What must airlines do to assist passengers who need help reaching a connecting flight?

Airlines are required under the Air Carrier Access Act to provide necessary assistance to passengers with disabilities, ensuring they can reach their connecting flights. This obligation includes offering transportation between terminals if a connection involves traveling to a different terminal, as well as any other required assistance, such as helping with boarding or deplaning.

This comprehensive assistance is crucial for passengers who may face challenges navigating through an airport due to mobility issues, visual impairments, or other disabilities. By providing the necessary support without additional fees, airlines help ensure equitable access to air travel, aligning with the regulations established under the Air Carrier Access Act.

Other options, such as charging additional fees for assistance, are contrary to the intent of the Act, which aims to eliminate barriers to travel for individuals with disabilities. Informing other airlines of a passenger’s needs or directing them to customer service for assistance may not guarantee that the necessary support will be available or effective in reaching the next flight. Therefore, the clear requirement for airlines is to provide direct assistance, which makes the first choice the most appropriate.