Flying with a Pet on JetBlue in 2026: Cabin Fees, Carrier Rules, and Restrictions

Introduction

Flying with your furry companion on JetBlue in 2026 means navigating specific rules that directly impact your travel experience. The airline charges $125 each way for cabin pets, limits each flight to just six animals, and enforces strict 20-pound weight limits that include your carrier. Whether you’re planning a quick domestic trip or heading to an international destination, understanding JetBlue’s JetPaws program requirements saves you stress and unexpected complications at the gate.

Only small dogs and cats qualify for cabin travel on JetBlue, and your pet must remain in an approved carrier under the seat throughout the entire journey from boarding to landing.

JetBlue Pet Fee and Booking Process 2026

How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Pet on JetBlue

JetBlue charges $125 each way for pets traveling in the cabin. This non-refundable fee applies to every flight segment, meaning a round-trip costs $250 total. The fee remains consistent whether you fly domestic routes or international destinations that permit pets.

You pay the pet fee when adding your animal to the reservation during booking. The charge does not count toward checked baggage allowances or frequent flyer points. If you need to cancel your flight, the pet fee is never refunded regardless of fare class purchased.

TrueBlue members earn 300 bonus points per flight segment when traveling with a pet. This small perk helps offset the cost for frequent travelers, though it represents only about $3 in value based on typical point redemption rates.

Booking Your Pet Reservation Early

JetBlue restricts each flight to six pets maximum. This hard limit means pet spots fill quickly, especially on popular routes during holiday periods. You can add your pet during initial booking through the JetBlue website, mobile app, or by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583).

The airline operates pet reservations on a first-come, first-served basis. Early booking becomes critical during peak travel seasons like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer vacation weeks when demand exceeds the six-pet limit.

Once you book your pet, you receive a confirmation code specifically for the animal. Keep this code handy for check-in, as gate agents verify pet reservations separately from passenger tickets.

Booking Method	Contact Information	Notes
JetBlue Website	jetblue.com	Add pet in Extras section during booking
JetBlue Mobile App	Available on iOS and Android	Most convenient for managing reservations
Phone Reservations	1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583)	Required for same-day bookings
Airport Counter	Visit ticket counter	Limited availability, book in advance

Where You Can Add a Pet to Your Flight

You select pet travel during the booking process in the Extras section, similar to choosing seats or adding bags. The system automatically checks if the six-pet limit has been reached for your selected flight.

If your flight shows no pet availability, try nearby departure times or consider alternate travel dates. Some travelers book two seats to bring two pets, though each animal still requires a separate $125 fee and its own carrier.

JetBlue Pet Carrier Size Requirements

Maximum Carrier Dimensions

JetBlue enforces strict carrier size limits of 17 inches long by 12.5 inches wide by 8.5 inches high. These measurements represent the absolute maximum dimensions, and carriers exceeding any measurement will be denied boarding even if you paid the pet fee.

Your carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you without blocking the aisle or interfering with other passengers. Seat pitch varies by aircraft type, so a carrier measuring exactly 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches might fit tightly or not fit at all depending on your specific plane.

Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers meet JetBlue standards if they stay within size limits. Soft-sided carriers typically fit under seats more easily because they compress slightly when pushed into tight spaces.

Ventilation and Safety Features

Your carrier must provide adequate ventilation on at least two sides. Mesh panels or ventilation holes ensure your pet receives fresh air throughout the flight. Carriers with solid sides on all panels will be rejected at check-in.

The bottom must be leak-proof to prevent accidents from affecting other passengers or aircraft upholstery. Absorbent pads inside the carrier help manage any accidents during longer flights, though most pets hold their bladder on typical flight lengths.

Secure fasteners keep your pet safely contained. Zippers, snaps, or other closures must function properly with no gaps that allow escape. Gate agents inspect carriers to verify security before allowing boarding.

Where to Purchase Approved Carriers

JetBlue sells carriers at airport ticket counters for $55, though quantities remain limited. The airline’s official carrier measures 16 inches long by 10 inches wide by 8.5 inches high, providing a safe option that guarantees acceptance.

