Is It Legal To Take A Snake On A Plane?

Taking a snake on a plane is generally legal but highly regulated and subject to strict airline policies and federal regulations. Here is a detailed overview:

Airline Policies on Bringing Snakes on Planes

• Most airlines prohibit snakes from traveling in the passenger cabin unless they are service animals, which typically excludes reptiles. Small dogs and cats are usually allowed, but reptiles like snakes are generally not permitted in the cabin

• Some airlines may allow small, non-venomous snakes (such as ball pythons, corn snakes, milk snakes, and kingsnakes) to travel as carry-on pets if they meet specific size and containment requirements. The snake must be in a secure, leak-proof carrier with air holes and labeled as a live animal. Booking and fees apply5.

• Venomous snakes and large constrictors (over 6 feet) are almost always banned from the cabin and often from the cargo hold due to safety concerns

• Airlines have become stricter about emotional support animals, and snakes are not recognized as service or emotional support animals for air travel purposes

Transporting Snakes in Cargo

• Snakes can sometimes be transported in the cargo hold if properly packaged according to airline instructions, but this is less common and can be risky for the animal’s health1.

• Cargo travel requires specific permits and health certificates, especially when crossing state or international borders

Legal Considerations and Risks

• It is not illegal per se to bring a snake on a plane, but there are serious legal consequences if the snake escapes or causes disruption. The U.S. Department of Transportation can fine passengers up to $37,000 per violation for flight disruption caused by an escaped snake

• Passengers are liable for any costs related to flight delays or cancellations due to their snake, and if someone is injured, the owner may be responsible for medical expenses

• Airlines and authorities prioritize passenger safety and comfort, partly because snakes can carry diseases like Salmonella and because many people have phobias or fear of snakes1.

Summary

• Bringing a snake on a plane is not outright illegal but is heavily restricted.

• Most snakes are not allowed in the cabin; some small, non-venomous snakes may be allowed with advance approval and proper containment.

• Snakes can sometimes be transported in cargo with proper permits.

• Emotional support animal status does not apply to snakes.

• Failure to comply with regulations can lead to fines, liability, and even euthanization of the snake if deemed dangerous.

Owners planning to travel with snakes should carefully check airline policies, obtain all necessary permits, and ensure the snake is securely contained to avoid legal and safety issues

Specific Regulations for Transporting Snakes on Commercial Flights

Transporting snakes on commercial flights is governed by stringent regulations primarily designed to ensure the safety and welfare of the animal, airline crew, and passengers. These regulations are set by international bodies such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and enforced by individual airlines and national authorities.

1. IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR)

• The IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) provide the global standard for transporting live animals, including snakes, by air. These regulations specify requirements for the type of containers used, ventilation, temperature control, and handling procedures to minimize stress and injury to the animal during transport

• Snakes must be transported in containers that are secure, escape-proof, and appropriate for the species, complying with the container requirements detailed in Chapter 8.3 of the IATA LAR. Containers must provide adequate ventilation and prevent injury during handling and flight

• Airlines and handlers must ensure proper air quality, temperature, and pressure conditions are maintained throughout the journey to protect animal welfare

2. Airline Policies and Cabin Restrictions

• Snakes are generally not allowed in the passenger cabin on commercial flights. Airlines prohibit reptiles in carry-on luggage due to safety, health, and passenger comfort concerns

• Emotional support animal policies do not apply to snakes, and since 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation restricts cabin animals to dogs only, excluding snakes from in-cabin travel6.

• Transporting snakes in checked baggage is typically prohibited because of the risk of injury or death due to rough handling and unsuitable environmental conditions in the cargo hold

3. Transporting Snakes as Air Cargo

• Snakes can be transported as cargo if packaged according to IATA LAR standards and if the airline allows live animal cargo shipments. This requires specialized containers, permits, and compliance with animal welfare regulations

• Shipping snakes via air cargo often involves professional animal shipping companies that specialize in live animal transport to ensure the animal’s safety and compliance with all regulations

• Some species, especially venomous snakes, face stricter scrutiny or outright bans in cargo due to safety risks

4. Legal and Permit Requirements

• Transporting snakes across borders or long distances by air often requires permits, health certificates, and compliance with local and international regulations. For example, in the UK, a transporter authorization is required for animal transport over 65 km by air or other means

• The shipper is responsible for planning the journey, ensuring the container meets IATA standards, and having contingency plans for delays or emergencies

Summary

Owners planning to transport snakes by air should consult IATA LAR, contact the airline well in advance, and consider using specialized animal shipping services to ensure compliance and animal safety