Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

To ensure a safe and smooth journey, understanding the specific policies of your airline is essential. If you’re planning a trip with your furry friend, the Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy offers straightforward guidelines that make traveling with small pets simple and stress-free.

This guide will walk you through every important detail of Sun Country Airlines' rules for pet travel, helping you prepare for a hassle-free flight with your companion.

Overview of Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy

The Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy is designed to accommodate small pets on domestic flights while ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers. Sun Country Airlines allows small dogs and cats to travel in the aircraft cabin, provided they meet size and carrier requirements.

The airline does not transport pets in the cargo hold, which means pets must be small enough to fit in an approved in-cabin carrier. This policy helps minimize risks associated with pet travel and provides a more reassuring experience for both the animal and its owner.

Sun Country's focus on cabin-only pet travel keeps the process simple and transparent, making it an attractive choice for travelers who prioritize their pets’ safety and well-being.

Eligible Pets for Travel on Sun Country Airlines

Under the Sun Country Pet Policy, only domesticated cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin. No other animals, such as birds, reptiles, rodents, or exotic pets, are allowed on board.

Additionally, pets must be able to fit comfortably inside a carrier that meets the airline’s specifications. Pets that are too large to fit properly inside a carrier placed under the seat will not be accepted for travel.

By focusing exclusively on small dogs and cats, Sun Country Airlines maintains a manageable and safe cabin environment, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy their flight comfortably.

Approved Pet Carrier Requirements

Selecting the right pet carrier is crucial when flying with Sun Country Airlines. The carrier not only serves as your pet’s travel space but also acts as your personal item for the flight.

Carrier Requirements Include:

• Must be soft-sided to allow flexibility under the seat.

• Should be well-ventilated with mesh panels for air circulation.

• Must be leak-proof to maintain a clean environment.

• The pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside.

• Carrier dimensions must fit under the seat in front of you.

Using a carrier that complies with Sun Country’s requirements ensures a smooth boarding process and guarantees that your pet travels safely and comfortably.

Reservation Process for Traveling with Pets

Booking a flight for yourself is only part of the process when you’re traveling with a pet. Under the Sun Country Pet Policy, travelers must make additional arrangements for their animals.

Steps for Pet Reservations:

1. Book your own ticket through Sun Country Airlines' website or customer service.

2. Immediately call the airline's reservations line to add a pet to your booking.

3. Pay the applicable pet fee to confirm your pet’s reservation.

It’s important to note that Sun Country limits the number of pets allowed on each flight. Making your pet reservation as early as possible increases your chances of securing a spot for your furry companion.

If you wait too long, you risk the possibility that the flight’s pet capacity will be full, leaving you with limited options for travel.

Pet Travel Fees and Associated Costs

When planning your trip with your pet, it’s essential to budget for the additional pet fee. Sun Country Airlines charges a non-refundable pet fee for each flight segment.

The pet fee is charged separately from your own airfare and must be paid at the time of booking the pet reservation. Since the fee applies per flight segment, travelers taking connecting flights should anticipate multiple fees.

Understanding and budgeting for these costs early in your travel planning process will help avoid any surprises and ensure a seamless check-in experience on the day of departure.

Check-In Procedures for Pet Travelers

Passengers traveling with pets must check in at the airport ticket counter. Online check-in is not available for those flying with pets.

During check-in, Sun Country staff will:

• Inspect your pet carrier to ensure it meets the airline’s standards.

• Confirm your pet’s behavior is suitable for air travel.

• Assign you a seat that accommodates pet travel (not in emergency exit or bulkhead rows).

It’s recommended to arrive at least two hours before your flight’s departure time when traveling with a pet. Early arrival allows sufficient time for carrier inspections, fee payments (if necessary), and any additional paperwork required at the counter.

Following the check-in procedures carefully ensures that you and your pet board the flight without unnecessary delays or complications.

Cabin Rules for Pet Travel

Once on board, it’s important to follow all cabin rules outlined by the Sun Country Pet Policy to ensure a smooth experience for you, your pet, and fellow travelers.

Key In-Flight Rules:

• Pets must remain inside their carrier at all times during the flight.

• The carrier must stay securely stowed under the seat in front of you.

• You are not allowed to remove your pet from the carrier at any point during the flight.

• The carrier door must remain closed throughout the journey.

These rules are enforced to maintain a controlled environment in the cabin, promoting safety and comfort for everyone onboard. Being familiar with these requirements before flying helps prevent any misunderstandings or issues during your trip.

Preparing Your Pet for the Flight

Proper preparation can make a significant difference in how your pet handles air travel. The days leading up to your flight are crucial for acclimating your pet to the carrier and travel routine.

Preparation Tips:

• Introduce your pet to the carrier several weeks before the trip.

• Take short drives with your pet in the carrier to simulate travel conditions.

• Make sure your pet is comfortable being confined for extended periods.

• Limit food and water intake before travel to prevent accidents.

• Pack necessary supplies, including waste bags, treats, and a collapsible water bowl.

By preparing your pet early, you reduce stress for both yourself and your animal companion, making the flight experience far more enjoyable.

Health and Safety Considerations

While a health certificate is not required for pets traveling domestically with Sun Country Airlines, ensuring your pet’s health is still a critical responsibility.

Consider visiting your veterinarian before the trip, especially if your pet:

• Is elderly or very young.

• Has a history of respiratory or heart problems.

• Has not traveled before and may experience anxiety.

Your veterinarian can provide advice on how to prepare your pet for air travel and whether any medications are recommended. However, never medicate your pet without consulting a veterinarian, as certain medications can negatively impact animals during flights.

Prioritizing your pet’s health will contribute to a safer and more comfortable travel experience.

Service Animals vs. Pets: Important Distinctions

It’s essential to understand the difference between service animals and pets when reviewing the Sun Country Pet Policy. Service animals are defined as dogs trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities and are permitted to travel in the cabin without an additional pet fee, following proper documentation procedures.

Emotional support animals, however, are not considered service animals under current regulations. They must travel as pets under Sun Country Airlines' standard pet policy, which includes booking requirements, carrier rules, and pet fees.

Knowing the difference ensures you meet all necessary requirements and avoid any confusion at the airport.

Why Choose Sun Country Airlines for Pet Travel?

Sun Country Airlines stands out for its pet-friendly approach and clear, straightforward policies. Here’s why many travelers choose Sun Country for flying with pets:

• A simple and transparent in-cabin pet policy.

• Focus on pet safety and passenger comfort.

• Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist pet travelers.

• Competitive pet travel fees compared to other airlines.

The Sun Country Pet Policy reflects a commitment to providing a safe and convenient option for passengers who view their pets as part of the family. Whether you’re taking a short domestic flight or planning a cross-country adventure, Sun Country makes pet travel manageable and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with pets requires thoughtful planning and careful adherence to airline guidelines. Thanks to the clear and straightforward Sun Country Airlines Pet Policy, bringing your small cat or dog along for the journey is easier than ever.

By understanding the pet eligibility rules, booking procedures, carrier requirements, and in-flight regulations, you can set yourself and your pet up for a smooth travel experience. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you and your furry companion can enjoy a safe, comfortable trip from takeoff to landing.

Whether you’re relocating, vacationing, or simply visiting family, Sun Country Airlines provides a welcoming environment for travelers and their pets — making it a preferred choice for animal lovers everywhere.