Popular third-party carriers from Sherpa and Sleepypod often appear in JetBlue’s JetPaws promotional materials. These brands design products specifically for air travel and typically pass airline inspections without issues.

Testing your carrier at home before travel day prevents last-minute problems. Ensure your pet can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. A cramped carrier violates animal welfare standards and will be rejected.

Pet Weight Limits and Size Restrictions

20-Pound Combined Weight Rule

The combined weight of your pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds. This strict limit means small dog breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians qualify, while medium breeds exceeding 15 pounds typically cannot fly even in the smallest carriers.

Gate agents verify weight during check-in using airline scales. Carriers weighing 3 to 5 pounds mean your pet must stay under 15 to 17 pounds to meet the requirement. Overweight animals will be denied boarding with no exceptions.

This weight restriction effectively limits JetBlue cabin travel to toy and small dog breeds plus most cats under one year old. Larger cats and dogs require alternative arrangements or different airlines offering cargo services.

Small Dogs and Cats Only Policy

JetBlue accepts only dogs and cats as cabin pets. The airline prohibits birds, rabbits, hamsters, reptiles, and all other animals regardless of size. Even small exotic pets like ferrets or guinea pigs cannot fly.

Service dogs trained to perform specific tasks for passengers with disabilities travel free outside the pet policy. Emotional support animals lost special status after 2021 DOT rule changes and must now fly as regular pets with all standard fees and restrictions.

Breed Restrictions and Limitations

JetBlue does not publish an official breed restriction list for dogs, though the 20-pound limit naturally excludes larger breeds. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus face breathing difficulties during flights and are generally discouraged.

Persian, Himalayan, and Burmese cats also fall into the brachycephalic category. These flat-faced breeds experience respiratory stress in low-pressure cabin environments, though JetBlue does not explicitly ban them if they meet weight requirements.

Pet Type	Allowed	Weight Limit	Carrier Required
Small Dogs	Yes	20 lbs combined with carrier	Yes
Cats	Yes	20 lbs combined with carrier	Yes
Birds	No	N/A	N/A
Rabbits	No	N/A	N/A
Service Dogs	Yes (free)	No limit	No
Emotional Support Animals	Must fly as pets	20 lbs combined with carrier	Yes

Onboard Experience and Cabin Rules

Where Your Pet Stays During Flight

Your pet must remain in its closed carrier under the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing. These critical flight phases require carriers to stay zipped with your pet fully enclosed for safety reasons.

During cruise altitude, you may hold the carrier on your lap if desired, though the pet must stay inside. Some passengers report JetBlue crew members allow the carrier to rest on an adjacent empty seat if available, though this varies by flight attendant discretion.

You cannot remove your pet from the carrier at any time during the flight. Opening the carrier risks the animal escaping, which creates safety hazards and violates federal aviation regulations. Violations may result in denied future pet travel on JetBlue.

Seat Assignment Restrictions with Pets

Passengers traveling with pets cannot occupy Mint business class seats, emergency exit rows, or bulkhead seats. These restrictions exist because pet carriers block evacuation routes or lack under-seat storage space.

Window and aisle seats in standard economy provide the best experience for pet travelers. These locations offer easier access to your carrier and reduce interactions with other passengers. Middle seats force your carrier into a tighter space and increase the chance of disturbing seatmates.

If you purchase an extra seat for a second pet, that carrier must remain on the floor under that seat during critical flight phases. You cannot place it in the adjacent seat’s footwell during takeoff or landing.

Managing Your Pet’s Comfort

Most flights last only a few hours, and healthy pets typically tolerate this duration without needing food, water, or bathroom breaks. Avoid feeding your pet for 2 to 3 hours before departure to reduce the risk of accidents.

Freeze a small amount of water in your pet’s collapsible bowl the night before travel. The ice melts slowly during your trip, providing hydration without spilling during turbulence. This trick works better than filling a bowl with water in the carrier.

Familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket with your scent help anxious pets feel secure. Place calming aids or pheromone sprays in the carrier if your pet experiences travel stress. For insights on managing travel challenges, explore resources about flight delays, cancellations, and passenger rights.

