After criticism, Delta tweaks new service animal policy

After criticism from groups representing blind people, Delta Air Lines is tweaking its new policy for travelers with service animals.

As part of tightened restrictions for passengers with emotional support animals starting March 1, Atlanta-based Delta was planning to require those with service or support animals to submit veterinary health forms or immunization records online 48 hours in advance.

But the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind said the restrictions were onerous and "violate the principle of equal access" for those with disabilities. For those with service animals, Delta will now no longer require the submissions 48 hours in advance; instead, the forms can be presented at the airport if requested. However, those with emotional support or psychiatric service animals will still have to submit their forms online 48-hours in advance and must use the full-service check-in counter at the airport.