Can airlines require passengers with disabilities to travel with an attendant?

The correct answer asserts that airlines cannot require passengers with disabilities to travel with an attendant unless there are specific circumstances where the passenger needs assistance that the airline is unable to provide. This is grounded in the principles established by the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which aims to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in air travel.

Under the ACAA, airlines are required to accommodate passengers with disabilities, but they cannot impose unnecessary conditions. The law recognizes that many passengers with disabilities are capable of traveling independently and do not need an attendant for their journey. The only time an airline could mandate an attendant is if the passenger requires assistance with activities such as feeding, personal hygiene, or other needs that the airline is not equipped to assist with during the flight.

This approach balances the need for safety and assistance with respect for the autonomy of individuals with disabilities, recognizing their rights to travel freely without undue restrictions. Hence, the option highlighting the specific conditions under which an attendant might be required aligns with the legal framework promoting accessibility in air travel.