Turtles On American Airlines: What You Need To Know

American Airlines has banned turtles, along with ferrets, goats, insects, and birds of prey, from being brought into the cabin of their flights. This change in policy was due to a 40% increase in animals travelling with the airline. Passengers with emotional support animals like dogs and cats are now required to submit documents showing that the animals are healthy, trained, and have been recommended by a medical professional. While there are no specific regulations for turtles, it is advised to contact the airline directly to avoid any problems.

American Airlines' pet policy

American Airlines Pet Policy

American Airlines allows pets to travel as carry-on or cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age, and destination requirements. The airline also accepts checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty US military and US State Department Foreign Service personnel travelling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply for checked pets.

Carry-on pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside a closed/zipped carrier and stay in the carrier under the seat for the entire flight. The combined weight of the carrier and pet cannot exceed 20 lbs.

Checked pets must be in a kennel large enough for the pet to stand, turn, sit, and lie down in a natural position. The combined weight of the pet and kennel must not exceed 100 lbs.

American Airlines Cargo offers transport for pets that don't qualify as carry-on or checked pets. This includes cold-blooded animals, which are exempt from the airline's temperature restrictions.

Service dogs that are fully trained may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements. A service dog is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a qualified individual with a disability.

When travelling with a pet, there are specific destination restrictions to keep in mind. For example, you cannot travel with a carry-on pet when travelling to/from Hawaii, the European Union, or on transatlantic or transpacific trips. Additionally, there are temperature restrictions to ensure pets aren't exposed to extreme heat or cold.

Turtles as carry-on luggage

While there are no airline regulations specifically banning turtles from planes, American Airlines does not allow turtles in the cabin. This means that you cannot take a turtle on American Airlines as carry-on luggage.

Alternative options

If you need to travel with your turtle, you could consider using an airline that allows turtles in the cabin, such as Delta Airlines, or shipping your turtle using a service like shipyourreptiles.com.

Preparation

If you choose to fly with your turtle, you will need to do some preparation. Firstly, you should contact the airline and ask about their policy on turtles. They will likely ask about the size, species, and other specifications of your turtle. You will also need to provide a suitable container for your turtle, and some airlines may require you to have an approved kennel. In addition, you should ensure that your turtle has all the necessary vaccinations and medical checks, and that you have the relevant documentation to prove this. It is also recommended that you feed your turtle 4-5 hours before the flight and provide a plastic carrier with towels soaked in water to maintain high humidity levels during the flight.

Restrictions

It is important to note that there are some restrictions on travelling with turtles. In most cases, turtles will not be allowed to travel in the cabin if the flight duration is more than 12 hours or if it is an international flight. There may also be temperature restrictions, as turtles need to be kept within a certain temperature range during transport.

Turtles in the cargo hold

If you're planning to fly with your turtle, it's important to do your research beforehand as there are no specific regulations for turtles on planes. While some airlines may allow turtles in the cabin, others may require them to be placed in the cargo hold, especially for long-haul or international flights.

American Airlines' Pet Policy

American Airlines does not allow turtles in the cabin of their planes. They have banned several animals, including turtles, ferrets, birds of prey, insects, snakes, hedgehogs, and goats, from being transported in the cabin. This decision was made due to a significant increase in the number of animals travelling with the airline.

Preparing Your Turtle for Cargo

If your turtle needs to travel in the cargo hold, there are several steps you need to take to ensure its safety and compliance with airline regulations:

• Contact the airline: Reach out to the airline directly and inquire about their specific policies regarding turtles and other pets. Ask about any restrictions, container requirements, and necessary documentation.
• Container requirements: Ensure that you have an approved kennel or carrier for your turtle. It should be large enough for your turtle to move around comfortably and meet the airline's size and material specifications. The container should also have adequate ventilation and include food and water dishes attached securely inside.
• Veterinary examination: Obtain a medical note from your veterinarian, ensuring that your turtle is healthy and approved for travel. This documentation may be required by the airline.
• Temperature considerations: Check the ground temperatures at each stop on your itinerary to ensure they are within an acceptable range for your turtle's safety.
• Feeding and hydration: Feed your turtle 4-5 hours before the flight to prevent contamination of the bedding material. Provide a small bag of food attached to the container, sufficient for a 24-hour period.
• Absorbent bedding: Use towels or other absorbent material in the container to provide a comfortable and safe environment for your turtle.
• Cargo booking: Book a prepaid cargo ticket for your turtle, following the airline's instructions and guidelines.

