Air Carrier Access Act Technical Assistance Manual (2005)

Employee Training

Management of carriers should be aware that proper training of carrier personnel is critical to compliance with the ACAA and part 382.

Carriers operating aircraft with more than 19 passenger seats must provide training for all personnel who deal with the traveling public, as appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of each employee. [Sec. 382.61(a)]

Carriers must provide training to proficiency in the requirements of the ACAA and its implementing regulations and other DOT and FAA regulations affecting the provision of air transportation to passengers with a disability, including the proper and safe operation of any equipment used to accommodate passengers with a disability. [Sec. 382.61(a)(1)(i) and (ii)]

Carriers must also train employees who deal with the traveling public regarding awareness and appropriate responses to individuals with a disability, including individuals with physical, sensory, mental, and emotional disabilities, including how to distinguish among the differing abilities of individuals with a disability. [Sec. 382.61(a)(2)]

Carriers must consult with organizations representing persons with disabilities in developing their training programs and policies concerning which carrier personnel receive training. [Sec. 382.61(a)(3)]

Carriers must provide or require their contractors to provide training to contractors’ employees who deal with the traveling public regarding providing air transportation to passengers with a disability.