So Can I Take a Live Fish On a Plane?
There is no doubt that owning a pet has tremendous benefits, fish, birds, hamsters and dogs. There is just something peaceful about them, but what about traveling with them?
That being said, you might be wondering if you can bring live fish on your next flight in the cabin or if you have to transport it as checked baggage.
According to the TSA you are allowed to travel with your live fish only in the cabin and it must be transported in clean water and a clear transparent carrier, also they will be inspected by the TSA officer, you will also need to make sure the airline you’re using will allow your fish to fly with you.
This article will explain bringing fish on airplanes in the cabin and as checked luggage. It will discuss the regulations set by the TSA , customs and airlines and how to safely transport your live fish without worrying that it will be stressed, however it is not recommended to travel with your fish for long distances.
TIP:There’s a reason why so people love to have aquariums in their homes, many doctors and offices all over the world have fish tanks in them. Fish aquarium are just as healthy as owning a dog or a family cat.
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TSA Rules On Transporting Live Fish
On their website, the Transpiration Security Administration stated that you are allowed to take your fish through the security checkpoint without any issue, however, you will be required to transport your fish inside a spill proof and clear transparent container so the STA officer can inspect your container easily.
When transporting your live fish the TSA liquid rule 3-1-1 does not apply, so you can bring more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml of water without any issue.
Here is what the TSA has to say about traveling with live fish on its website.
Shannon asked the TSA on twitter if she can travel with her fish,
And the TSA replied that The TSA agents won’t stop you from taking Live Fish through the security checkpoint but they should be transported in a clear container.
The TSA Added it is preferable that you speak to your airline ahead of time and make sure if they have any restrictions.
Taking Fish In The Cabin
YES you can take live fish in cabin baggage on most airlines without any issues, However there are no restrictions on taking live fish in the cabin,However as the TSA stated above you will have to carry your fish in a transparent container.
So make sure to prepare everything ahead of time and use a transparent fish travel carrier carrier so you don’t need to worry about having your fish questioned at the airport.
It is recommended also to change water before heading to the airport, that will help your fish travel in a clean and comfortable carrier.
Moreover, be sure to fill up your carrier so it provides the necessary oxygen during the fight, use lots of good aquarium water, and use some pure oxygen if needed.
If you check with the airlines, usually most airlines will allow you to travel with more than 4 small fish in carry-on luggage.
So make sure to to prepare everything ahead of time and use transparent fish travel carrier so don’t need to worry about having your fish questioned at the airport.
It is recommended also to change water before heading to the airport, that will help your fish travel in a clean and comfortable carrier.
Moreover, be sure to fill it up your carrier so it it provides the necessary oxygen during the fight, use lots of good aquarium water, and use some pure oxygen if needed.
If you check with the airlines, usually most airlines will allow you travel with more than 4 small fish in carry in luggage.
Take Live Fish In Checked Baggage
Live fish are not allowed in checked baggage on most airlines but they allow them as cargo, if you are going to transport your fish as cargo it is best to contact the airline and ask them about more details and the requirements.
Can You Travel With a Betta Fish On a Plane?
Yes you can travel with your Betta fish on a plane, without any problem, however it is better to use a large container or carrier .
The rules for traveling with a Betta fish on a plane is the same as traveling with any live fish; you can take them only in carry-on baggage if your airline allows them,and before transporting your Betta fish check with your airline if they have any further restrictions.
Travel With Fish In Aquarium
You have to transport your aquarium empty without your fish because it might break during transportation as i have mentioned above; in long distances the best way to transport your fish on a plane is in a transparent carrier.
To begin with, you would need to choose a good container for your fish, which is actually quite easy because there are many different types available in fish stores or on Amazon.
That said, when you get to your destination, you can then put your fish in your aquarium, and pour the water.
Travel With Fish In International Flights
Taking fish on international flights differs from one country to another, some countries may allow bringing fish to their countries while others will not permit them.
Ying asked Delta if he can bring 2 Mexican salamanders Axolotls with him as carry-on fly from Edinburgh to JFK.
Delta answered that reptiles, amphibians and fish are accepted only as cargo on Delta not in carry on or checked baggage.
The best way is to contact your airline and ask them if they have any additional requirements on traveling with fish in the cabin or as cargo.
Also do a small research and learn more about the prohibited items in the country of your destination . Certain live fish or pets have rules and regulations in different countries.
Summary
As stated above the TSA do not have any restrictions on traveling with fish i carry-o,However it is not advised to travel with fish for long distances.
For short distances you can use a container that is sturdy and large enough to make sure that your pet is comfortable and can breathe properly which it’s not easy.
People also ask:
- Can you bring a fishing pole on a plane?
- Can I Bring Live Lobster On a Plane?
- Can I take birds on a plane?
- Can you bring a turtle on a plane?
- Can I Take My Parrot On A Plane?
Happy travels
