DOT Airline Rules Explained
Many Iowa residents rely on emotional support animals (ESAs) for daily comfort and emotional wellness. But if you’re planning a trip and wondering whether your ESA can fly with you from an Iowa airport like Des Moines International or Eastern Iowa Airport, recent federal rule changes may affect your plans. This article explains the current U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, what’s allowed, and what to expect when traveling with your ESA.
2021 DOT Rule Change: What It Means for ESAs
As of January 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation officially changed the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) to no longer require airlines to accommodate emotional support animals as service animals. This means airlines can now treat ESAs as regular pets—and many no longer allow them in the cabin for free or with special privileges.
Can You Fly with an ESA from Iowa Airports?
Yes, but not in the way you used to. If you’re departing from airports in Iowa like Des Moines International (DSM), Cedar Rapids’ Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), or others, here’s what you need to know:
- Most major U.S. airlines no longer recognize emotional support animals as service animals.
- Your ESA will likely be treated as a pet, subject to pet carrier requirements and pet fees.
- Each airline has different policies—some still allow small pets in the cabin if they meet size and weight requirements.
Airlines That No Longer Accept ESAs
Major airlines that have updated their policies include:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
These carriers now treat ESAs as regular pets. However, psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) are still recognized under ACAA protections—with proper documentation and training.
What About International Flights?
If you’re flying internationally from Iowa, ESA policies vary widely by country and airline. Some international airlines still accept emotional support animals with documentation, especially for flights departing outside the U.S. Always check with your airline before booking an international ticket.
Traveling with a Psychiatric Service Dog Instead
Because of the new rules, some ESA owners may qualify for a psychiatric service dog (PSD) instead. PSDs are trained to perform tasks related to a mental health condition—such as interrupting panic attacks or reminding medication. These animals are still protected by federal law and may travel in-cabin at no extra charge if accompanied by proper DOT paperwork.
ESA Letter Still Matters for Housing
While ESA letters are no longer required for air travel, they are still 100% valid for housing purposes in Iowa. If you rely on your ESA at home, your ESA letter remains essential for protecting your rights under the Fair Housing Act.
How CertifyESA Supports Iowa ESA Owners
CertifyESA helps Iowa residents get legally compliant ESA letters from licensed mental health professionals. While ESA letters are no longer used for air travel, our evaluations remain critical for housing rights and can help you explore whether you qualify for a psychiatric service dog for flights.
Checklist for ESA Owners Traveling from Iowa
- Check your airline’s pet policy in advance
- Book flights early to reserve pet-friendly seating (if allowed)
- Use an airline-approved pet carrier
- Bring all health/vaccination records
- Call the airline 48+ hours in advance if traveling with a PSD
Final Thoughts on ESA Air Travel from Iowa
Although federal rules no longer guarantee in-cabin travel for emotional support animals, Iowa residents still have options. Understanding the airline’s specific policy, knowing the difference between an ESA and a psychiatric service animal, and preparing ahead of time will ensure a smooth journey. For ESA housing documentation or PSD evaluations, work with trusted professionals to stay protected and travel with confidence.