Are airlines allowed to ask what your disability is?


Are airlines allowed to ask what your disability is? Generally, airline personnel may not ask what specific disability the person has, but they can ask questions regarding the person's ability to perform specific air travel-related functions, such as boarding, deplaning or walking through the airport.


What medical conditions prevent you from flying?

Who should not travel by air? Diseases that prevent you from boarding a plane
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • A recent stroke.
  • Infectious diseases, such as chickenpox, influenza or even COVID-19.
  • A recent surgery.
  • A pregnancy of over 28 weeks.
  • Angina (chest pain at rest)


Can you sue an airline for ADA violations?

Because the ACAA doesn't provide a private cause of action, people with disabilities are precluded from filing lawsuits based on alleged violations. However, other civil rights laws may provide grounds for a lawsuit against an air carrier. As a result, an attorney should be contacted for legal advice.


Do airlines charge for wheelchair assistance?

The 1986 Air Carrier Access Act requires airlines to provide free wheelchair service to any traveler who asks for it, without requiring a description or documentation for that need.


Do you tip wheelchair assistance at airport?

Don't forget to tip. Thank a wheelchair attendant with $3 to $5, or more if he or she helps with luggage or spends extra time with you. For an electric cart, tip $2 to $3.


What is the TSA hidden disability card?

Wearing a sunflower lanyard enables passengers to self-identify to staff that they have a hidden disability. It is a voluntary program and passengers are not required to participate. Passengers may choose to disclose their disability on the card, but they do not have to.


What does special assistance mean at airport?

This is the assistance that the airport employee provides to the passenger. Disabled persons with reduced mobility may use this service. Depending on the needs of the passenger, the employee can help him in the check-in process and when boarding the plane.


Do airlines charge for wheelchairs?

Do I have to pay extra to fly with a wheelchair? It's free to check up to two wheelchairs, scooters or mobility devices, including sports wheelchairs and personal medical equipment, in addition to your checked bags. We recommend any mobility device not needed for assistance to your gate be checked in the airport lobby.


Can airlines ask why you need a wheelchair?

For example, a carrier may ask the passenger: “How does the requested wheelchair service assist with your disability?” If the passenger does not have a disability, the carrier may refuse to provide the wheelchair service.


Do seniors automatically get TSA PreCheck?

Do seniors automatically get PreCheck? No. Anyone who wants to receive PreCheck needs to apply. However, TSA does provide people who are 75 years old or older access to an expedited screening process in the regular screening lines: You can keep your light jacket and shoes on.


How much do you tip for wheelchair assistance at the airport?

4. Don't forget to tip. Thank a wheelchair attendant with $3 to $5, or more if he or she helps with luggage or spends extra time with you. For an electric cart, tip $2 to $3.


How do I get a TSA disability notification card?

Download and complete a Notification Card to be provided to the TSA officer who will be conducting your screening. The Notification Card is intended to describe your health condition, disability or medical device to the TSA officer in a discreet manner, helping to ensure your privacy.