10 Best Airline Dog Carrier 2025 in the United States

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a solid choice for dog owners needing an airline-approved carrier for medium to large dogs weighing between 70 and 90 pounds. Its size (40 x 27 x 30 inches) provides enough space for dogs like Labradors to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably during travel, which is important for pet comfort on flights. Made from durable polypropylene plastic with eco-friendly recycled content, it offers a sturdy and secure build to keep pets safe.

Ventilation is well thought out, with 360-degree airflow allowing your pet to breathe fresh air from all sides, which is critical during air travel. It also meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) requirements and fits most airline cargo rules, so you can be confident it’s airline-compliant. The crate includes useful extras like live animal stickers, a food and water cup, and absorbent pads to simplify travel preparation. The latch is easy to operate but secure, and the folding top handle adds convenience for carrying.

The kennel is relatively heavy and bulky compared to soft-sided carriers, which may be less convenient for some travelers. Also, because it’s made of hard plastic, it’s less flexible and might take up more space. Though it’s not the lightest option, its durability and compliance make it a dependable choice for air travel with larger dogs. For those seeking a tough, airline-approved crate that prioritizes pet safety and comfort during flights, the Petmate Sky Kennel is worth considering.

The ROVERLUND Airline-Compliant Pet Carrier is designed to make traveling with pets up to 20 lbs hassle-free. Its main strength lies in its compliance with the in-cabin sizing requirements of most major airlines, ensuring you won't have issues bringing your pet on board. The carrier features 3-sides of ventilation, keeping your pet comfortable and well-ventilated during the journey. It also has a leak-resistant bottom, which is especially useful for long trips in case of any accidents.

Constructed from durable marine and mountaineering grade materials, it promises longevity and comes with a 1-year warranty against product defects, although damage caused by pets isn't covered. Another handy feature is its portability; it folds flat for easy storage and has a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash. At 3.2 pounds, it's relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

Some potential drawbacks include its size limitations, as it only fits pets up to 20 lbs. Additionally, while the durable materials are a plus, some users might find the lack of pet damage coverage on the warranty a bit disappointing. This carrier is best suited for pet owners who frequently travel by air with small to medium-sized pets, and who value durability and ease of storage.

The Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier is a solid choice for pet owners needing an airline-approved carrier for small cats and dogs. Measuring 18x11x11 inches, this carrier meets the requirements of major airlines like Delta, American, and United. It's important to note that it's designed for pets under 12 pounds and should fit comfortably within 15x9x12 inches dimensions, so be sure to measure your pet carefully before purchasing.

One of its main strengths is the excellent ventilation provided by the mesh on five sides, which allows your pet to look out and for you to easily check on them. The carrier also features multiple openings with secure, non-slip zippers to ensure your pet cannot escape. The structural integrity is maintained by a combination of stainless steel and fiber rods, preventing sagging or collapse. Made from durable, waterproof, and non-toxic polyester, the carrier is both scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

While the carrier is portable and easy to store, it may not be suitable for larger pets or those that are particularly active and likely to try and escape. The carrier's weight of about 3.73 pounds might seem a bit heavy for some users, especially during longer trips. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Petskd carrier comes with a 12-month warranty and a high customer satisfaction rating, making it a reliable option for frequent travelers with small pets.