Turkey On Board

              In 1986, Congress passed the Air Carrier Access Act which allows service animals, including emotional support animals, to fly on planes regardless of other passenger objections, provided they have the necessary documentation from a mental health professional.  However, dogs aren’t the only service animals hopping on board these days.  Horses, pigs, and now turkeys have flown with their owners. 

                As of recent, a turkey flew on a Delta flight as a claim that it was an emotional support animal.  The turkey was given its own seat and a ride through the airport on a wheelchair.  There are some guidelines on bringing these animals on board, including the rule that they are not allowed to walk around the cabin, block aisles, or take up seats near the emergency doors. There are some service animals that are prohibited, however, including snakes and other reptiles, ferrets, rodents, and spiders.  While farm poultry is prohibited, domestic birds such as turkeys are not. 

                A few problems can arise from this situation though as passengers may be allergic to the animals, or the fact that the animals could bite crew members or other passengers (which has happened before).  However, all accommodations must be made to allow access to the service animals as airlines can face fines up to $150,000 for denying requests for legitimate support animals.  

 http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2016/01/14/turkey-ruffles-feathers-about-emotional-support-animals-on-flights/