10 Best Airline Dog Carrier 2025 in the United States

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a solid choice for dog owners needing an airline-approved carrier for medium to large dogs weighing between 70 and 90 pounds. Its size (40 x 27 x 30 inches) provides enough space for dogs like Labradors to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably during travel, which is important for pet comfort on flights. Made from durable polypropylene plastic with eco-friendly recycled content, it offers a sturdy and secure build to keep pets safe.

Ventilation is well thought out, with 360-degree airflow allowing your pet to breathe fresh air from all sides, which is critical during air travel. It also meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) requirements and fits most airline cargo rules, so you can be confident it’s airline-compliant. The crate includes useful extras like live animal stickers, a food and water cup, and absorbent pads to simplify travel preparation. The latch is easy to operate but secure, and the folding top handle adds convenience for carrying.

The kennel is relatively heavy and bulky compared to soft-sided carriers, which may be less convenient for some travelers. Also, because it’s made of hard plastic, it’s less flexible and might take up more space. Though it’s not the lightest option, its durability and compliance make it a dependable choice for air travel with larger dogs. For those seeking a tough, airline-approved crate that prioritizes pet safety and comfort during flights, the Petmate Sky Kennel is worth considering.

The Katziela Pet Carrier is designed with air travel in mind, especially for small dogs and cats. Its size (about 19 x 13 x 15 inches) fits most airline requirements, and it features a clever compressible mesh top that can be pressed down to fit under airplane seats. The carrier is made from durable nylon and includes mesh windows on the sides and top, which provide good ventilation and allow your pet to see outside, helping reduce anxiety during travel.

Comfort is addressed with a soft fleece bed inside and a safety leash clip to keep pets secure. Portability is enhanced by its six-wheel rolling system, where the front wheels rotate fully for easy steering and rear wheels keep it stable, plus a shoulder strap for carrying when needed. You can also remove the baseboard and wheels to make the carrier more flexible and fit tighter spaces, which is great for navigating crowded airports or public transport.

A downside is that it weighs over 8 pounds, which might feel heavy if you need to carry it for long periods. The design, while structured, still relies a lot on the mesh and soft sides, meaning very active pets might be less contained compared to hard carriers. This carrier represents a solid choice if you want a breathable, airline-approved soft carrier with wheels that make travel easier, especially for calm, small pets.

The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel is designed for small pets and measures 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches. It is constructed from durable molded plastic with a metal wire door and side panels for ventilation, ensuring your pet gets ample air during travel. The single door for front entry has a secure locking mechanism, enhancing safety. A top handle adds to its portability, making it easier to carry around.

This kennel is made to be sturdy and reliable, reassuring pet owners about their pets' security during travel. However, it’s worth noting that this carrier may be more suitable for smaller pets like puppies or small breeds due to its size. In terms of airline regulations, while it is generally compliant, it’s always best to check specific airline requirements beforehand.

Though the hard-sided design offers durability, it might not be as comfortable as soft-sided carriers, especially for extended travel. Despite these minor drawbacks, the kennel is a practical choice for short trips and vet visits, with a good balance of strength, ventilation, and portability.