After months of negotiations, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has learned that American Airlines is reversing its ban on Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, and any mixed breeds containing one or more of those breeds. Effective May 17th, 2003, all dog breeds will once again be accepted for shipment, and new safe container requirements will be imposed uniformly for all animals traveling as cargo or excess baggage.
“The AKC and dog fanciers across the country applaud American's recent decision to lift its breed ban policy on dogs in flight,” said Noreen Baxter, Vice President of Education and Legislation for the AKC. “There is little doubt that the intense efforts of purebred dog owners – thousands of whom fly to dog shows every weekend – and the 150 AKC national breed clubs, helped convince American to resolve the issue. American's new requirements will improve travel conditions for countless responsible dog owners and their well-mannered dogs.”
American first implemented its breed ban in August 2002, following an incident involving a “pit bull” puppy that escaped its crate and damaged the cargo hold of a plane. The AKC immediately contacted American and offered to help establish kennel regulations for safe shipment of all breeds of dogs and launched a nationwide letter-writing campaign to the airline, calling on fanciers to contact American Airlines and express their opposition.
Acceptable kennels used to ship dogs will require releasable cable ties attached to each of the four corners of the kennel door. American Airlines will provide the releasable cable ties to the customer at no cost and the ties must be attached to the kennel by the shipper. Acceptable kennels must meet the requirements of the International Air Transport Association Live Animal Regulations and may be purchased from American Airlines.
After months of negotiations, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has learned that
American Airlines is…