet’s carrier meets the airline’s in-cabin requirements before arriving at the airport.

Since there is a limit to how many pets can travel in the cabin on each flight, early booking is crucial to securing a spot for your pet.

Pet Travel Fees: What to Expect

Flying with a pet on Sun Country Airlines requires payment of an additional fee, which covers the administrative and operational costs of accommodating animals in the cabin.

Important details about the pet fee:

• The pet fee is charged per flight segment.
• Fees are non-refundable, even if travel plans change.
• Payment is required when adding the pet to your reservation.

By budgeting for this fee in advance, travelers can avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.

Travel Day Procedures: Arriving at the Airport

On the day of your flight, arriving early is recommended when traveling with a pet. Here’s what you can expect when you reach the airport:

• Check-in at the counter: Pets cannot check-in online. You must complete check-in at the airport counter to verify carrier compliance and pay any outstanding fees.
• Carrier inspection: Airport staff will ensure that the carrier meets size and safety standards.
• Pet behavior assessment: Pets must be calm, non-aggressive, and in good health to be approved for travel.

Giving yourself extra time at the airport helps prevent unnecessary stress and ensures that you have ample time to clear all pet-related checks before boarding.

In-Flight Expectations for Pet Owners

Once onboard, Sun Country Airlines has clear rules to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for all travelers.

Key points include:

• Pets must stay fully enclosed in their carrier at all times.
• The carrier must be placed under the seat in front of you and cannot be moved during the flight.
• Passengers with pets cannot sit in exit rows, bulkhead seats, or premium seating areas with restricted under-seat storage.

Following these in-flight rules ensures that pets remain secure and other passengers are not inconvenienced.

Health and Safety Considerations for Traveling Pets

Although Sun Country Airlines does not mandate a health certificate for domestic pet travel, it’s important for owners to ensure their pets are fit to fly.

Recommended preparations:

• Visit your veterinarian before the trip to ensure your pet is healthy.
• Keep vaccinations current and bring records if necessary.
• Avoid feeding your pet immediately before the flight to reduce motion sickness risk.
• Refrain from sedating your pet unless specifically advised by a veterinarian.

Prioritizing your pet’s health and comfort ensures a better flying experience for everyone involved.

Service Animals vs. Pets: Important Distinctions

While the Sun Country Pet Policy covers domesticated pets like cats and dogs, service animals are subject to separate regulations.

Trained service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted to accompany individuals with disabilities at no additional charge. Passengers must complete and submit the required U.S. DOT forms before their flight. Emotional support animals, however, are classified as pets and must follow the standard pet travel policy.

Knowing the difference helps travelers prepare the correct documentation and choose the appropriate procedures for their situation.

Tips for a Smooth Journey with Your Pet

Successful travel with a pet on Sun Country Airlines depends on preparation, attention to detail, and consideration for your pet’s needs.

Helpful tips:

• Acclimate your pet to the carrier several days before travel.
• Exercise your pet before heading to the airport to expend excess energy.
• Pack essentials such as waste bags, treats, and a collapsible water bowl.
• Monitor your pet’s comfort throughout the travel process, especially during boarding and taxiing.

Being proactive ensures that both you and your pet have a positive experience.

Why Choose Sun Country Airlines for Pet Travel?

The Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy stands out for its simplicity and clarity. With straightforward rules, no complicated cargo arrangements, and an emphasis on keeping pets close to their owners, the airline offers a pet-friendly experience that many travelers appreciate.

Key advantages include:

• Consistent and transparent in-cabin pet rules.
• Reasonable pet travel fees compared to other airlines.
• A customer service team available to assist with pet-related reservations.

For pet owners seeking an airline that truly values animal welfare and customer convenience, Sun Country Airlines is an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for a Great Trip

Flying with a pet doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding and following the Pet Policy OF Sun Country Airlines, you can focus on enjoying your journey with your beloved companion. With clear guidelines, helpful booking procedures, and a focus on in-cabin safety, Sun Country Airlines makes traveling with small cats and dogs simple and manageable.

Advance planning, careful preparation, and attention to your pet’s comfort will set the stage for a successful adventure in the skies. Whether you’re heading to visit family, explore a new city, or embark on a relaxing vacation, Sun Country Airlines provides a reliable way to bring your pet along for the ride.