Air CarrierAccess Act
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a critical piece of legislation enforced by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This act aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to air travel. It prohibits discrimination against passengers on the basis of their disabilities and mandates that airlines provide necessary accommodations, such as accessible airport facilities and services. Airlines are required to comply with specific guidelines to enhance the travel experience for passengers with disabilities, ensuring that they can navigate the air travel process with dignity and ease. The enforcement of the ACAA signifies a pivotal commitment to inclusivity within the airline industry, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all travelers. Through ongoing monitoring and regulations, the U.S. Department of Transportation continues to advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities, fostering a more equitable travel environment.
Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), service animals are specifically defined as dogs that have been individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, which may include physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental conditions. Importantly, the definition excludes other animal species, as well as emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and those in training to be service animals. Airlines must accept service dogs for transport on flights to, within, and from the United States. While not obligated to do so, airlines have the option to allow the transport of other species at their discretion, but this is not a requirement.
When traveling with service animals, certain documentation may be required by airlines to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Specifically, airlines may ask for a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) form that certifies the animal’s health, behavior, and training. Additionally, if the flight duration exceeds eight hours, airlines may require another DOT form confirming that the service animal can either avoid relieving itself or can do so in a sanitary manner. It is essential to note that airlines cannot demand other forms of documentation from service animal users, except for those mandated by federal agencies, U.S. territories, or foreign jurisdictions. This regulation aims to facilitate safe and effective travel for individuals reliant on service animals while balancing the needs of all passengers.
Airlines may deny transport to a service dog under several specific circumstances. If the service dog exceeds size or weight limitations that prevent it from being safely accommodated in the cabin, the airline can refuse transport. Additionally, if the dog poses a direct threat to the health or safety of passengers or crew, or if it causes significant disruption within the cabin or at airport gate areas, denial of transport may occur. Health requirements are also a factor; for instance, if the service dog is prohibited from entering a U.S. territory or a foreign country, the airline has grounds for refusal. Furthermore, airlines may require the completion of DOT service animal forms, and if a service animal user fails to provide these forms, the airline reserves the right to deny transport to the service dog.
This information was taken from https://www.transportation.gov/resources/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals on April 11, 2025.