AAPR applauds DOT final rule on pet safety

WASHINGTON, DC – The Association for Airline Passenger Rights, (AAPR) today praised the new regulations expanding pet safety promulgated by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Among other things, all covered carriers will be required to file a calendar-year report that will include the total number of animals transported, and the total number of animals that were lost, injured, or died during air transport in the calendar year. The regulations complement AAPR’s “Passenger Guide to Pet Safe Travel,” which was published last year.

“This rule will provide consumers with a fuller picture of an airline’s safety record when it comes to transporting animals,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Consumers deserve clear and accurate information when choosing among air transportation options.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), airlines reported five incidents involving the loss, death, or injury of pets while traveling by air in December 2012, which is last reported data. The incidents involved one pet death and four pet injuries. For all of last year, carriers reported 30 pet deaths, 27 pet injuries, and one lost pet. In 2011, carriers reported 35 pet deaths, nine pet injuries, and two lost pets.[1]

The final rule is available at http://www.ofr.gov/OFRUpload/OFRData/2014-15503_PI.pdf.

The guide includes information about pet-related incidents, pet health and immunization requirements, general airline information, cabin and cargo requirements, security procedures, service animals for passengers with disabilities, and other resources.