Are airlines required to make pre-flight announcements accessible under the ACAA?

Airlines are required under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) to ensure that pre-flight announcements are accessible to all passengers, including those with hearing impairments. This requirement is rooted in the commitment to non-discrimination and providing equal access to air travel for individuals with disabilities. The ACAA mandates that airlines must take appropriate steps to accommodate passengers with hearing impairments by making vital information available to them in a format that they can understand.

Accessibility in this context can involve various methods, such as providing written texts of announcements or employing visual signage to communicate important safety information and other announcements clearly. This commitment is essential for providing a safe and equitable travel experience for all passengers, regardless of their disabilities. Ensuring that people with hearing impairments can access pre-flight announcements aligns with the broader intent of the ACAA to facilitate travel for individuals with varying needs.