Sometimes—but it depends on the airline and the kind of pet you’re traveling with. For most in-cabin pets (especially small dogs and cats), airlines typically require the carrier to stay under the seat in front of you for taxi, takeoff, and landing. Even if you buy an extra ticketed seat, many carriers still can’t be placed on the seat because it can block egress and may not be approved as a “seat item.”
Some airlines may allow you to purchase an extra seat for comfort or extra space, but still require your pet carrier to remain under the seat during key phases of flight. In a few cases, a second seat can help you avoid being squeezed, reduce foot traffic near your carrier, and make it easier to keep your dog calm—especially with a structured, breathable carrier that stays stable and cozy.
Airlines often prohibit placing pet carriers on seats for safety reasons. The carrier generally can’t occupy a seat like a human passenger because it can’t be properly secured with a seatbelt the way approved child restraints can. Policies also vary by route, aircraft type, and whether the pet is traveling as an in-cabin pet versus as a service animal.
If your goal is extra room for your dog, look into upgrading your own seat (like more legroom), selecting a window seat to reduce aisle bumps, or booking a less crowded flight time. Most importantly, confirm carrier dimensions for your specific airline and aircraft, and choose a durable carrier that keeps your pet supported, ventilated, and secure.
For more tips on picking travel-ready comfort gear, visit this guide to pet travel comfort gear and dog carriers.
United generally requires in-cabin pets to stay in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you. Purchasing an extra seat typically doesn’t change the under-seat requirement, so confirm current rules before booking.
Most major airlines do not allow standard pet carriers to be placed on a passenger seat. Only certain exceptions may apply (such as specific service animal rules), so it’s best to verify with the airline directly.
Delta’s under-seat space varies by aircraft, so the acceptable carrier size can differ depending on your flight. Check Delta’s current pet travel page and your aircraft details to avoid last-minute gate issues.
