USDOT Proposes New Rules to Strengthen Protections for Airline Passengers Using Wheelchairs

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has announced new proposed rules aimed at strengthening protections for airline passengers who use wheelchairs. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated that these regulations mark the most significant expansion of rights for wheelchair users since 2008.

Growing Concerns

Buttigieg highlighted that there are millions of Americans with disabilities who refrain from air travel due to inadequate airline practices and government regulations. He emphasized that economic incentives have not compelled airlines to pay sufficient attention to the proper handling of wheelchairs.

Statistics and Proposed Measures

In 2023, there were 11,527 incidents of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters by U.S. airlines, representing an 11.5% increase from 2022. Moreover, there are currently 5.5 million Americans who use wheelchairs, according to USDOT.

Under the proposed rules, passengers would have the authority to choose the vendor responsible for repairing or replacing their damaged wheelchairs. Additionally, airlines would be required to provide loaner wheelchairs and ensure that delayed wheelchairs are transported to passengers' final destinations within 24 hours of arrival. The regulations also aim to mandate enhanced employee training and ensure that personal wheelchairs are readily accessible to exiting passengers, as close as possible to the aircraft door.

Moreover, USDOT has expressed its desire to implement future regulations that would allow passengers to remain in their own wheelchairs during flights.

Public Input and Airline Agreements

The proposed rules will be open for public comments for a 60-day period. Additionally, the department is considering regulations to enable passengers to stay in their own wheelchairs when flying.