Airport Check-In and Security Procedures

Arriving at the Airport with Your Pet

Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures when traveling with pets. The check-in process takes longer because agents must verify carrier compliance and issue special JetPaws bag tags.

You must visit the full-service ticket counter or speak with a JetBlue crew member in the self-service lobby. Automatic kiosks cannot process pet travel even if you checked in online 24 hours early. Gate agents need to physically inspect your carrier before issuing the JetPaws tag.

Your pet must remain inside the closed carrier at all times in the airport. While some airports provide pet relief areas, accessing them may require exiting security and re-entering through screening, adding 30 to 45 minutes to your timeline.

TSA Security Screening Process

Remove your pet from the carrier at the security checkpoint. Carry your animal through the metal detector while TSA officers send the empty carrier through the X-ray machine. Most pets tolerate this brief separation without issues.

Request to use a private screening room if your pet seems anxious or might bolt when removed from the carrier. TSA accommodates these requests for nervous animals or passengers concerned about escape risks in crowded checkpoint areas.

TSA PreCheck members can bring their pets through expedited screening lanes, making the process faster and less stressful. The PreCheck application costs $78 for five years and benefits both your travel and your pet’s experience.

JetBlue’s JetPaws Program and Bag Tags

The JetPaws bag tag attaches to your carrier and identifies it as approved pet transport. Gate agents verify this tag before allowing boarding, so secure it prominently on the carrier exterior.

JetBlue’s JetPaws program includes partnerships with pet product companies offering discounts on carriers and travel accessories. These promotions change periodically, though the base program simply refers to the airline’s pet travel services.

Domestic Travel Requirements

Minimum Age for Pet Travel

Puppies and kittens must reach at least 8 weeks old to fly domestically on JetBlue. This minimum age ensures animals are weaned and healthy enough to handle travel stress. Bring veterinary records documenting your pet’s birthdate if asked.

Very young animals need more frequent feeding and bathroom breaks than older pets, making them less suitable for air travel. Consider waiting until your pet reaches 12 to 16 weeks for smoother travel experiences.

State-Specific Vaccination Rules

Vaccination requirements vary significantly between U.S. states. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands mandate specific vaccination documentation for all entering pets, including valid rabies certificates issued by licensed veterinarians.

Hawaii has the strictest pet import rules of any U.S. state, though JetBlue does not currently serve Hawaii routes. Other states with heightened requirements include Alaska and territories like Guam.

You bear full responsibility for understanding and meeting each destination’s requirements. JetBlue cannot provide comprehensive state-by-state guidance, and denied entry due to missing documentation results in denied boarding or quarantine costs.

Health Certificates and Documentation

Most domestic travel does not require health certificates, though having current veterinary records proves helpful if questions arise. Your pet should appear healthy, clean, and free from obvious illness or parasites.

Some destinations require health certificates issued within 10 to 14 days of travel. Call your destination’s department of agriculture or animal control to verify exact requirements well before your trip.

Keep all pet documentation in an easily accessible folder separate from your personal travel documents. This organization helps you quickly provide required papers to airline staff, TSA, or authorities at your destination.

International Pet Travel on JetBlue

Approved International Destinations

JetBlue allows pet travel to select international destinations including Aruba, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Canada, Cayman Islands, certain Caribbean islands, and parts of Mexico. The airline prohibits pets on flights to or from the United Kingdom, Europe, and Trinidad & Tobago.

International pet policies change frequently based on destination country regulations and disease risk assessments. Always verify current rules directly with JetBlue and your destination country at least 30 days before travel.

According to JetBlue’s official pet travel policy, customers traveling with pets to Barbados, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, or St. Lucia should begin the import process at least 30 days prior to travel.

CDC Requirements for Dogs Entering the United States

Starting in 2021, the CDC implemented strict requirements for dogs entering the United States from certain high-risk countries. All dogs must appear healthy and be at least six months old. Microchipping is mandatory with documented proof of the chip number.

Puppies entering the U.S. must be at least 16 weeks old and have received rabies vaccination at least one month before travel. You must present a valid rabies vaccination certificate that includes specific information about the owner, dog’s breed and markings, microchip number, vaccination date, vaccine product details, and the administering veterinarian’s signature.

