Navigating the New DOT Rules for ESA on Flights

On December 2nd, 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) implemented new rules that significantly impact the travel regulations for emotional support animals (ESAs) and service dogs on flights. These changes have raised questions and concerns for passengers who rely on the support of their animals during air travel. This article aims to provide a clear and informative overview of the key changes and how they may affect travelers.

Changes for Emotional Support Animals

Under the previous rules, airlines were required to accommodate emotional support animals if passengers had documentation from licensed mental health professionals. This allowed ESA owners to board flights with their animals free of charge. However, with the new regulations, airlines are no longer obligated to provide accommodations for emotional support animals. Airlines can now treat ESAs as regular pets, subjecting them to fees and restrictions, and potentially even relegating them to cargo.

Traveling with Emotional Support Animals

As of the implementation of the new rules, ESA owners cannot fly for free with their animals. They may need to explore other options, such as registering their animals as Psychiatric Service Dogs to continue traveling for free. Unlike service dogs, Psychiatric Service Dogs do not have specific training requirements.

Impact on Service Dogs

The new DOT rules maintain accommodations for service dogs, including psychiatric service dogs. The definition of a service animal aligns with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and includes dogs that are individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. Airlines are now allowed to limit service animals to just dogs, similar to the ADA guidelines.

Documentation and Forms

Airlines can now request passengers with service dogs to fill out the DOT’s “Service Animal Air Transportation Form” (Transport Form). For flights lasting more than eight hours, airlines may also require the “Service Animal Relief Attestation” (Relief Form). These self-certifying forms necessitate attesting to the service dog’s good behavior and training, as well as providing assurance that the animal will not pose health or sanitation issues during the flight.

Emotional Support Animal vs. Service Dog

It’s essential to understand the difference between an emotional support animal and a service dog. While both provide support to their handlers, service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks related to the handler’s disability. On the other hand, emotional support animals offer comfort and companionship without requiring specialized training.

The new DOT rules for emotional support animals and service dogs on flights mark a significant shift in air travel regulations. Passengers who previously relied on ESAs for support may face challenges with the changes, while service dog owners will need to adhere to the new documentation requirements. Understanding the distinctions between ESAs and service dogs can help travelers navigate the updated guidelines and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Service Animal Final Rule

Service Animal Final Rule FAQs

Service Animal Brochure from DOT