FAA

For 2026, the FAA remains focused on enhancing the safety and efficiency of the aviation system. Key updates and guidelines include:

• Advances in Digital and Cyber Safety: The FAA has intensified efforts to strengthen cybersecurity in flight operations. In 2026, the implementation of new guidelines for the protection of communication, navigation, and control systems is expected, with a focus on resilience against cyberattacks. This includes more rigorous requirements for data management and critical software.
• Integration of Drones (UAS) into Airspace: The continued expansion of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), such as drones, for various applications (delivery, surveillance, entertainment) will lead to new regulations to ensure safety and coexistence with manned air traffic. The FAA is working on more robust Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) systems and rules for long-distance and over-people operations.
• Aviation Sustainability: The agency will continue to promote the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and research into new aircraft propulsion technologies. While not direct passenger safety regulations, these initiatives aim for a more sustainable future for aviation, with potential impacts on future operations.
• Improving Passenger Experience through Technology: The FAA encourages the adoption of technologies that enhance the passenger experience, from check-in to arrival. This may include guidelines on the use of biometrics and the integration of systems for more efficient airport flow, always with a focus on security and privacy.

The FAA plays a crucial role in airfare transparency and baggage rules to protect consumers. Key guidelines include:

• Fare Transparency: Airlines are required to clearly and prominently disclose all applicable fees, including those for carry-on and checked baggage, seat selection, and other optional services, before the passenger completes a ticket purchase. This applies to both airline websites and online travel agencies.
• Checked and Carry-on Baggage: There is no federally mandated baggage allowance established by the FAA that applies to all airlines. Each airline sets its own baggage policies, including weights, dimensions, and fees. However, the FAA requires that these policies be clearly communicated to passengers.
• Items Considered Baggage: The FAA defines what is considered baggage for security purposes (e.g., restrictions on liquids and hazardous materials). For commercial purposes (fees), the policy is determined by the airline.
• Contact Information and Complaints: Airlines must provide easily accessible information on how to contact customer service and how to file complaints regarding baggage or fares.

For detailed information on passenger rights regarding baggage and fares, it is recommended to consult the specific pages on the FAA website and the policies of each individual airline.

Rules for the transportation of pets are a combination of FAA regulations (focused on cabin safety and aircraft operation) and regulations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for health requirements.

• Cabin Safety: The FAA allows airlines to set their own policies for pet transportation. Generally, small pets may be transported in the cabin, provided they remain in a carrier approved by the airline, which must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.
• Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals: Rules for service animals have evolved. As of 2021, the FAA considers only dogs trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability as service animals. Emotional support animals are no longer automatically permitted in the cabin, and airlines may treat them as common pets. However, some airlines may have more flexible policies.
• Health and Documentation Requirements: Passengers are responsible for ensuring that the animal meets all health requirements, including health certificates, vaccinations, and other documentation required by veterinary authorities at the destination. Airlines may request copies of these documents.
• Breed and Size Restrictions: Some airlines may impose breed restrictions (due to respiratory conditions or behavior) and size restrictions for animals transported in the cabin.
• Cargo Compartment: Larger animals or those that do not qualify for the cabin may be transported in the cargo compartment, under specific temperature and pressure-controlled conditions defined by the airline.

The FAA, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), establishes guidelines to protect the rights of children and families traveling by air:

• Free Seats for Minors: On domestic flights operated by U.S. airlines, children under the age of 2 may travel on the lap of a fare-paying adult at no additional cost. If the adult desires, they may purchase a seat for the child at the applicable fare. The FAA strongly recommends that parents with infants purchase an additional seat and use an FAA-approved Child Restraint System (CRS), such as a car seat.
• Stroller and Car Seat Allowance: Airlines generally allow parents to transport strollers and car seats at no additional cost. These items may be checked at the boarding gate or at the ticket counter. The FAA requires that airlines disclose their specific policies regarding these items.
• Assistance for Families: While there is no federal rule mandating priority boarding for families, many airlines offer this courtesy. It is advisable to check the airline’s policy in advance.
• Child Restraint Systems (CRS): The FAA recommends using child restraint systems approved for use on aircraft. Parents who choose to use a CRS must ensure it is properly certified and that the label indicates, "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft."

The FAA, through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), has rigorous regulations to ensure that passengers with disabilities receive proper assistance.

• Wheelchairs and Mobility Equipment: Airlines are required to allow passengers to use their own wheelchairs and other mobility equipment up to the boarding gate. These items must be accommodated and returned to the passenger upon arrival. Equipment that does not fit in the cabin baggage compartment is transported in the cargo hold.
• Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Airlines must provide free assistance to passengers with reduced mobility, including help moving between check-in and the boarding gate, boarding, and deplaning.
• Seat Priority: While there is no federal rule guaranteeing specific seats, airlines must make reasonable efforts to accommodate passengers with disabilities in seats that best meet their needs whenever possible.
• Medical Forms (MEDIF): In cases where a passenger’s medical condition may affect flight safety or require special assistance, the airline may request a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) completed by the passenger’s physician. This form helps determine the assistance needs and flight safety requirements.
• Request Deadlines: To ensure that necessary assistance is provided, passengers with disabilities who require special assistance (such as boarding/deplaning aid, transport of medical equipment) should notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance. Requests made with less than 48 hours' notice will be accommodated if reasonably possible.

• Traveler's Information - FAA: https://www.faa.gov/travelers
• Passenger Rights - U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/passenger-rights
• Baggage - FAA: https://www.faa.gov/baggage
• Transportation of Pets - FAA: https://www.faa.gov/pets (Note: The FAA provides general safety guidelines; baggage and pet transport policies are primarily determined by the airlines).
• Disability & Accessibility - U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/disability-and-accessibility
• Aviation Consumer Protection & Enforcement - U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer