Brazilian Family Battles Airline to Bring Autistic Daughter's Service Dog to Portugal

A family from Rio de Janeiro recently relocated to Portugal and are facing a significant hurdle in bringing their 12-year-old autistic daughter's service dog, Teddy, along with them. Despite obtaining a favorable court order, TAP Airlines has twice refused to allow Teddy to travel in the cabin. Hayanne Porto Granjeiro, the girl's sister, expressed concern about Teddy's well-being and the impact of separation on her sister. "He cannot be handled by just anyone," she stated, "He would be exposed to conditions we don't know, which would prevent him from doing his job." The airline claims that the Brazilian court order violates their operational manual. However, Antonio José Silva, president of the OAB/RJ's Aeronautical Law Commission, explained that service dogs have specific travel conditions that should be accommodated. A conciliation hearing is scheduled for next week to attempt to resolve the impasse. The situation underscores the need for airlines to accommodate the needs of passengers with service animals.