All this talk of what the airlines are charging for the details, got me thinking about my lil detail, North. He loves being included in my life – and lets me know when he doesn't feel that way – but, boy, can the price of plane tickets get us down! When looking into a summer trip with my pooch this week, I realized a very shocking (and troubling) fact: JetBlue has doubled the price of a cabin pet from $50 to $100. I spoke with a representative from the airline's corporate communications department who shared some information on this change. Learn what I found out when you read more.
On May 1, 2008, the nonrefundable fee for a high-flying pet became $100 each way. This airline still only allows small pets – weighing up to 20 pounds inside a carrier – to travel under the seat counting as your "personal item." The price change was part of an effort to combat the continual rise in the cost of operation – I was told that a lot of thought was put into this decision, and it could be considered a last resort as the industry is encountering a unique environment because of the price of fuel these days.
The news hits pretty hard, especially considering this airline is known for having some of the lowest one-way fares around – $100 each way could very well put your pet's ticket cost over that of your own! I can definitely understand bringing a doggie or kitty onboard for a big holiday or important trip, but this price point makes it often cheaper and easier to keep pets grounded at a fab boarding facility instead. What do you think? Share your opinions in the comments below.
Stuart Weitzman
Cyberjammies
Burner
Ugh! I always take my Boston Terrier with me on planes and this is annoying. I'm sure the other airlines will be doing something comparable. It's so disheartening.
1I can't believe how much it is, it's like you might as well buy them a seat! It's a bummer, but luckily we don't have to fly very often so it's not a huge issue.
2This is just wild. Thank you for your investigative work petsugar!
3American Airlines charges (currently, anyway) $80 each way, but Pet is right, sometimes it's cheaper to keep them at a great boarding facility. Our point of "diminishing return" is 5 days....if we're going to be gone 5 days or more, it's cheaper to take him with us. He's a great flyer too!
4I agree Renee, we may as well just get them their own seats!
5That's such a bummer! Booo to Jet Blue! Thanks for the heads up - I'll be sure to fly with Virgin Airlines instead.
6That really pisses me off. They're just sitting there in a bag! How do pets increase operation costs? This seems like a misplaced fee increase.
7i DO NOT understand why i should have to pay money to put my dog under the seat where i get to put a carry on for free. it's not any extra space or effort on the airlines part. this has always seemed a ridiculous way to get money out of people who love their animals and want to take them with them on trips. jerks!
8Is it $100 each way or roundtrip?
I'd like to take my 25 lb beagle with me on my next trip, but it seems like such a hassle. :/
9it makes me so mad when i have to pay 100$ each way AND i lose 1 of my carryon bags! (not to mention my dog is MUCH better behaved than the children who take up much more space, weigh much more and ride for FREE)
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