Can travelers with temporary disabilities request SSR services?

Travelers with temporary disabilities can indeed request SSR services because the purpose of these services is to assist individuals who may require additional help or accommodations due to mobility or accessibility challenges, regardless of whether those challenges are permanent or temporary. The SSR system is designed to ensure that all passengers have a comfortable and safe travel experience, and this includes those who might be recovering from an injury or facing a short-term disability.

The process for requesting SSR services is inclusive and aims to remove barriers that could hinder travel for those who need assistance. This is essential in promoting equal access to air travel. As a result, recognizing temporary disabilities as qualifying conditions helps ensure that all travelers can receive the support they need.

Other options limit the definition of disability inappropriately. For example, stating that only permanent disabilities qualify excludes a significant group of travelers who may be temporarily impaired. Requiring a doctor's note or only allowing severe conditions also creates unnecessary barriers that contradict the intent of SSR services, which is to make travel easier for all passengers with any form of disability, regardless of severity or permanence.