Alaska Airlines has u-turned its decision to ban rabbits onboard, with the Seattle-based carrier recently announcing that the bunnies will now be permitted to travel in the cabin following customer feedback. The reversal took place on January 14, now meaning that they can travel as long as they are contained in a soft-sided carrier.

Those wishing to take rabbits onboard will be required to pay the pet travel fee of between $100 to $200 per flight; however, there are caveats such as not being permitted to travel to Hawaii or on international itineraries. For rabbit owners, this is a huge win, given that rabbits can be scared very easily, so long journeys by car can lead to death, whereas on flights, they can travel quickly from point A to point B.

Hopping With Joy

Alaska Airlines reversed its decision that was implemented from June last year, following continued customer feedback in relation to the policy change. This led to AS deciding that the decision should be reversed, now allowing rabbit owners to travel with these pets in the airplane cabin.

Small pets are currently permitted on AS and include small dogs, house cats, domesticated rabits and household birds. Birds are only permitted to travel up until April 4 if tickets were purchased before the date of June 5, 2025. Dogs and cats are only permitted in the cabin if traveling within Hawaii or international locations.

To travel with a pet, you must be 18 years or older, and you cannot sit in the emergency exit or bulkhead. The pet counts towards your carry on allocation. First class in total can accommodate up to three pet carriers, while the Main Cabin is permitted to accommodate eight pet carriers.

Rules For Pets Onboard

It is encouraged that those wishing to travel with pets request a spot for them on their booked flight as soon as their tickets are confirmed. These reservations can take place up until the day before travel. These allocations are first-come, first-served. Travelers are permitted to travel with a maximum of two pets, and if traveling with multiple animals, you must purchase a second adjacent seat.

Household birds are permitted for travel up until April 4, when they will no longer be allowed onboard. Dogs, cats, and rabbits must be a minimum of eight weeks old before travel, and must be fully weaned and be able to take solid food. The pet must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight and be secured at all times during boarding and deplaning. Pets must remain stowed under tehs eat for taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Two pets of the same species can travel in the same carrier, as long as no body parts protrude from the carrier, and the animals show no sign of distress. If animals carry offensive odors or create noise disturbance, they will be asked to travel in the climate controlled bagage department. It is encouraged that if you wish to travel with an animal, you speak with the airline to fully understand the expectations for travel.

Preparing To Travel With A Pet

This latest news that rabbits will now be permitted onboard will be fantastic news for those who have previously had to look at alternative travel arrangements to transport their fluffy-tailed friend. If traveling with a pet on any commercial flight that permits domesticated animals, it is encouraged to always reserve your pet early, given there is limited capacity on flights.

It is important to ensure your pet is fed and watered and small enough to stay comfortable in the carry case that will need to be stowed under the seat during important parts of the flight. The carrier should be lined with absorbent material to manage leaks during transit. Sedation is discouraged as this can have adverse effects at high altitudes.

If you are planning to leave your pet behind, Alaska Airlines has you covered, where you can join Rover and receive up to three Atmos Rewards points per dollar spent on your booking, while also receiving a $30 credit for pet care.