I suspect this violates one or another aspect of the ADA. Especially as the OP followed the carrier's and the TSA's instructions and was given (verbal, but app

I suspect this violates one or another aspect of the ADA. Especially as the OP followed the carrier's and the TSA's instructions and was given (verbal, but apparently authoritative) approval in advance. If we had an Administration actually interested in these things: A first step would be to require the carrier to transmit written, authoritatively-signed approval in advance for all such accommodations granted. Yes, this will cost them something. At this point, let them eat that cost. If it were possible, I'd require them to create a separate accounting bucket for such expenses that can only be charged against gross profit and, to the best extent possible, cannot be charged back to ticket prices and therefore other customers' fares. If their institution is so fucked up that they cannot properly and accurately accommodate legally-mandated behavior, then they should pay for this -- out of their own pocket, not the customers'. This is a case where "hit them in the pocket" is quite appropriate. And, maybe it will have to come out of customers' pockets, ultimately. I see it as akin to Walmart, where the workforce is only sustainable because of substantial government program payouts -- tax dollars -- that subsidize it. If United, et al.'s making money requires this level of disfunctional organization, then they need to find a better business model.