by Nikki Stewart
Air Carrier Access Act – Part 4
To round out the four part series on service animal laws we are concluding our “Know Your Rights With Your Service Animal” series by taking a look at what your rights are upon airplanes with the Air Carrier Access Act.
Where does the ADA allow my animal access?
Access for service animals permitted:
- All U.S. air carriers
- Foreign air carrier flights that originate or end in the U.S.
What is a Service Animal?
Rights extend to emotional support animals. Definition includes miniature horses, pigs, monkeys. Contact your specific airline directly for documentation requirements to minimize complications prior to your departure as procedures may vary.
Can I be charged fees for allowing access to my service or support animal?
No additional fees, unless the animal causes actual damage
Can my animal be denied because of breed?
Not mentioned in the Air Carrier Access Act
Can my animal be denied based on fears or allergies of others?
No
What is a valid denial of my animal?
- Animal’s size and weight
- State and foreign country restrictions
- Whether or not the animal would pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others
- Cause a fundamental alteration in the cabin service
What happens if someone misrepresents an animal as a service animal?
No Provisions
Who is responsible for enforcement?
Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings
Aviation Consumer Protection Division
1200 New Jersey Ave, SE
Washington, DC 20590
202-366-2220 | transportation.gov/airconsumer