Can you sue an airline for losing your pet?

If your pet suffers an injury or fatality on a plane, the airline may attempt to make a settlement with you that isn't in your best interest and doesn't adequately compensate for your loss. In such cases, it's important to talk to an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your rights and recourse.



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HonestPaws says that between 2010 and 2020, over 250 animal 'passengers' died either during or immediately after airline travel. Another 170 sustained injuries, while 20 animals were actually lost by airlines.

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Yes, there are many circumstances under which you may rightfully sue an airline. Common situations giving rise to airline complaints include: Personal Injury. Physical and Emotional Distress.

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The process is quick and affordable. You may file a lawsuit against an airline in small claims court as long as the amount you intend to sue for is within the small claims court limit (on average $10,000 or less). Up next: Learn more on how to sue an airline in small claims court.

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A pet dog that got lost at Atlanta's airport — considered the busiest in the world — has been found safe three weeks later. Maia, a 6-year-old pup, got lost after flying Delta Airlines from the Dominican Republic to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Aug.

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AirAsia (3.1), Fiji Airways (0.7), South African Airways (0.6), Azul Airlines (0.3) and Jetstar Airways (0.0) round out the bottom five airlines for traveling pet owners as each either doesn't allow pets at all or limits pet travel to the cargo hold.

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Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

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According to the DOT, airlines are not required to provide money or other compensation when flights get delayed, regardless of how late they are. However, when a “significant delay” takes place, passengers may receive refunds for seat selection fees or checked baggage fees.

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Send a demand letter to the airline (also known as an airline complaint letter). File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation. File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). File a small claims lawsuit against the airline.

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DOT requires airlines that fly to, from, or within the United States to state on their websites how and where complaints can be submitted. There may be a form on the airline's website for this purpose. Often, you may also email or write to the airline or ticket agent's consumer office at its headquarters.

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Most airlines ensure your pet boards and disembarks the aircraft on priority. The cargo hold has a special area for pets, and your pet's crate is secured in the plane in its designated space. During the flight, the lights are dimmed, and even the most anxious of pets tend to calm down after the plane takes off.

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Your Pet's Plane Ticket: Choosing the Right Route Pets must be carefully routed through pet-friendly airlines, and any extended layovers must include comfort stops at pet hotels. Airlines also charge higher rates for live animals due to liability and the additional attention they require.

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We do not carry animals on board any Ryanair flights, except guide/assistance dogs on certain routes. For more info on guide/assistance dogs, please click here.

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When it comes to pets in the cargo hold, Alaska Airlines is the only airline that allows a diverse selection of pets. It costs $100 for each pet one way. Alaska Airlines allows dogs, cats, household birds, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, non-poisonous reptiles, tropical fish, and even pot-bellied pigs.

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Alternative to Small Claims: File a Complaint Against the Airline with the Department of Transportation. Besides suing in small claims court you can also file a complaint against an airline with the DOT. The DOT's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (ACPD) reviews and responds to consumer complaints against airlines ...

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Running since 1929, Hawaiian is among the oldest airlines in the world but, remarkably, it has never suffered a single fatal crash or hull loss.

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