TSA Asks Passengers Not To Put Pets Through Airport Security X-Rays

Passengers have been reminded of the best ways to deal with their pets when passing through TSA security. The TSA is keen to reinforce the dangers of putting pets through the scanning machines, and has offered advice on navigating security with an animal.

Can your pet go on your flight?

With many US airlines, passengers can take a small pet like a dog or a cat in a kennel that fits under the seat in front of you. They can travel in the cabin with you as long as they fit. The rules are different for international flights and domestic flights, though, so check the airline policy to be sure small animals are allowed.

The under-seat kennel will generally count towards the carry-on baggage limits. Only dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds are permitted – and must be able to travel without causing a noise or odor disturbance. There are other rules in airline policies that can differ from carrier to carrier, so do check out the guidance from your airline if you need to travel with a pet.

The bottom line: Search the airline website for pet accommodations, preferably before you book your airline ticket. Most airlines have specific directions to accommodate pets.

Navigating TSA security with a pet

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), your pet should be immediately placed into its kennel when you arrive at the airport. However, when undergoing TSA screening, passengers should not attempt to X-ray the kennel with the pet still inside.

Photo: Transportation Security Administration

This might seem like obvious advice, but clearly, there have been some incidents that have prompted the TSA to issue this guidance. Indeed, the TSA says it has seen “too many travelers leaving their pets inside their travel bags and placing their pets through the X-ray unit.”

The scanners used at TSA stations are powerful X-rays, which could harm your pet if they are passed through the tunnel. The TSA recommends removing the pet from the carrier when arriving at security, and proceeding through the walk-through metal detector with the pet in your arms. If you're able to put the pet on a leash, they can also walk through with you.

Photo: TSA

Passengers with skittish pets who might panic once released from their kennel can request assistance from the TSA. They will be taken to a private screening room where the process can be undertaken without the risk of the pet escaping.

There is also the cargo hold option

One should also be gently reminded that there is also the cargo hold as an option. According to Django, the equipment provider for dog owners, most airlines provide a climate-controlled, pressurized compartment below the passenger cabin for pets to stay safe but separated from passengers.

Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying

Pets can travel in kennels in the compartment, but passengers should ensure there is sufficient food and water on hand inside the kennel for the animal, depending on the length of the flight.

What about the risk to the pet?

The risk to pets making air travel is generally very low. The US Department of Transportation requires “animal incident reports” when pet death is in-flight. According to Preventive Vet, the risk is about 1 out of every 10,000 trips with a pet.

But what about service animals?

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the US Department of Transportation has rules in 14 CFR part 382 that guarantee accessibility to those with a disability who need a service animal. A service animal can be a canine helper for the blind or a mental health support. However, airlines such as Delta Air Lines are tightening the regulations on flying with service animals, so again, check with the airline before you book.

Have you taken a pet with you on a flight? Feel free to share your experience with civility in the comments.

Source: Preventive Vet