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Airline Pet Tracker

Cabin vs cargo rules for the airlines most US/Canada pet owners use to reach Panama. Pick an airline to see size limits, cargo programs, timing notes, and who to call.

Confirm before you book. Airlines change pet policies, fees, and temperature embargoes. Use this as a starting map, then verify with the airline on your exact flight — especially fees and embargo dates.
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Copa Airlines
Cargo program: Copa Cargo
International cabin
Allowed (limits apply)
Pet + carrier ≤ 22 lbs · carrier max 45 × 35 × 20 cm · dog / cat
Cargo path
Copa Cargo
Book live-animal cargo separately from your passenger ticket when required.
⚠️ Copa will not confirm your pet reservation until 15 days before departure. Call early to register your intent and hold space — final confirmation comes closer to the date.
Who to call
✈️ In-Cabin (under seat)
  • Dogs and cats only
  • Pet + carrier weight ≤ 10 kg (22 lbs)
  • Carrier max: 45 cm × 35 cm × 20 cm (17.7″ × 13.7″ × 7.8″)
  • Soft-sided or rigid carrier — must fit under seat
  • One pet per ticketed passenger
  • Must remain in carrier throughout flight
  • Copa fee applies — confirm amount on call
📦 Cargo (checked / Swissport)
  • Required for pets over cabin weight limit
  • IATA-compliant rigid crate required
  • Crate must allow pet to stand, turn, and lie down
  • Attach food/water dishes inside door
  • Check in at Swissport cargo terminal separately
  • You receive a paper Air Waybill (AWB) — photograph it
  • Panama customs asks for the AWB number on arrival
⏰ Timing
  • Call Copa as early as possible to register your intent
  • Copa will not confirm pet reservation until 15 days before departure
  • Cabin spots: extremely limited — call immediately after booking
  • Cargo: arrange at least 2–4 weeks before departure
  • Arrive at airport 3 hours early with pets
  • Cargo check-in (Swissport): typically 2–3 hours before departure
  • Keep paperwork accessible from check-in through customs
📅 Free personalized timeline
Map USDA/CFIA, airline, and Panama deadlines from your departure date.
⭐ Command Center — $97
Full app: airline setup, document tracker, smart timeline, day-of dossier.
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Content is pulled from the Pets to Panama airline configuration for Copa, American, and United. Policies and fees change — always confirm with the airline for your flight and date before you rely on this page.