ESA Air Travel and Public Access 2

Question 1

As of January 2021, how did the DOT's revised rule change ESA air travel?

Accepted Answer

Airlines may treat ESAs as pets and charge pet fees

Answer

The DOT's January 2021 rule allows airlines to treat ESAs as regular pets, meaning carriers can charge pet fees and apply size/breed restrictions.

Question 2

Which federal law previously required airlines to accommodate ESAs in-cabin at no charge before the 2021 rule change?

Accepted Answer

Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)

Answer

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) was the law under which DOT issued guidance requiring airlines to accommodate ESAs, before the 2021 regulatory revision.

Question 3

If an airline decides to accept an ESA after the 2021 rule change, what may the airline lawfully require?

Accepted Answer

A DOT-approved form attesting to the animal's health, behavior, and training

Answer

Airlines that still accept ESAs may require passengers to complete a DOT-approved form covering the animal's health, behavior, and the passenger's need.

Question 4

Under current rules, which animal category retains guaranteed cabin access on all U.S. airlines regardless of the 2021 DOT change?

Accepted Answer

Trained psychiatric service dogs

Answer

Trained psychiatric service dogs that perform a specific task related to a disability retain guaranteed cabin access under the revised ACAA rules.

Question 5

A passenger with an ESA books a flight on an airline that no longer accepts ESAs. What is the airline permitted to do?

Accepted Answer

The airline can refuse the ESA or require it travel as cargo/checked baggage per its pet policy

Answer

Since 2021, airlines are not obligated to accept ESAs in-cabin and may apply their standard pet policies, which may include cargo transport or denial.

(ESA) Certified Emotional Support Animal Practice Test

(ESA) Certified Emotional Support Animal Practice Test

ESA Air Travel and Public Access 2