US Airlines Could Be Fined for Mishandling Passenger Wheelchairs Under Proposed Rule

February 29th, 3:30 PM EST

By Nathan Vicar

Wheelchair

Pixabay via MGN

(NEWSnet) — The U.S. Transportation Department is proposing new rules to strengthen protections for airline passengers using wheelchairs.

Under the proposal, airlines will be required to provide loaner wheelchairs and transport wheelchairs to passenger's final destination within 24 hours of arrival.

Damage to wheelchairs and scooters during air travel is a growing problem. The Transportation Department said 11,527 of the devices were mishandled by airlines last year, up from 10,337 in 2022.

Airlines could face a roughly $125,000 fine if they damage a wheelchair or delay its return to the passenger at the end of a flight.

The agency also calls for airlines to provide annual training for employees who handle wheelchairs or lift passengers with disabilities.

In addition, they're also working on a plan to make lavatories large enough for passengers with a disability and an attendant to enter.

The department is also considering future regulations to allow passengers to stay in their own wheelchairs when they fly.

There will be a 60-day period for public comment on the proposed rule. It’s not clear, however, when or if the proposal will ever become final.

Follow NEWSnet on Facebook and X platform to get our headlines in your social feeds.