Important Considerations

• International travel: Be aware that there may be additional restrictions and documentation requirements when travelling internationally with your turtle. Research the regulations of your destination country to ensure compliance.
• Smuggling: Do not attempt to sneak your turtle onto a plane without declaring it. This is illegal and can lead to serious consequences if discovered.
• Stress and safety: Travelling can be stressful for turtles, but it is not inherently dangerous if the necessary precautions are taken. Ensure your turtle's carrier is secure, well-ventilated, and provides a comfortable environment.

Preparing a turtle for air travel

If you're planning to travel with your pet turtle, there are several important steps you should take to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some detailed instructions to prepare your turtle for air travel:

Contact the Airline:

Before making any travel plans, reach out directly to the airline you intend to fly with. Inquire about their specific policies regarding travelling with pet turtles. Some airlines may have restrictions or requirements that you need to be aware of. For example, American Airlines has banned certain animals, including turtles, from their cabins, but other airlines like Delta may offer more flexibility.

Container and Carrier Requirements:

Familiarise yourself with the airline's container and carrier requirements. The carrier must meet the airline's size and safety specifications. It should be large enough for your turtle to move comfortably and provide adequate ventilation. If your turtle is larger or belongs to an exotic breed, you may need to place it in the cargo hold, so be sure to ask about their cargo policies as well.

Health and Vaccination Records:

Ensure your turtle is in good health and has all the necessary vaccinations up to date. Some airlines may require a medical note from your veterinarian, certifying that your turtle is fit to travel. This is especially important if your turtle belongs to a rare or expensive breed, as it may be subject to additional scrutiny.

Temperature Considerations:

Turtles are sensitive to temperature changes, so check the ground temperatures at each travel stop to ensure they are within a safe range for your turtle. Remember that cargo holds can get extremely cold, so consider this when deciding where your turtle will travel on the plane.

Feeding Schedule:

It is recommended to feed your turtle 4-5 hours before the flight. This will ensure that your turtle has the energy to endure the journey without contaminating its carrier.

Documentation:

If your turtle is a rare or expensive breed, make sure you have all the necessary documentation to prove ownership and comply with any poaching or smuggling regulations.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your turtle is prepared for air travel and that you are compliant with the airline's policies. Remember to always put your turtle's safety and well-being first when making travel arrangements.

Restrictions on turtle transportation

As of July 1, 2018, American Airlines no longer permits turtles in the cabin of its aircraft. This change in policy came about due to a 40% increase in animals travelling with the airline. This restriction also applies to ferrets, birds of prey, insects, snakes, hedgehogs, and goats. Passengers wishing to bring emotional support dogs and cats on board must submit documentation showing that the animal is healthy, trained, and has been recommended by a medical professional at least 48 hours before their flight.

While some airlines do allow turtles on board, American Airlines is not one of them. This means that if you are travelling with a turtle, it will have to go in the cargo hold. This can be stressful for the animal, and there are several steps you must take to ensure its safety. Firstly, you must contact the airline and ask about their policy on turtles, as well as any container or carrier requirements. The carrier must be large enough for the turtle to stand, turn, sit, and lie down in a natural position, and it must be well-ventilated. You will also need to provide a health certificate from a veterinarian, and the ground temperatures at each stop must be within a certain range.

Turtles are not allowed in the cabin of American Airlines flights due to safety concerns. They are considered dangerous to human society as they are carriers of Salmonella and other harmful bacteria, which can be particularly harmful to the elderly, pregnant women, and children. In addition, turtles require specific habitats with controlled temperature and humidity levels, which cannot be provided in the cabin of an aircraft. Furthermore, rare and exotic turtles are often the target of smuggling attempts, and airlines do not want to take on the responsibility of transporting them.

It is important to note that attempting to sneak a turtle onto a plane is not a good idea. Airports have strict security measures in place, and your luggage will be searched using X-ray machines. If you are caught trying to smuggle a turtle, you will face serious consequences. Therefore, it is always best to declare that you are travelling with a turtle and follow the proper procedures to ensure its safe transport.

Frequently asked questions