Delta adds pit bulls to list of banned service and support animals
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TAMPA (FOX 13) - Delta announced a policy update when it comes to allowing service and support animals on a flight.
The airline is limiting one emotional support animal per customer, and banning “pit bull type dogs” from traveling with customers as service or emotional support animals. Delta cited “safety and security” of its employees and customers as their main motivations behind the decision, and after recent incidents where employees were bitten, according to a press release.
Delta previously changed its animal support policy earlier this year citing customer abuse and after a passenger’s dog died in a United Airline overhead compartment.
The new regulation requires those traveling with a service or support animal to provide special documentation. Travelers must provide a current signed veterinary health form or immunization record for the animal 48 hours in advance, as well as a signed letter by a doctor or mental health professional. There must also be proof the animal can behave while in the cabin.
"The safety and security of Delta people and our customers is always our top priority," said Gil West, Chief Operating Officer in a statement. "We will always review and enhance our policies and procedures to ensure that Delta remains a leader in safety."
The airline said it carries around 700 service and support animals daily. It has also seen an “84 percent increase in reported animal incidents since 2016, including urination/defecation, biting and even a widely reported attack by a 70-pound dog,” which is uncommon behavior for properly trained working animals.
The changes go into effect on July 10.