PHILADELPHIA - US Airways acted reasonably when it allowed a pig to fly first class from Philadelphia to Seattle, the Federal Aviation Administration found.
Maria Tirotta Andrews brought Charlotte, her 300-pound Vietnamese potbellied pig, on the flight Oct. 17, telling the airline it was a “therapeutic companion pet.” Andrews said her heart condition was so severe she needed the pig to relieve stress.
“US Airways and its personnel acted in a reasonable and thoughtful manner, based on a legitimate request to transport a qualified individual with a disability and her service animal,” said FAA spokesman Jim Peters.
Under federal rules, airlines must permit a service animal to accompany passengers to their seats.