Air Carrier Access Act
Regulations Updated
In May, the U.S. Department of
Transportation (USDOT) issued updated regulations for The Air Carrier Access
Act (ACAA). This Act now applies
to both U.S.
and foreign carriers. There are new requirements for airport and aircraft
accessibility and changes in airport services including reservations,
facilities, in-flight and aircraft acquisitions. There is a requirement for
48-hour notification for passengers who use respiratory assistive devices. They
clarify how airlines must provide effective communication for passengers who
are deaf or hard-of hearing and now require 48-hour notification that a
customer is bringing an emotional support animal or psychiatric service animal
on board the aircraft. Also, if kiosks are not accessible, equivalent service
must be provided, and more. To learn more about the old rules and the
changes, visit ADA
publication at http://www.southwestada.org/html/publications/ebulletins/legal/2009/may2009.html
To
file complaints under this Air Carrier Access Act, go to US DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection
Division at http://www.airconsumer.ost.dot.gov
and select “Air Travel Problems and Complaints,” or write a detailed letter to
USDOT, Aviation Consumer Protection Division (C-75), 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Washington DC 20590 .
Item provided by AAPD Government Affairs. For inquiries
please contact JSimpson@aapd.com
