What airlines, hotels, and carriers currently require — and where your letter still protects you.
Travel is where ESA rules surprise people most. For Indiana residents, here’s exactly what changed — and what still works in your favor.
Indianapolis International, repeatedly ranked among America’s best airports, is the state’s main hub.
Since the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2021 rule change, airlines may treat emotional support animals as pets: expect a pet fee, an under-seat carrier for small animals, and cargo restrictions for larger ones. Policies differ by airline, so check yours before booking out of Indiana.
A psychiatric service dog still flies in the cabin free of charge. Carriers can require the DOT Service Animal Transportation Form — an attestation of training and behavior, usually due 48 hours before departure — and the dog must stay within your foot space, under control.
Trains, buses, and hotels follow the ADA, which covers service animals rather than ESAs — so pet rules can apply. Your ESA letter still matters where you’ll live: short-term rentals, sublets, and leases at your Indiana destination remain covered by the Fair Housing Act.
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Yes, but as a pet: expect a fee and an under-seat carrier requirement. The DOT removed the airline obligation to treat ESAs as service animals in 2021.
A task-trained psychiatric service dog flies in the cabin at no charge. Most carriers ask for the U.S. DOT Service Animal Transportation Form, usually 48 hours ahead.
It remains essential for housing at your destination — short-term rentals and leases — and some carriers and hosts voluntarily accommodate documented ESAs, but it doesn’t create a legal right to fly.
Book under your airline’s pet policy: reserve the pet spot early (cabins cap the number), confirm carrier dimensions, and budget for the pet fee each way.
Only in limited cases — missing DOT forms, a dog that’s out of control or too large for your foot space, or specific long-haul requirements.
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