In recent years, traveling is just a privilege for normal people to wander and backpack wherever without thinking of anything that could slow them down; but for people with disabilities, the process can be grueling. There are unfortunate incidents in the past where airlines refused to board people with disabilities on the plane. Here are some air travel tips for People with Disabilities.
At some point, it made me thought of discriminating because of excluding them in the first place and depriving them of their right to travel. Looking on the brighter side, the airlines were not equipped enough to manage them on board with their special needs and assistance. As time progressed, voices have been raised concerning these kinds of incidents and yes, airlines did listen. These talks opened doors of opportunities for disabled people to travel just like any other because, in the first place, they have the right to do so.
Just a reminder also. Every airline and country has a different set of rules of PWDs to ensure their safety. Please do always check with the airline before traveling to avoid any inconvenience.
To ensure that people with disabilities would be spared from discrimination on board, Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA, 14, CFR 382) was established. Under ACAA, all domestic and international flights should provide certain accommodations in a way consistent with providing safe travel to all passengers. Understanding the law will give you an overview of how to navigate the process.
- Know that they will be assisted 100% .From moving through the airport and assist them in going to the toilets if required, as well as, to get on and off the plane to their luggage. Everything will be taken care of.
- Expect for airport escorts to assist you through security check. The airline may provide a qualified employee or allow an unticketed parent or assistant to help a person with a disability through security. Unticketed passengers can request a permit from the airline’s check-in counter that will allow him/ her to pass through security with the person they are assisting.
- No need for making a pre-flight notification since assistance will be automatically come at you as you enter the airport.
- You don’t have to call for an attendant to help you board the plane because they will be directed to you as their priority upon boarding.
- The need for a medical certificate
A medical certificate is generally not required but it’s necessary to have one to be sure. A medical certificate is a written statement from the passenger’s physician saying that the passenger is capable of completing the flight safely without requiring extraordinary medical care.
Simply having a disability is not a reason for an airline to request a medical certificate unless the person is on a stretcher or in an incubator. In case he/she needs medical oxygen during flight or has a medical condition that causes the airline to have reasonable doubt that the person can complete the flight safely without requiring extraordinary medical assistance.
The rules mandated in this regard have undergone proper screening and readings. This does not limit to only one airline. Hence, this is strictly observed whether it is an international flight or domestic because the airline believes that everyone has the right. to travel and therefore shall not be discriminated against. Each one of us has the right to fly. These differences have opened opportunities for people with disabilities not only in travel but also to have a place and recognition in the aviation industry.
