United Airlines Tightens Restrictions On Emotional Support Spouses

CHICAGO—Highlighting their pledge to deliver secure and pleasant flights to every traveler, United Airlines unveiled updated rules Friday targeting the misuse of emotional support spouses. "Beginning immediately, travelers must present documentation that their comfort husband or wife has received full vaccination, along with a note from a medical practitioner describing how the partner has been trained to assist," stated United Airlines representative Ron Lightsey, pointing out that the tougher standards respond to a wave of episodes, among them an occurrence in which an unqualified emotional support spouse bit a crew member in the face, leading to a hospital stay. "We've logged many grievances about misbehaving significant others who shouted, occupied whole seats, and even menaced fellow travelers. United Airlines acknowledges that bringing your support mate aboard offers therapeutic value to countless individuals who would otherwise feel too nervous to travel by air, however exploitation of these guidelines has compelled stronger oversight." United Airlines additionally verified that the updated regulation will not apply to caged spouses shipped in cargo.