[Blindtlk] The Unfriendly Skies -- What happened?

[Hyde, David W. (ESC)]

Your rights are the same as they were as a non-blind person. Airlines now have rules dealing with exit rows, and being able to see is one of those essential functions. You may not sit in an exit row. Those of us who were involved in the airline fight are happy that the airlines are no longer assigning us exit row seats. Some of us can tell stories.

You may keep your cane with you, stored along the fuselage. You may refuse help, under the ADA. On the other hand, under air travel rules, you must comply with all crew instructions. I am not a lawyer, and have no opinion as to which law controls. Rule of thumb, if you look like you know what you're doing, they will probably believe you. Get help when you need it.

They will take your cane for scanning at security. There is nothing you can do about it. Even though it is demeaning to hold someone's hand and be pulled through the detection device, you won't beat this one. One other thing that seems to get checked at security is your dignity.

Don't worry about flying as a blind person, unless, of course, you plan to fly the plane. Then, please practice.