Big airlines are fighting a new rule that could change everything for travelers with mobility devices—are your flights affected?
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Air travel can be exhausting, but for those who rely on wheelchairs, it often comes with added stress, uncertainty, and even indignities.
From worrying about whether their mobility device will be handled properly to navigating inconsistent assistance from airline staff, many travelers with disabilities face challenges most passengers never have to think about.
Now, a new federal rule aimed at improving air travel accessibility is making waves—but not everyone is on board.
Some of the biggest airlines in the US are fighting back, challenging a policy designed to provide wheelchair users with better protections.
What does this mean for travelers who depend on mobility devices? And how could this legal battle impact air travel moving forward?
The GrayVine is here to break it all down.
On January 16, under the Biden administration, the Department of Transportation (DOT) introduced a rule aimed at strengthening protections for travelers using wheelchairs.
This regulation requires airlines to:
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of these protections, stating that "safe and, importantly, dignified air travel for wheelchair users is much needed."
DOT data reveals that between 10,000 and 15,000 mobility devices are damaged or destroyed by airlines every year—a staggering statistic that underscores the need for change.
The DOT has taken a firm stance, stating that failing to properly handle wheelchairs or provide timely and dignified assistance is a form of disability discrimination.
The rule aims to address these long-standing issues and ensure that travelers with mobility challenges have the same level of service and respect as other passengers.
Despite its goal of improving accessibility, the rule is facing strong opposition from major US airlines.
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines—along with the industry lobbying group Airlines for America (A4A)—have filed an appeal in the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals.
Their main argument? The rule’s definition of discrimination is too broad and unfairly holds airlines responsible for incidents beyond their control.
For example, they cite situations where turbulence damages a properly secured wheelchair in the cargo hold.
A4A, representing the airlines, insists they are committed to providing an inclusive travel experience. They point to their ongoing work with the disability community and the DOT, as well as previous commitments to improving accessibility.
In 2022, the airline industry introduced a Passenger Accessibility Commitment, which includes:
This legal battle could have a lasting impact on air travel, particularly for passengers who rely on wheelchairs.
The outcome may determine whether airlines are required to take greater responsibility for mobility devices—or if the current system, with its inconsistencies and risks, remains in place.
For many, this rule represents an opportunity to make flying a safer, more dignified experience. For airlines, it presents logistical and financial challenges.
As the court case moves forward, travelers with disabilities and advocacy groups will be closely watching to see how it unfolds.
Related articles:
Wheelchair users rejoice! Learn how the new DOT rule will transform your air travel experience
Are you or your loved ones in danger? Critical recall issued for popular wheelchair component
Accessibility isn’t just about convenience—it’s about dignity, independence, and equal opportunity. Have you or a loved one faced challenges traveling with a wheelchair? What changes do you think airlines should make to improve accessibility? Share your thoughts and experiences below!
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From worrying about whether their mobility device will be handled properly to navigating inconsistent assistance from airline staff, many travelers with disabilities face challenges most passengers never have to think about.
Now, a new federal rule aimed at improving air travel accessibility is making waves—but not everyone is on board.
Some of the biggest airlines in the US are fighting back, challenging a policy designed to provide wheelchair users with better protections.
What does this mean for travelers who depend on mobility devices? And how could this legal battle impact air travel moving forward?
The GrayVine is here to break it all down.
Will new airline policies make travel easier for mobility device users? Image Source: Pexels / Ersan Yilmaz.
The rule that promises dignity in the skies
On January 16, under the Biden administration, the Department of Transportation (DOT) introduced a rule aimed at strengthening protections for travelers using wheelchairs.
This regulation requires airlines to:
- Improve training for staff assisting passengers with mobility devices.
- Reimburse passengers for transportation or fare differences if they cannot accommodate their wheelchair.
- Promptly repair or replace any damaged or lost mobility devices.
- Be held accountable for any mishandling of wheelchairs, scooters, or assistive devices.
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of these protections, stating that "safe and, importantly, dignified air travel for wheelchair users is much needed."
DOT data reveals that between 10,000 and 15,000 mobility devices are damaged or destroyed by airlines every year—a staggering statistic that underscores the need for change.
The DOT has taken a firm stance, stating that failing to properly handle wheelchairs or provide timely and dignified assistance is a form of disability discrimination.
The rule aims to address these long-standing issues and ensure that travelers with mobility challenges have the same level of service and respect as other passengers.
Airlines push back against the rule
Despite its goal of improving accessibility, the rule is facing strong opposition from major US airlines.
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines—along with the industry lobbying group Airlines for America (A4A)—have filed an appeal in the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals.
Their main argument? The rule’s definition of discrimination is too broad and unfairly holds airlines responsible for incidents beyond their control.
For example, they cite situations where turbulence damages a properly secured wheelchair in the cargo hold.
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A4A, representing the airlines, insists they are committed to providing an inclusive travel experience. They point to their ongoing work with the disability community and the DOT, as well as previous commitments to improving accessibility.
In 2022, the airline industry introduced a Passenger Accessibility Commitment, which includes:
- A dedicated passenger accessibility advisory group.
- Enhanced employee training.
- Improved passenger transfers and handling of mobility devices.
- Support for research into better onboard accessibility solutions.
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What does this mean for travelers?
This legal battle could have a lasting impact on air travel, particularly for passengers who rely on wheelchairs.
The outcome may determine whether airlines are required to take greater responsibility for mobility devices—or if the current system, with its inconsistencies and risks, remains in place.
For many, this rule represents an opportunity to make flying a safer, more dignified experience. For airlines, it presents logistical and financial challenges.
As the court case moves forward, travelers with disabilities and advocacy groups will be closely watching to see how it unfolds.
Related articles:
Wheelchair users rejoice! Learn how the new DOT rule will transform your air travel experience
Are you or your loved ones in danger? Critical recall issued for popular wheelchair component
Accessibility isn’t just about convenience—it’s about dignity, independence, and equal opportunity. Have you or a loved one faced challenges traveling with a wheelchair? What changes do you think airlines should make to improve accessibility? Share your thoughts and experiences below!
Read next: Scientists stunned by California squirrels' rapid evolution and behavior shift