Dogs entering from the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, or Haiti must enter through JFK Airport exclusively. JFK qualifies as a CDC-classified Point of Entry for vaccinated pets from these locations.

Country-Specific Entry Documentation

Each country maintains unique requirements for pet entry. Common requirements include:

• Valid rabies vaccination certificates issued at least 21 days before travel
• Health certificates from licensed veterinarians within 10 days of departure
• Import permits issued by destination agriculture departments
• Microchip identification meeting ISO standards
• Blood titer tests for rabies antibodies
• Quarantine periods ranging from days to months

Some Caribbean destinations like St. Lucia and Barbados require advance import permits that take weeks to process. Missing documentation results in denied boarding or quarantine upon arrival with costs reaching thousands of dollars.

Research destination requirements through official government sources, not third-party websites that may contain outdated information. Contact your destination’s consulate or embassy for authoritative guidance.

Service Animals vs Emotional Support Animals

Service Dog Travel Policy

JetBlue welcomes fully trained service dogs in the cabin at no charge. Service animals must be dogs specifically trained to perform tasks for passengers with disabilities. Psychiatric service dogs also qualify under this category if properly trained.

Service dogs must be at least six months old. They can sit at their handler’s feet, in their lap if small enough, or in the floor space in front of the seat. No carrier is required for service animals.

Passengers must notify JetBlue at least 48 hours before departure when traveling with a service dog. Department of Transportation forms must be completed and submitted through the Service Animal Forms Portal before travel.

Emotional Support Animal Changes

Emotional support animals lost their special status after the Department of Transportation updated regulations in 2021. ESAs now must travel as regular pets subject to all standard restrictions and fees.

This means your emotional support dog or cat pays the $125 each-way fee, must fit in a carrier under 20 pounds, and remains in the carrier throughout the flight. No special accommodations apply even with a therapist’s letter.

Service dog trainee animals are not accepted on JetBlue flights. Only fully trained service dogs that already perform disability-related tasks qualify for free travel outside pet restrictions.

Additional Fees and Costs to Consider

Extra Seat Purchase for Second Pet

You can bring two pets by purchasing an additional seat. Each pet still requires its own carrier and the $125 each-way fee, totaling $250 per direction for two animals.

The second carrier must meet the same size requirements and fit under the second seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing. During cruise, you may hold both carriers on your lap if desired.

The extra seat purchase costs whatever the current fare is for your route and travel date. A typical $200 ticket means $600 round-trip for two pets when combining extra seat costs plus two pet fees each way.

Carrier Purchase Options

Budget $30 to $120 for a quality pet carrier from retailers like Amazon, Chewy, or Petco. JetBlue-approved carriers from Sherpa cost around $60 to $90 depending on size, while premium brands like Sleepypod range from $100 to $150.

The $55 carrier sold at JetBlue ticket counters offers convenience if you forgot yours or encountered problems, though selection is limited. These airport carriers typically match the lower-end retail options in quality.

Investing in a well-ventilated, comfortable carrier benefits both you and your pet. Cheaper carriers may lack durability or sufficient ventilation for safe travel, creating risks the airline could reject.

Pet Stroller Check-In

JetBlue checks pet strollers at the ticket counter at no cost to pet owners. You can also gate-check the stroller if you prefer keeping it until boarding.

Pet strollers help transport carriers through large airports, reducing strain on your arms and back. Popular models collapse for easy gate-checking and don’t count against your baggage allowance.

Tips for Successful Pet Travel on JetBlue

Acclimating Your Pet to the Carrier

Start carrier training weeks before your trip. Place treats, toys, and meals inside the carrier to create positive associations. Gradually extend the time your pet spends inside with the door closed.

Take practice car rides with your pet in the carrier to simulate travel conditions. Short trips to pleasant destinations like parks help your animal view the carrier as a gateway to fun experiences rather than stress.

On travel day, avoid forcing a resistant pet into the carrier at the last minute. This traumatic experience sets a negative tone and increases in-flight anxiety. Patient training prevents these scenarios.

