Air travel with a service animal can bring special needs and challenges. MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is here to support travelers with service animals every step of the way. Clear rules from the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) help make flying easier. We follow these rules to provide a better and more accessible air travel experience for people flying with trained service animals, including psychiatric service dogs.
What Is a Service Animal?
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) and its most recent guidance on service animal air transportation, a service animal is defined as a dog — regardless of breed or type — that is trained to do certain tasks or work for a person with a disability. This includes people with physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disabilities. Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals and service animals in training are not considered service animals under the ACAA.
Service Animal Policy Updates
Recent updates to the Air Carrier Access Act include the following:
- A traveler may be accompanied by up to two service animals.
- For longer flights, passengers may be required to confirm that the animal can either avoid relieving itself or can do so in a sanitary way.
- Service animals must remain within the passenger’s foot space and cannot occupy a seat or block aisles.
- Service animals must be leashed, harnessed or tethered at all times while at the airport.
- If a service animal shows aggressive behavior or poses a direct threat or high risk to the safety of others, the airline may deny boarding.
- Airlines cannot require in-person check-in if online check-in is available.
TSA Security Screening for Service Animals
Service animals must go through security screening for pet travel just like their handlers. When you arrive at a TSA checkpoint on the day of travel, always inform the officer that you are traveling with a service animal. Both standard lanes and TSA PreCheck® lanes are available.
You and your service dog can walk through the metal detector together or separately, with the dog on a leash. If either of you sets off the alarm, a pat-down screening may be required. TSA will never separate you from your animal.
Any gear your dog is wearing — such as collars, harnesses, vests or leashes — may be subject to screening. Choosing accessories made with minimal metal can help avoid unnecessary alarms. Items that are necessary for maintaining control of your animal do not have to be removed.
If you’re traveling with medications, vaccinations or medical supplies for your service dog, they must go through X-ray screening or visual inspection. Inform the TSA officer that these items are for your animal upon inspection.
Animal Relief Areas at BLV
To ensure the comfort and hygiene of both service dogs and their handlers, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport offers designated animal relief areas. There is a relief area located post-security on the second floor near Gates 1 and 2. An additional pet relief area is located outside near baggage claim. Please note: re-entry screening is required if you use the outdoor area after passing through security.
In-Flight and Seating Guidelines
Service dogs must remain on the floor in the handler’s foot space and may not sit on seats, tray tables or in emergency exit rows. These rules help ensure the safety of others and comfort for all passengers.
BLV’s Commitment to Accessibility
MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is proud to support passengers traveling with service dogs as service animals. We encourage travelers to review the official .GOV and US DOT websites for the most up-to-date information policies, including required forms like the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form and any other required attestation forms or documentation.
We are dedicated to providing a smooth and respectful travel experience for every passenger. Whether you are traveling with a trained service dog or psychiatric service animal, BLV is here to help make your journey as accessible and stress-free as possible.
Learn more about assistance for passengers with special needs by visiting Allegiant’s website.
