The Air Carrier Access Act is a federal law passed in 1986 that prohibits discrimination by airlines against individuals with disabilities and requires air carriers to accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities. Here are some key details about the law:
- Official Name: Air Carrier Access Act of 1986
- Purpose: To prohibit discrimination against passengers with disabilities in air travel and provide protections for their civil rights.
- Key Provisions:
- Airlines may not refuse to provide transportation to people with disabilities solely based on their disability.
- Airlines must make aircraft, services, and facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities.
- Airlines must provide assistance with boarding, deplaning, and making connections.
- Airlines may not require advanced notice from passengers with disabilities.
- Reasonable accommodations must be provided, such as assistance with baggage and access to grab bars.
- Enforced By: The Department of Transportation
- Expanded By: The Air Carrier Access Amendments Act in 2000 with additional protections.
- Impact: The ACAA has worked to improve accessibility and reduce discrimination in air travel for millions of passengers with disabilities in the U.S.
In summary, this 1986 federal law was a landmark in promoting equal access and non-discrimination in air travel for individuals with disabilities.
