H.R. 4940: Accommodating Individuals Requesting Familial Assistance in Riding Efficiently Act

This bill, known as the Accommodating Individuals Requesting Familial Assistance in Riding Efficiently Act (or AIRFARE Act), aims to facilitate the travel experience for caregivers and passengers who require special assistance, including minors and individuals with mobility challenges. Here are the key components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary goal of the bill is to establish a system that allows caregivers, parents, and guardians to accompany minors and individuals needing assistance through the process of boarding flights at domestic airports. This is meant to improve the experience for those who may struggle with the airport processes due to age or health-related issues.

Definitions

• Caregivers: Individuals responsible for the care of minors or passengers in need of assistance.
• Minors: Individuals under the age of 18.
• Passengers Needing Assistance: Individuals requiring special assistance due to health or mobility issues, such as those who use wheelchairs.

Implementation Timeline

Within 180 days after the bill is enacted, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is required to establish the aforementioned system. This system will expedite gate passes and flight access procedures specifically for caregivers and individuals who need assistance.

Gate Passes for Caregivers

According to the bill:

• Air carriers are allowed to provide up to two gate passes to caregivers, parents, and guardians accompanying a minor or a passenger needing assistance to a departing flight.
• If applicable, the caregivers, parents, and guardians can utilize their existing TSA Pre-Check privileges when applying for these gate passes. Their status will be noted on the gate passes similar to how it is done for tickets issued to them.

Special Considerations for Wheelchair Users

For passengers who need assistance and use a wheelchair, a gate pass for their caregiver can only be issued if that caregiver is the individual pushing the wheelchair. This ensures that the person who is most directly responsible for aiding the passenger is granted access to accompany them through the airport procedures.

Overall Impact

The bill seeks to streamline the travel process for those with special care needs, ensuring that they can have their caregivers or guardians with them through the airport experience, thereby minimizing stress and complications during travel.

Relevant Companies

• AAL - American Airlines Group Inc.: As a major airline, American Airlines may need to adapt their boarding and gate pass procedures to comply with the new regulations set forth by this bill.
• DAL - Delta Air Lines Inc.: Similar to American Airlines, Delta may be affected by the requirements for expedited gate passes and could adjust their operations accordingly.
• UAL - United Airlines Holdings Inc.: United Airlines will likely have to implement the new procedures for caregivers accompanying passengers needing assistance, impacting their internal processes.