Southwest to allow pets in cabin for a fee

DALLAS, May 29 (UPI) -- Southwest Airlines passengers will soon be able to travel with their pets at a cost of $75 on the U.S. carrier.

The airline plans to begin selling the pet tickets Monday for travel on or after June 17, The Chicago Tribune reported. Other fees and increases kick in on the same dates, including a $25 charge for unaccompanied children between the ages of 5 and 11.

Southwest said it is also creating areas in its terminals where pets can do their business. Those areas will be outside security check-in.

The airline said no more than five pets will be allowed on any flight. They must be small enough to travel in carriers fitting under airline seats.

Southwest, unlike most other carriers, allows passengers to check two bags for free. But the airline is also doubling its fee for a third piece of checked luggage and for bags that weigh more than 50 pounds to $50.