Taking your ESA on a flight out of Texas

What the DOT rule says

DOT unveiled its final rule on December 2, 2020, with an effective date of January 11, 2021. From then on, an airline doesn't have to accept an ESA in service-animal status and is free to process it as a pet.

The definitions section, 14 CFR 382.3, now keeps that term for dogs only (breed doesn't matter) with individual training in disability work or tasks. Animals kept for comfort, companionship or emotional support are named and excluded.

How Texas-based airlines responded

Dallas-based Southwest Airlines stopped accepting ESAs on March 1, 2021. Its announcement said those animals could still travel as pets for a fee, limited to dogs and cats. American Airlines says emotional support and comfort animals may travel as pets, with all pet requirements and fees applying.

Carrier rules shift over time, so pull up the current pet page before you buy a ticket, even if you've flown with your animal recently.

Texas airports you might use

Federal rules don't vary between them. What does vary is each carrier's pet program, and sometimes how far you'll walk to an animal relief area, so look at your terminal map before travel day.

• Dallas-Fort Worth: Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL).
• Houston: George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby (HOU).
• Austin: Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS).
• San Antonio: San Antonio International (SAT).

Booking your ESA as a cabin pet

1. Read the pet policyFind the airline's current rules on species, size, carrier dimensions, age and how many pets are allowed per flight.
2. Reserve the pet earlyCabin pet spots are often limited per flight, so add your animal when you book.
3. Budget for the feePlan on paying a pet charge for every leg. The ESA letter won't cancel it.
4. Practice with the carrierCabin pets generally travel zipped in a soft bag that fits under the seat. Short practice sessions at home make the day calmer.
5. Check your destinationForeign countries and some U.S. destinations set animal import rules independent of the airline.

How psychiatric service dogs differ

Psychiatric service dogs perform learned tasks that relate to a mental health disability. DOT's rule puts them on equal footing with every other kind of service dog. Carriers may require DOT's forms and can cap each traveler at two service animals.

Relabeling an ESA as a service dog to dodge the pet fee isn't a loophole. It breaks airline rules, and Texas HRC §121.006 makes a knowing false service-animal claim a misdemeanor; the fine tops out at $1,000, and 30 community-service hours come with it.

Where your ESA letter still helps

Your letter's main job today is at home. It supports a housing accommodation request under the Texas Fair Housing Act and federal law. If you're moving to Texas by plane, fly with your animal as a pet and use your letter with your new landlord.