Wheelchair users rejoice! Learn how the new DOT rule will transform your air travel experience
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Navigating airports and flying can be stressful for anyone, but for those who rely on wheelchairs, the experience has often been fraught with even more challenges. From damaged mobility devices to inadequate assistance, the journey through the skies has been less than friendly for many.
However, a significant change is on the horizon, promising a more dignified and hassle-free travel experience for wheelchair users. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has finalized a rule that is set to revolutionize air travel for individuals with mobility devices.
"A rule that makes good on the requirement of safe and importantly dignified air travel for wheelchair users is, I think, much needed," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. "Something that may sound a little more technical, but the vendor piece where you, the passenger, get to pick the vendor versus being at the mercy of the airline is very important."
According to the Transportation Department, airlines cause damage or destruction to around 10,000 to 15,000 mobility devices every year, a rate of around 1.4% in 2023.
Travelers and advocates have remarked that wheelchair damage is similar to breaking a disabled passenger’s legs. Teresa Nguyen, a victim of wheelchair damage during her United Airlines flight, remarked, “I’d really like that to be recognized, that it’s not property damage, it’s like an injury to me.”
Furthermore, advocates have stated that it becomes more complicated when passengers have to undergo an airline’s preferred vendor for repairs or replacement rather than working directly with their own mobility device supplier.
“A lot of people have a wheelchair that's not just a generic wheelchair you can get off the shelf,” said Buttieg. Additionally, the Transportation Department mentioned that the new rule “will allow for increased penalties,” like the $50 million fine levied against American Airlines for wheelchair damages earlier this year.
The finalized rule by the DOT is a comprehensive package designed to address the numerous issues that have long plagued disabled travelers.
Key Features of the New Rule
1. Improved Training for Airline Staff
Airline employees and contractors will receive annual hands-on training to better assist disabled passengers and handle mobility devices. This means more knowledgeable and sensitive staff to ensure a smoother travel experience.
Airlines would also be mandated to provide people with assistance that does not put them at a higher risk for injury. For instance, during transfers between the wheelchair and the plane in a way that respects their autonomy, privacy, and independence.
Airlines would also be required to immediately board, deplane, and facilitate connecting flights for persons with disabilities, and the passenger’s personal wheelchair must be as near to the aircraft door as possible, upon request.
2. Stricter Timelines for Device Return
The rule mandates that airlines must return delayed mobility devices within 24 hours for domestic flights and within 30 hours for longer international flights. This reduces the time wheelchair users are without their own equipment.
3. Passenger Choice in Repairs
In cases where a mobility device is damaged, passengers now have the power to choose their preferred vendor for repairs or replacements, rather than being limited to the airline's selection. This ensures that repairs meet the specific needs of the device and its user.
4. Increased Penalties for Airlines
Airlines will face stiffer penalties for mishandling mobility devices. Earlier this year, American Airlines was fined $50 million for such damages, signaling the seriousness of these new measures.
5. Rebuttable Presumption
Airlines are now presumed to be at fault when a passenger's mobility device is returned damaged after a flight. This shifts the burden of proof, making it easier for passengers to receive compensation.
6. Enhanced Passenger Notifications
Airlines must inform passengers about their rights and the status of their mobility devices at various stages of the travel process, including before departure, upon arrival, and after any mishandling.
7. Loaner Accommodations
While a damaged device is being repaired or replaced, airlines are required to provide loaner mobility equipment that meets the passenger's functional and safety needs.
8. Reimbursement for Inconveniences
If a mobility device is delayed or doesn't fit on the aircraft, airlines must reimburse passengers for any additional costs incurred, such as ground transportation or fare differences.
9. Airport Seating and Onboard Wheelchairs
Airlines must consult with disability rights organizations to create safe waiting areas at airports and improve onboard wheelchairs.
The new rule takes effect between January 16, 2025 and June 17, 2026, with some provisions having later implementation deadlines. This gives airlines time to adjust their policies and training programs to comply with the new standards.
