On December 16, the U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) unveiled a groundbreaking final rule that will
significantly improve air travel for passengers with disabilities, particularly
for those who use wheelchairs and scooters. This new rule is a major
achievement for your Academy, whose advocacy efforts align with the improved
standards outlined in the final rule. The rule mandates more rigorous
standards for accommodating passengers with disabilities, better training for
airline staff, and comprehensive protections against mishandled or delayed
wheelchairs. The rule specifically improves the hands-on training airline
employees and contractors who assist passengers or handle wheelchairs receive.
This is critical, as improper handling or inadequate assistance has led to
serious injuries in the past. Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the
importance of this change, saying, “Every passenger deserves safe, dignified
travel when they fly,” noting that these new standards will hold airlines
accountable when they fail to provide fair treatment to passengers with
disabilities.
Back in June 2024, AAPM&R submitted comments to
the DOT in support of improving wheelchair accessibility and reducing health
risks for passengers who must transfer from their personal wheelchairs into
airplane seats. While the final rule does not fully address AAPM&R's
request to allow passengers to stay in their own wheelchairs during flights, it
sets the groundwork for further improvements. The rule requires airlines to
ensure passengers receive timely and safe assistance, including a guarantee
that their personal wheelchairs are promptly returned in good condition. If a
wheelchair is delayed, airlines must transport it to the passenger’s
destination within 24 hours for domestic flights, and 30 hours for
international flights. In addition to these protections, the rule ensures that
airlines notify passengers about the status of their wheelchairs, both before
departure and upon arrival, and provides passengers with the right to file
claims if their wheelchairs are mishandled. Airlines will also be required to
provide loaner wheelchairs and reimburse passengers for transportation costs if
their wheelchair is delayed.
AAPM&R’s efforts extend beyond comments during
the DOT's rulemaking. In 2023, the Academy successfully introduced a resolution
at the American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates (HOD), which
shifted AMA policy in this space. The AMA now advocates both Congress and the
Federal Aviation Administration push for enhanced flight accommodations for
wheelchair users. These efforts have not only garnered support for improved air
travel policies but have also helped raise awareness of the significant challenges
faced by passengers with disabilities.
This final rule is a significant step forward,
reflecting the tireless advocacy of AAPM&R and the disability community at
large. While there is still work to be done, this milestone lays the foundation
for safer, more inclusive air travel for all.