Over 40 million Americans have disabilities. The Air Carrier Access
Act and the DOT rule that implements it set out procedures designed
to ensure that these individuals have the same opportunity as anyone
else to enjoy a pleasant flight. Here are some of the major provisions
of the rule.
* A person may not be refused transportation on the basis of
disability or be required to have an attendant or produce a medical
certificate, except in certain limited circumstances specified
in the rule.
* Airlines must provide enplaning, deplaning and connecting assistance,
including both personnel and equipment. (Some small commuter aircraft
may not be accessible to passengers with severe mobility impairments.
When making plans to fly to small cities, such passengers should
check on the aircraft type and its accessibility.)
* Airport terminals and airline reservations centers must have
TDD telephone devices for persons with hearing or speech impairments.
* Passengers with vision or hearing impairments must have timely
access to the same information given to other passengers at the
airport or on the plane concerning gate assignments, delayed flights,
safety, etc.
* New widebody aircraft must have a wheelchair- accessible lavatory
and an on-board wheelchair. Airlines must put an on-board wheelchair
on most other flights upon a passenger's request (48 hours notice
required).
* Air carriers must accept wheelchairs as checked baggage, and
cannot require passengers to sign liability waivers for them (except
for pre-existing damage).
* Most new airplanes must have movable armrests on half the aisle
seats, and on-board stowage for one folding passenger wheelchair.
* Carriers must allow service animals to accompany passengers
in the cabin, as long as they don't block the aisle or other emergency
evacuation route.
* FAA safety rules establish standards for passengers allowed
to sit in emergency exit rows; such persons must be able to perform
certain evacuation-related functions.
* FAA rules also prohibit passengers from bringing their own
oxygen. Most airlines will provide aircraft-approved oxygen for
a fee, but aren't required to.
* Airlines may not charge for services that are required by this
rule.
* Airlines must make available a specially-trained Complaints
Resolution Official if a dispute arises. There must be a copy
of the DOT rule at every airport.
It's wise to call the airline again before your trip to reconfirm
any assistance that you have requested. For additional details,
see "Other Sources of Information" at the end of this
pamphlet for information on ordering the booklet New Horizons for
the Air Traveler with a Disability.
