CTA 101 - Making travel easier: your rights when travelling with severe allergies

January 13, 2025 – Gatineau, QC – The Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) reminds air travellers with severe allergies of their rights under the Accessible transportation for persons with disabilities regulations (ATPDR).

These regulations ensure that individuals whose allergies constitute a disability receive appropriate assistance to travel safely and comfortably in the federal transportation network.

Who Is Protected?

Passengers whose severe allergies may cause them to experience significant physical distress if they are directly exposed to allergens are considered persons living with a disability under the ATPDR. Transportation service providers must provide accommodations to reduce the risk of allergic reactions during travel. However, they may require supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.

Key Tips

• Advance notice: Passengers should inform their carrier of their allergy at least 48 hours before departure.
• Buffer zones: Travellers can request a seating area free of allergens, with adjacent passengers notified to avoid allergen exposure.
• Priority boarding: Passengers may pre-board to clean their seating area and settle in before others board.
• Medication access: Allergy medications, including epinephrine auto-injectors, should be kept in carry-on luggage for quick access.
• Food options: Passengers may bring their own food and beverages onboard to avoid exposure to allergens.

Additional Resources

For detailed guidance, visit the CTA’s official publication: Severe Allergies: A Guide.