CanadaMust airlines accommodate passengers with disabilities?
Yes, airlines operating in Canada must accommodate passengers with disabilities to eliminate undue obstacles to mobility, as required by the Canada Transportation Act.
What the Law Says
The Canada Transportation Act sets the legal foundation for accessibility in federally regulated transportation, including air travel.
Under section 67 of the Canada Transportation Act, the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) has the authority to make regulations aimed at eliminating 'undue obstacles' to the mobility of persons with disabilities. This applies to all modes of transportation under federal jurisdiction — including airlines.
While the Act itself does not list specific accommodation requirements, it empowers the CTA to create binding rules. These include the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (SOR/2019-243), which set detailed obligations for airlines — such as assistance with boarding, seating, mobility devices, service animals, and communication support.
Statutory TextCanadian Transportation Agency may make regulations for the purpose of eliminating undue obstacles to the mobility of persons with disabilities.
— Canada Transportation Act, s. 67 — Accessibility
What Courts Have Said
Although the Supreme Court’s decision in Council of Canadians with Disabilities v. VIA Rail Canada Inc. concerned rail service, its principles directly inform how courts and regulators interpret accessibility duties across all federally regulated transport — including air travel.
The Court held that accommodating persons with disabilities requires more than token alternatives — accommodations must be reasonable, relevant to the passenger’s needs, and aligned with the National Transportation Policy’s goal of accessible, integrated transportation. It affirmed that assisting animals and individualized solutions are essential components of meaningful access.
What to Do
If you encounter an accessibility issue with an airline, request assistance directly from airline staff before or during travel.
Keep records of your request and any refusal or inadequate response.
File a complaint with the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) within one year of the incident.
You may also seek help from the CTA’s Accessibility Complaints and Inquiries team or consult a disability rights organization.
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
Australia
European Union
UK
India
US FederalNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.