Copa Airlines Pet Policy for Dogs in 2026
See Copa’s current dog travel rules, in-cabin fees, carrier limits, and booking steps before you fly.
Copa Airlines Pet Policy Overview
Copa Airlines accepts only small dogs and cats in the cabin on eligible Copa-operated flights, subject to space limits and route restrictions.
Your dog must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight, and the carrier replaces your standard carry-on bag. Copa says pets are not accepted in Business Class, row 5, or exit-row seats, and airport staff verify weight and carrier size at check-in or the gate. You must also bring vaccination and health documents plus any destination-entry paperwork required.
Last updated: 2026-03-25
How to Book Your Dog on Copa Airlines
Confirm your itinerary is operated by Copa Airlines and does not include interline or codeshare segments. Copa’s pet-in-cabin policy does not apply on those itineraries.
Check that your dog qualifies. Copa only accepts small dogs and cats in the cabin, and the combined weight of your dog plus carrier must be no more than 10 kg (20 lb). Your dog must be at least 16 weeks old.
Use an approved soft-sided carrier. The maximum published size is 18 x 11 x 11 inches, and your dog must fit safely inside without any body part protruding.
Reserve the pet space early. Copa instructs travelers to book the pet at least 48 hours before departure, or at the time of ticket purchase, through its Sales Offices or Reservation Center. Space is limited, with only 3 pets allowed in Main Cabin per flight.
Review seat restrictions before travel. Copa does not allow pets in Business Class, row 5, or emergency-exit seats, so make sure your assigned seat is eligible.
Prepare documents. Bring your dog’s current vaccination certificate, certificate of good health, and any import or entry documents required by the destination country.
Print and complete Copa’s pet-in-cabin terms and conditions form before heading to the airport.
Arrive early for airport check-in. Copa states that agents at the counter or gate will verify the carrier dimensions and the combined weight of your dog and carrier. If you arrive without a reservation, transport is only subject to availability.
Pay the applicable pet fee and keep your dog in the carrier throughout the airport and flight. The pet carrier replaces your carry-on allowance.
Copa Airlines vs Other Airlines
| Feature | Copa Airlines | Delta Air Lines | American Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin Fee | USD 125 international / USD 25 domestic | USD 200 international; USD 150 within U.S./Canada/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands for tickets issued on/after Apr. 8, 2025 | USD 150 per kennel each way |
| Cargo Fee | No standard published pet cargo option in Copa’s pet policy | Cargo/checked options vary; Delta Cargo embargo noted for AVIH in agency policy | Varies via American Airlines Cargo; checked pets only for eligible military/State Department travelers |
| Weight Limit | 10 kg (20 lb) pet + carrier | No single published combined in-cabin weight limit; pet must fit comfortably in kennel under seat | 20 lb (9.07 kg) pet + carrier on applicable in-cabin routes |
| Carrier Size | Soft-sided only, 18 x 11 x 11 in | Recommended soft-sided 18 x 11 x 11 in; must fit under seat | Soft-sided 18 x 11 x 11 in recommended; hard-sided 19 x 13 x 9 in on mainline |
| Breeds Restricted | No published breed list for in-cabin pets; only small dogs and cats accepted | Snub-nosed dogs restricted for checked travel; destination embargoes apply for some origins | Brachycephalic/snub-nosed dogs restricted for checked travel; carry-on subject to route rules |
| Booking Method | Reserve through Sales Offices or Reservation Center at least 48 hours before departure | Contact Delta Reservations in advance; first-come, first-served | Add carry-on pet in aa.com/app, then pay at airport check-in |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Copa Airlines allow dogs in the cabin?
Yes. Copa Airlines accepts small dogs and cats in the cabin on eligible Copa-operated flights, as long as the pet meets the size, age, carrier, and documentation requirements.
How much does Copa Airlines charge for a dog in cabin?
Copa publishes a pet-in-cabin fee of USD 125 on international flights and USD 25 on domestic flights, plus applicable taxes.
What size carrier can I use on Copa Airlines?
Copa says pets must travel in a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 x 11 x 11 inches.
What is the weight limit for a dog on Copa Airlines?
The combined weight of the dog and carrier must not exceed 10 kg, which Copa lists as 20 pounds.
Can I book my dog online with Copa Airlines?
Copa instructs passengers to reserve pet travel through its Sales Offices or Reservation Center at least 48 hours before departure, or when buying the ticket. The airline does not publish a standard self-service online pet booking flow on the policy document.
Are pets allowed on all Copa Airlines flights?
No. Pets are not accepted on interline or codeshare itineraries, and flights to or from Armenia (AXM), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), and Tampa (TPA) accept pets only Monday through Friday.
Can I sit anywhere on the plane with my dog?
No. Copa says passengers traveling with pets cannot travel in Business Class, row 5 seats, or emergency-exit rows.
What documents do I need to fly with my dog on Copa Airlines?
You should bring your dog’s current vaccination certificate, a certificate of good health, and any destination-specific entry documents. Copa also requires its pet-in-cabin terms and conditions form to be handed in at the airport on the day of departure.