In an effort to make air travel more accessible for minors and disabled passengers requiring assistance, Rep. Greg Steube (R-Florida) introduced the Fast Lane for Youths Act (FLY Act) on January 9, 2025. This bill, designated H.R. 321, proposes a streamlined system to expedite gate passes and flight access procedures for caregivers, parents, and guardians accompanying these passengers.
Key Provisions of the FLY Act
The bill directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to collaborate on developing a system that allows designated caregivers to receive expedited gate passes. This system would:
- Ensure up to two gate passes are provided for eligible caregivers, parents, or guardians of a qualified passenger.
- Allow individuals who qualify for TSA PreCheck to receive passes that reflect their PreCheck status, which would permit expedited screening.
According to the text of the bill, the FAA and TSA would have 180 days from the bill’s enactment to establish this system.
Addressing a Travel Concern
Currently, many caregivers face obstacles when trying to accompany minors or disabled passengers beyond airport security checkpoints. The FLY Act aims to remove these barriers by making it easier for caregivers to provide support to those passengers as they navigate their departure airport.
The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Homeland Security for further review.
If passed, the FLY Act would significantly improve travel convenience for families and disabled passengers. WheelchairTravel.org supports passage of this common sense legislation.