Preparing for Pet Relief Challenges

Expect limited pet relief options once you pass through security. JetBlue’s WoofTop Lounge at JFK Terminal 5 provides an outdoor relief area with artificial grass, benches, and cleaning supplies, but most airports lack similar facilities.

If your pet needs to relieve itself after clearing security, you may need to exit the secure area and return through screening again. This process consumes 30 to 60 minutes depending on security wait times.

Limiting water intake 2 hours before departure and exercising your pet thoroughly before the airport reduces the likelihood of accidents. Most healthy pets easily hold their bladder for 4 to 6 hours.

Managing Anxiety and Stress

Consult your veterinarian about appropriate calming aids if your pet experiences severe travel anxiety. Some vets prescribe anti-anxiety medication for flight days, though sedation poses risks during air travel.

Natural calming products like pheromone sprays and CBD treats help some pets relax without sedation. Test these products days before travel to gauge effectiveness and watch for adverse reactions.

Maintaining a calm, confident demeanor yourself helps your pet feel secure. Animals sense owner anxiety and mirror those emotions, creating a cycle of stress for both of you.

Comparing JetBlue to Other Airlines

How JetBlue Stacks Up for Pet Travel

JetBlue’s $125 each-way fee sits in the middle range compared to competitors. Southwest charges $125, Alaska Airlines charges $100, and American charges $150 for cabin pet travel.

The six-pet limit per flight is more restrictive than some competitors. Alaska allows more pets depending on aircraft size, while Southwest uses a similar restrictive approach.

JetBlue’s in-cabin-only policy limits options for pet owners with larger animals. Airlines like Alaska and American offer cargo services for pets exceeding cabin size limits, though these services cost significantly more and carry higher risks.

For travelers evaluating different carriers, reviewing comprehensive guides on airline loyalty programs in 2026 helps identify which airline best suits your pet travel needs.

Advantages of JetBlue’s Pet Program

JetBlue allows pets on your lap during cruise, unlike many competitors requiring carriers under seats throughout entire flights. This flexibility lets you comfort anxious animals during longer flights.

The airline’s JetPaws program creates a pet-friendly brand identity that attracts animal lovers. Special bag tags and marketing materials reinforce JetBlue’s commitment to pet travelers.

TrueBlue bonus points for pet travel provide small compensation other airlines don’t offer. While 300 points per segment equals minimal value, it’s better than nothing for frequent pet travelers.

Disadvantages Compared to Competitors

The complete lack of cargo or checked pet options eliminates JetBlue for anyone with dogs exceeding 20 pounds. Families relocating or adopting larger animals must use different carriers or ground transport.

Prohibited routes to Europe and the UK prevent JetBlue from serving transatlantic pet travelers. American, United, and Delta all allow pet travel on some international routes where JetBlue does not.

The Mint cabin restriction means business class passengers cannot bring pets even if willing to pay fees and follow rules. Competitors like United allow pets in premium cabins on some routes.

What to Do If Your Pet Is Denied Boarding

Common Rejection Reasons

Oversized carriers represent the most frequent denial cause. Even carriers within the 17 x 12.5 x 8.5-inch limit may not fit under seats on certain aircraft. Gate agents cannot override these physical limitations.

Overweight pets exceeding the 20-pound combined limit face automatic denial. No exceptions exist regardless of circumstances, as safety regulations mandate these limits.

Missing documentation for international travel results in denied boarding to protect both you and the airline from penalties. Destination countries charge substantial fines for arriving with improperly documented pets.

Your Options When Denied

If your pet is denied boarding due to carrier size or weight issues, you must make alternative arrangements. JetBlue cannot hold the flight while you source a compliant carrier or rebook.

The $125 pet fee is non-refundable even when the airline denies your pet for policy violations. You may receive a flight credit for your passenger ticket depending on your fare class, but the pet fee is forfeit.

Consider booking refundable fares when traveling with pets to protect against denial scenarios. The flexibility costs more upfront but prevents losing hundreds of dollars if problems arise.

Preventing Denial Situations

Verify your carrier size and pet weight before travel day. Weigh your pet with the carrier at home using a bathroom scale to ensure you’re under 20 pounds.