Have you or a loved one faced challenges while traveling with a mobility device? Are there tips or strategies you've found helpful? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
However, a significant change is on the horizon, promising a more dignified and hassle-free travel experience for wheelchair users. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has finalized a rule that is set to revolutionize air travel for individuals with mobility devices.
"A rule that makes good on the requirement of safe and importantly dignified air travel for wheelchair users is, I think, much needed," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. "Something that may sound a little more technical, but the vendor piece where you, the passenger, get to pick the vendor versus being at the mercy of the airline is very important."
According to the Transportation Department, airlines cause damage or destruction to around 10,000 to 15,000 mobility devices every year, a rate of around 1.4% in 2023.
Travelers and advocates have remarked that wheelchair damage is similar to breaking a disabled passenger’s legs. Teresa Nguyen, a victim of wheelchair damage during her United Airlines flight, remarked, “I’d really like that to be recognized, that it’s not property damage, it’s like an injury to me.”
The US Department of Transportation has finalized a new rule to enhance the rights of airline passengers using mobility devices. Image source: Pexels / Marcus Aurelius.
Furthermore, advocates have stated that it becomes more complicated when passengers have to undergo an airline’s preferred vendor for repairs or replacement rather than working directly with their own mobility device supplier.
“A lot of people have a wheelchair that's not just a generic wheelchair you can get off the shelf,” said Buttieg. Additionally, the Transportation Department mentioned that the new rule “will allow for increased penalties,” like the $50 million fine levied against American Airlines for wheelchair damages earlier this year.
The finalized rule by the DOT is a comprehensive package designed to address the numerous issues that have long plagued disabled travelers.
Key Features of the New Rule
1. Improved Training for Airline Staff
Airline employees and contractors will receive annual hands-on training to better assist disabled passengers and handle mobility devices. This means more knowledgeable and sensitive staff to ensure a smoother travel experience.
Airlines would also be mandated to provide people with assistance that does not put them at a higher risk for injury. For instance, during transfers between the wheelchair and the plane in a way that respects their autonomy, privacy, and independence.
Airlines would also be required to immediately board, deplane, and facilitate connecting flights for persons with disabilities, and the passenger’s personal wheelchair must be as near to the aircraft door as possible, upon request.
2. Stricter Timelines for Device Return
The rule mandates that airlines must return delayed mobility devices within 24 hours for domestic flights and within 30 hours for longer international flights. This reduces the time wheelchair users are without their own equipment.
3. Passenger Choice in Repairs
In cases where a mobility device is damaged, passengers now have the power to choose their preferred vendor for repairs or replacements, rather than being limited to the airline's selection. This ensures that repairs meet the specific needs of the device and its user.
4. Increased Penalties for Airlines
Airlines will face stiffer penalties for mishandling mobility devices. Earlier this year, American Airlines was fined $50 million for such damages, signaling the seriousness of these new measures.
5. Rebuttable Presumption
Airlines are now presumed to be at fault when a passenger's mobility device is returned damaged after a flight. This shifts the burden of proof, making it easier for passengers to receive compensation.
6. Enhanced Passenger Notifications
Airlines must inform passengers about their rights and the status of their mobility devices at various stages of the travel process, including before departure, upon arrival, and after any mishandling.
7. Loaner Accommodations
While a damaged device is being repaired or replaced, airlines are required to provide loaner mobility equipment that meets the passenger's functional and safety needs.
8. Reimbursement for Inconveniences
If a mobility device is delayed or doesn't fit on the aircraft, airlines must reimburse passengers for any additional costs incurred, such as ground transportation or fare differences.
9. Airport Seating and Onboard Wheelchairs
Airlines must consult with disability rights organizations to create safe waiting areas at airports and improve onboard wheelchairs.
The new rule takes effect between January 16, 2025 and June 17, 2026, with some provisions having later implementation deadlines. This gives airlines time to adjust their policies and training programs to comply with the new standards.
Have you or a loved one faced challenges while traveling with a mobility device? Are there tips or strategies you've found helpful? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
