The nation's largest airlines, including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United, are legally challenging new consumer protection rules instituted by the Biden administration for disabled travelers. A lawsuit claims that the U.S. Department of Transportation exceeded its authority in implementing regulations that penalize mishandling wheelchairs. Despite reported improvements in handling and support for passengers with disabilities, the airlines argue such mandates are excessive. Disability advocates, however, emphasize the need for such rules, citing a significant number of mishandled wheelchairs annually, highlighting ongoing accessibility challenges in air travel.
The nation’s largest airlines are seeking to overturn new consumer protection rules for travelers with disabilities, claiming the U.S. Department of Transportation exceeded its authority.
Airlines for America argues that changes to wheelchair mishandling regulations from the Biden administration are unnecessary and represent an unlawful overreach.
The 2024 rule, enacted last year, made mishandling wheelchairs a violation of the federal Air Carrier Access Act, drawing significant pushback from major carriers.
The new regulations aimed at improving airline travel for passengers with mobility aids are being challenged despite substantial mishandling of wheelchairs reported by carriers.
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