Florida Airlines That Accept ESA Letters Without Extra Fees
Planning to fly out of Florida with your Emotional Support Animal (ESA)? You may be wondering whether any airlines still recognize ESA letters and allow animals to travel in-cabin for free. Here’s what you need to know about Florida-based flights and ESA travel policies in 2025.
✈️ Why Most U.S. Airlines No Longer Accept ESAs for Free
In January 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation officially changed the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), allowing airlines to stop recognizing Emotional Support Animals as service animals. Since then, most major U.S. carriers have updated their policies to treat ESAs as regular pets.
This means that for most domestic flights from Florida:
- Your ESA will not be allowed to fly for free
- Your animal must fly under pet travel policies (with fees and size restrictions)
✅ Are There Any Airlines That Still Accept ESA Letters?
While most U.S.-based airlines no longer accommodate ESAs without pet fees, a few international carriers and regional exceptions may still recognize ESA letters—especially for flights to or from countries with ESA protections.
1. LATAM Airlines
LATAM, which operates international flights out of Miami and Orlando, still allows Emotional Support Animals on some routes—particularly between the U.S. and countries in South America (such as Brazil, Chile, and Colombia).
Policy: ESA letter required; restrictions based on country-specific laws.
2. Aeroméxico
This Mexico-based airline often accepts ESAs on certain flights between Florida (Miami, Orlando) and Mexican destinations, if you provide the proper documentation.
Policy: Must present an ESA letter from a licensed U.S. mental health professional.
3. China Airlines, Asiana, or Other Foreign Carriers
Some international airlines flying out of Miami International Airport or Orlando International may still accept ESAs depending on destination regulations.
Always call the airline or check their ESA policy online before booking.
❌ U.S. Airlines That No Longer Accept ESA Letters
The following U.S.-based airlines operating in Florida now classify ESAs as pets and charge standard pet fees:
- American Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- JetBlue
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
Typical pet travel fees: $95–$125 per flight (in-cabin only if under size limit)
🧠 Alternative Option: Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)
If your animal is trained to perform tasks related to a psychiatric condition—such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression—you may qualify to fly with a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) under the ACAA, without extra fees.
Learn how to qualify for a PSD letter here.
- No pet fees
- No breed or weight restrictions
📝 What You Still Need for ESA Housing or Ground Travel
Even if you can’t use your ESA letter for flights, it still provides protection under the Fair Housing Act. You can live with your ESA in “no-pet” rental communities without fees or pet deposits.
Need a valid ESA housing letter in Florida? Start your assessment here.
🌴 Final Thoughts for Florida ESA Travelers
While most U.S. airlines no longer accept ESA letters for free air travel, a few international carriers flying out of Florida may still make exceptions. If flying regularly with your ESA is important, consider PSD training and certification to regain access to in-cabin travel without fees.
Take the next step: Get evaluated for an ESA or PSD letter today and travel with confidence.
