Can I carry food packed with dry ice on an American Airlines flight?

FAA guidance also applies a 2.5 kg limit per package and requires airline approval. Contact American before travel to confirm that the itinerary and package are accepted; telling a ticket or gate agent, as American instructs for this carry-on allowance, is not itself proof of approval.

What this answer depends on

  • Use a vented hard-plastic container or heavy-gauge Styrofoam packaging that can release carbon dioxide. Do not seal dry ice in an airtight container.
  • If the package is checked, follow the FAA marking instructions: identify it as “Dry ice” or “Carbon dioxide, solid” and show the net weight or that it is within the applicable limit. Confirm American's acceptance before checking it.

Important exceptions

  • American's 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) statement is specifically for dry ice in carry-on baggage; FAA's per-package limit and approval requirement are separate requirements.

Important unknowns

  • Acceptance for the exact itinerary and package must be confirmed with American before travel.

What to do next

  1. Contact American before travel for approval and confirmation of package acceptance; if checking the package, confirm acceptance and apply FAA marking instructions.

Sources and last checked