Delta to no longer accept pets as checked baggage
By Erin Edgemon | eedgemon@al.com AL.com
Atlanta, GA
series /series Aka Story Package gallery-preview /gallery-preview Aka Secondary Package Delta will no long accept pets as checked baggage effective March 1, the airline announced in a blog post.
Dogs, cats and household birds whose carriers are small enough to fit under an airline seat will still be allowed on all airplanes except for the Delta One. A fee is required.
Airline customers with larger pets must ship them as freight through Delta Cargo.
"Many of us at Delta are pet lovers and we know that they are important members of the family," said Bill Lentsch, Senior Vice President - Airport Customer Service and Cargo Operations. "This change will ultimately ensure that we have a high-quality, consistent service for pets when their owners choose to ship them with Delta Cargo."
Delta had the worst animal safety record of any airline and may be why the airplane changed its policy.
Over the last 10 years, 74 animals died on Delta flights. The number accounts for almost 25 percent of all recorded airline pet deaths, according to the Department of Transportation.
There is an exception to the new rule. Members of the military with active transfer orders will be allowed to transport a pet as checked baggage. Additionally, Delta will continue to accept service and emotional support animals that comply with federal regulations including proper documentation.
According to the airline, pets that travel via Delta Cargo are monitored closely by customer service members during travel. While at airports, pets are handled in temperature-controlled holding areas and vans. Also, Delta Cargo enlists professional kenneling services if overnight stays are required.