The Illinois Spina Bifida Association protests the U.S. Department of Transportation’s removal of important protections for travelers who use wheelchairs. This change has left individuals who rely on mobility devices without the basic rights and safeguards necessary for safe, fair, and equal access to air travel.
As it stands, people who use wheelchairs are no longer free to move about the country without undue risk and hardship. Major U.S. airlines and the federal government are effectively saying:
There is no guarantee of reimbursement for damaged wheelchairs.
There is no requirement for written policies outlining the rights of air travelers who use wheelchairs.
There is no financial compensation if an airline cannot fit a wheelchair on the plane.
This is unacceptable. No one would tolerate airport security damaging their shoes with impunity. Why should airlines be permitted to damage or mishandle wheelchairs or devices that are essential to mobility and independence with no accountability?
Air travel should be accessible to everyone. The Illinois Spina Bifida Association urges the restoration of protections that uphold the dignity, safety, and equal rights of wheelchair users.
Click here to read more on this policy change.