CHARLOTTE, NC — American Airlines (AA) announced Monday they will make several changes to their emotional support animal policy effective July 1st.
The airline says some of the changes will include additional restrictions on animal types, including insects, hedgehogs, and goats. American says they will also begin enforcement of an existing 48-hour advanced notice and pre-clearance policy for emotional support animals.
Procedures will be in place however, for emergency travel booked within 48 hours of departure.
American says they met with numerous disability groups prior to making the changes. They say they wanted to ensure policies and procedures were put into place that would protect both team members and customers who have a legitimate need for trained service and support animals.
From 2016 to 2017, officials say American and other airlines saw a more than 40% increase in customers transporting service and support animals onboard the aircraft.
To see the full policy and details for American Airlines, CLICK HERE.
The changes are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2018.
