Del. James Moylan is asking United Airlines to change a travel policy for pets that he says is “unfair” for everyday Guam residents.
Moylan sent a letter to United Airlines CEO and President Scott Kirby after several constituents raised concerns about the pet travel policy.
United doesn't allow civilian passengers to fly with their pets to and from Guam, according to a release from Moylan's office.
United does allow passengers to fly their pets in either the main cabin or in the cargo area under specific circumstances nationally, but it doesn't apply to Guam civilian passengers. Active military personnel are exempt from these provisions, the release states.
“It does seem relatively unfair that everyday residents are denied the very opportunity provided to those in the military,” Moylan wrote.
He said it would be appropriate that the people of Guam be provided equal treatment.
Moylan said that also is a challenge for Guam's law enforcement agencies attempting to fly in detection dogs, which are vital for the island's efforts in reducing the importation of illegal drugs or banned agricultural products.
“The primary concern is this inequity by the airline when it comes to who can bring in pets to the island. Unfortunately, island residents have limited flight options when it comes to travel into the lower 48, as well as Hawaii and Alaska, as UA is the only airline for the most common routes,” said Moylan.
“Secondly, while we absolutely support the exemption provided to military personnel, the airline needs to explain this imbalance. More importantly, they need to address it by amending their policies for Guam residents,” he added.
The letter was acknowledged as received by UA's corporate office, and the delegate looks forward to a conversation with them on this policy.
“While we understand that these are business models and policies that the government can't just go in, infiltrate, and attempt to change statutorily, our objective is to seek answers and solutions from the entity. When it comes to a bond between individuals and their pets, there is no distinction in whether the individual wears a uniform or not,” Moylan said.
Moylan said they've built a working relationship with the UA corporate office, particularly in discussions on the inconveniences island residents face when transiting through Hawaii from Guam.
He said it's an issue that his office continues to work with various entities on and his office will continue to see some resolution to the matter.