Test your carrier under a standard dining chair at home. If it doesn’t fit comfortably, it likely won’t fit under airplane seats. This simple test prevents expensive surprises at the airport.

Contact JetBlue’s customer service line before travel if you have any concerns about compliance. Representatives can review your specific situation and advise whether your setup meets requirements.

Conclusion

Flying with a pet on JetBlue in 2026 requires careful planning, strict adherence to size and weight limits, and understanding that only small dogs and cats qualify for cabin travel. The $125 each-way fee combined with the six-pet-per-flight limit means early booking is essential, especially during peak travel periods. Your carrier must not exceed 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches, and the combined weight with your pet cannot surpass 20 pounds under any circumstances.

International travel demands particular attention to destination-specific requirements, with some countries requiring 30-day advance preparation for import permits and health certificates. The elimination of special emotional support animal status means these pets now face identical restrictions and fees as regular pets. JetBlue’s in-cabin-only policy and Mint cabin prohibition create limitations that may not suit all pet travelers.

Understanding these rules before booking prevents denied boarding situations, lost fees, and travel disruptions. The JetPaws program delivers a generally positive experience for qualifying small pets when owners properly prepare carriers, documentation, and their animals for the journey. For the latest pet travel tips and airline policy updates, visit TalkTravel’s blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to bring a pet on JetBlue?

JetBlue charges $125 each way for pets traveling in the cabin. This non-refundable fee applies to every flight segment, meaning a round-trip costs $250 total. The fee covers only the pet travel privilege and does not include carrier purchase, health certificates, or other travel preparation costs. TrueBlue members earn 300 bonus points per flight segment when traveling with a pet.

What size carrier does JetBlue require for pets?

Pet carriers on JetBlue must not exceed 17 inches long by 12.5 inches wide by 8.5 inches high. The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you without blocking aisles or other passengers. Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are acceptable if they meet size requirements and provide adequate ventilation on at least two sides with leak-proof bottoms.

What is the weight limit for pets on JetBlue?

The combined weight of your pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds. This strict limit effectively restricts JetBlue cabin travel to toy and small dog breeds plus most cats. Gate agents verify weight during check-in using airline scales, and overweight animals will be denied boarding with no exceptions.

Can I bring two pets on JetBlue?

Yes, you can bring two pets by purchasing an additional seat. Each pet requires its own carrier meeting size requirements and a separate $125 each-way fee. Only one pet is allowed per passenger by default, so the second pet necessitates buying an extra seat. Each flight has a six-pet maximum regardless of how many seats passengers purchase.

Does JetBlue allow pets in cargo or checked baggage?

No, JetBlue does not offer cargo or checked baggage services for pets. The airline only allows small dogs and cats in the cabin under the 20-pound weight limit. Pet owners with larger animals must use different airlines offering cargo services or arrange ground transportation.

What documents do I need to fly internationally with my pet on JetBlue?

International pet travel typically requires a valid rabies vaccination certificate, health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 to 14 days of travel, microchip documentation, and destination-specific import permits. Requirements vary significantly by country. Customers traveling to certain destinations should begin the import process at least 30 days before departure.

Can emotional support animals fly free on JetBlue?

No, emotional support animals lost their special status after 2021 DOT regulation changes. ESAs must now travel as regular pets subject to the $125 each-way fee, 20-pound weight limit including carrier, and all standard pet restrictions. Only fully trained service dogs providing specific disability-related tasks qualify for free travel outside pet policies.

How many pets are allowed per JetBlue flight?

JetBlue limits each flight to six pets maximum. Pet reservations operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making early booking essential especially during holiday periods and peak travel seasons. Once the six-pet limit is reached, no additional pets can be added to that flight regardless of available seats.

Where does my pet sit during a JetBlue flight?

Your pet must remain in its closed carrier under the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing. During cruise altitude, you may hold the carrier on your lap if desired, though the pet must stay inside. You cannot remove your pet from the carrier at any time during the flight. Pets are prohibited in Mint business class, emergency exit rows, and bulkhead seats.