A qualified disabled individual is defined as someone who:

A qualified disabled individual is defined as someone who has a disability and meets specific contract requirements because this definition is rooted in policies that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to necessary services and accommodations.

In airline operations and regulations, "qualified" typically refers to individuals who not only have a documented disability but also fulfill particular criteria set forth by contracts, such as those related to accessibility and assistance. This ensures that the airline can provide the appropriate level of support, whether it involves accommodations, assistance during travel, or adherence to legal standards concerning accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The other choices present criteria that either do not define a qualified disabled individual or focus on aspects not relevant to the definition of a qualified disabled person in the context of airline operations. For instance, having never flown before does not relate to the definition of a disability, while the ability to board without assistance or requiring special luggage handling speaks to individual capabilities and requirements rather than the qualifications tied to a disability status.