Delta relaxes support animal rules for long flights but still bans pit bulls

Delta Air Lines is revoking a year-old ban on bringing emotional support animals on flights longer than 8 hours. However, it will continue to ban pit bull dogs as on-board service or support animals — even though new federal guidelines forbid service animal limitations based on types of breeds. Regarding pit bulls, the airline said it was concerned for the safety of passengers, crew and other service animals. The airline’ said 40 cases of “aggressive animal behavior” occurred on its flights in 2018 (though it did not say how many were related to pit bulls). Passengers who require service animals — defined as those trained to work or perform tasks for a disabled person, such as a guide dog — are allowed to bring dogs, cats and miniature horses for free on US commercial flights. Rules may apply to the animal’s size and weight. <br/>