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 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.

The Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel is a solid option for pet owners needing an airline-friendly carrier for dogs around 20-25 pounds. It measures 26" long, 18.6" wide, and 16.5" high, which fits medium-sized pets comfortably, though if your dog is close to the upper limit, you might want to consider a slightly larger size. Made of durable plastic, this kennel offers sturdy protection and is easy to clean thanks to its smooth shell and a stay-dry moat that helps keep your pet dry in case of accidents. Ventilation is good with openings on four sides, ensuring your dog gets fresh air during travel. The kennel meets most airline cargo requirements, making it suitable for air travel, and includes a secure wire door with an easy-open latch to keep your dog safely inside.

The fold-down handle adds convenience for carrying and portability, though at 5.4 pounds, it is not the lightest option available but still manageable. While it doesn’t have extra padded comfort features built-in, it’s a dependable choice for travel and training purposes. Its design is simple and effective, with built-in storage for pet ID, which adds a helpful touch for identification. If you want a straightforward, sturdy, and airline-approved crate that’s easy to maintain, this model is worth considering, especially for medium dogs and pet owners who value durability and practicality.