If you’re planning on flying Delta Air Lines or JetBlue, keep in mind that your emotional support animal (ESAs) is now banned on all flights. The two airlines are the latest major carriers to make the change.
The final decision stemmed from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)’s revision that ESAs will no longer be categorized as service animals on flights in the Air Carrier Access Act. Effective on January 11th, only trained dogs are allowed on flights along with proof of registration as a trained service dog.
Delta and JetBlue joined Alaska Airlines and American Airlines in banning support animals on flights.
David Garrison, S.V.P. Corporate Safety and Security at Delta said in a news release, “Delta’s updated policy follows a nearly 85% increase in animal incidents since 2016, including urination, defecation and biting. Our top priority is the health, safety and comfort of Delta customers and our people. We strongly believe this policy change will enhance the overall travel experience for everyone.”
If you have a flight with an ESA through February, your animal will be allowed on the flight as long as you submitted the necessary paperwork by December 20th, 2020.
