DOT CONTINUES WORK TO IMPROVE SERVICE FOR PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES
October 16, 2021
On September 2, 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (“DOT”) publicly released materials and presentation slides ahead of the second public meeting of the Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee, which was held on September 2, 8 and 9, 2021. The meeting, which was a continuation of talks held on March 10-11, 2020, focused on many of the most pressing topics and issues associated with air travel as it relates to passengers with disabilities. DOT has been continuing its efforts to improve travel and services for passengers with disabilities as under the Air Carrier Access Act and its implementing regulation, 14 C.F.R. Part 382, disabled passengers are entitled to certain protections and accommodations, and discrimination based on disability is strictly prohibited. To ensure continued compliance with this rule, DOT’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection and the Air Carrier Access Act Advisory Committee has continued to meet to discuss current regulations, and consider new regulations and practices to implement. The various issues presented and discussed at these DOT meetings have included:
-
DOT regulations related to bulkhead seating for passengers with disabilities;
-
DOT regulations related to dignity of assistance, so that personnel are more aware, respectful and understand how to handle situations involving passengers with disabilities;
-
A new Bill of Rights for passengers with disabilities;
-
Creating universal accessibility within the air travel industry by 2031;
-
Recommendations on timeliness of assistance, including what the definition of “prompt” means or should mean;
-
Discussions on safety considerations that should be contemplated while assisting disabled passengers; and
-
The use of SSR codes in ticketing practices.
This is all being done as DOT works to make air travel more accessible and easier for disabled passengers, which has long been a goal of the Department.
If you have any questions, please contact Evelyn Sahr (esahr@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6622); Drew Derco (dderco@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6665), or Andy Orr (aorr@eckertsemans.com or 202-659-6625).
Share This Post
Authors
