I don’t know about you, but I find the drive to Portland from Seattle endless, even though it really takes only about three hours. I much prefer the train, but Amtrak doesn’t allow dogs on board (see Dog Jaunt’s earlier post about Amtrak). A happy alternative is SeaPort Airlines, which operates Pilatus PC-12 turbine aircraft between Seattle (Boeing Field), Portland, Astoria, Pendleton and Newport, OR.

SeaPort’s pet policy conveys the impression that dogs are not allowed in the cabin:

SeaPort Airlines accepts domestic pets so long as they are in an approved carrier. The maximum weight of any animal must not exceed 40 lbs. The fee for the transportation of any animal is $35 and is in addition to any other applicable excess baggage fee. Animals not accompanied by a passenger will be treated as cargo, and cargo rates will apply. At no time will animals be treated as carry-on baggage.

In a phone conversation, however, I learned that dogs under 40 lbs., in a carrier, are welcome in the cabin. There is no underseat space to stow a dog, so she will be strapped in to a seat next to you. There is a $35 fee.

A quick flight, having to arrive only 15 minutes before your scheduled departure, easy parking — it all sounds good to me. SeaPort’s website currently provides basic information about the airline; for schedules or reservations call 1-888-573-2767.