If a passenger encounters discrimination while traveling, what should they do?

When a passenger encounters discrimination while traveling, the most effective course of action is to report the incident to the airline and file a complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT). This response is crucial because documenting the incident formally allows the airline to investigate and address the issue appropriately. Airlines are obligated to comply with the Air Carrier Access Act, which prohibits discrimination based on disability, and they must take reports seriously to improve their policies and practices.

Filing a complaint with the DOT is essential as it helps the government agency monitor discrimination cases in air travel. This encourages accountability and can lead to changes that benefit all passengers. By taking these steps, passengers contribute to a larger effort to uphold their rights and promote equitable treatment in the airline industry.

Ignoring the incident does not lead to any resolution and allows discrimination to persist unchallenged. Publicly posting about the incident online may raise awareness, but it does not lead to formal accountability or resolution through established channels. Waiting until reaching the destination to address the issue can delay any potential corrective actions, making it less effective in ensuring that such behaviors are addressed promptly.