Moving to a new duty station is a significant event for military families, and it includes ensuring the safe and comfortable relocation of all family members, including pets. For those utilizing AMC Patriot Express flights for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, understanding the guidelines for pet travel, especially concerning Travel Dog Kennels, is crucial. This guide provides essential information for service members and their families planning to transport their dogs or cats on AMC flights.
Booking pet travel on AMC Patriot Express requires careful planning due to limited space. Pet reservations are exclusively for passengers in PCS status and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure a spot for your pet, it is imperative to contact your local Traffic Management Office (TMO) or Installation Transportation Office (ITO) as early as possible in your moving process. Remember, reservations are limited to two pets per family, and pets must be accompanied by their owner, with all transportation expenses borne by the owner. It’s important to note that AMC itself cannot grant exceptions to policy regarding pet transportation eligibility; any exception requests must go through the traveler’s service headquarters and receive approval from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense.
When preparing for your pet’s journey, several documents are necessary. The AMC Pet Pamphlet is a vital resource, offering comprehensive information on pet transportation aboard Patriot Express flights for PCS moves. You’ll also need to complete and sign the AMC Pet – Risk Acknowledgement Document (RAD), acknowledging the inherent risks of air travel for pets, particularly for brachycephalic breeds. This document must be presented to the Passenger Service Agent during check-in. Furthermore, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with information regarding pet safety in extreme heat to ensure your pet’s well-being before, during, and after the flight. For service animals, a Statement of Assurance is required at least 48 hours before departure.
Check-in procedures for pets on AMC flights have specific timeframes. At Baltimore/Washington International Airport, pet check-in closes 2 hours and 20 minutes before departure, while at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, it closes 3 hours and 20 minutes prior to departure. While passengers can check in up to 6 hours early, pet storage space limitations may require you to keep your pet in its travel dog kennel until 45 minutes before boarding, unless a suitable pet holding area is available. Crucially, pets must remain inside their kennels or shipping containers at all times while in public terminal areas. This emphasizes the importance of having a comfortable and secure travel dog kennel for your pet’s safety and comfort during travel.
Pet immigration regulations are another key consideration. Contact your local transportation office to understand the specific immigration requirements, including any quarantine or detention periods, for your pet at your destination country. The Personal Property Consignment Instruction Guide provides additional details under the “Pets/Quarantine” section for each country. If your itinerary includes a commercial airline flight before or after your AMC Patriot Express flight, it’s essential to check with the commercial airline regarding any additional pet travel documentation or fees.
Financial aspects of pet travel on AMC are also important. Pet travel fees are assessed on a per-kennel, per-mission basis, determined by the combined weight of the pet and its travel dog kennel. For combined weights of 70 lbs or less, the fee is $125. For weights between 71-140 lbs, it’s $250, and for 141-150 lbs, the fee is $375. Pets and kennels exceeding 150 lbs are not accepted. It is always best to confirm current fees with your Travel Management Office or Installation Travel Office as these are subject to change. Notably, as of January 1, 2024, service members are now eligible for reimbursement of pet travel fees for one pet (dog or cat) during a PCS move, up to $2,000 for overseas moves and $550 for moves within the US. When checking in for your flight, ensure you receive a memo receipt for pet travel fees to facilitate your reimbursement claim.
For service animals, specific guidelines apply. Handlers must provide a signed Statement of Assurance to the departing DoD passenger terminal at least 48 hours before departure, confirming they will adhere to service animal responsibilities. Passengers are limited to two service animals (dogs only), which must fit on the handler’s lap or within their foot space. Service animals must be harnessed or leashed at all times within the terminal and on the aircraft and must be kept under control, including preventing them from relieving themselves in inappropriate areas. While service animal handlers may be required to pay pet fees in certain circumstances or for damages caused by non-compliant service animals, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all passengers while accommodating service animals.
In conclusion, traveling with pets on AMC Patriot Express flights requires careful adherence to specific guidelines. From booking well in advance through your TMO/ITO to ensuring you have the correct documentation and a suitable travel dog kennel, thorough preparation is key. Understanding the fee structure and reimbursement policies further aids in a smooth PCS move for you and your furry family members. By paying close attention to these details, you can ensure a safer and less stressful travel experience for your pet during your PCS move.
