Major US airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, are challenging a new Department of Transportation rule that increases penalties for damaged or lost mobility devices. The rule, which took effect on January 16, strengthens protections for travelers using wheelchairs, requiring better training, reimbursement for transport or fare differences, and prompt repairs or replacements.
The airlines argue that the rule’s definition of discrimination is too broad and claims some situations, such as turbulence damaging a wheelchair, are beyond their control. They filed an appeal with the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday, claiming that the section of the rule defining discrimination is “unlawful” and “overreaching”.
The Department of Transportation’s final rule requires airlines to consider mishandling wheelchairs, scooters, and assistive devices as a form of disability-based discrimination. The rule states that such actions impose burdens on passengers with disabilities that they do not impose on passengers without disabilities.
The industry group Airlines for America (A4A) claims that some protections should not fall under the definition of discrimination, such as flights where wheelchairs cannot be accommodated in the cabin or cargo. A spokesperson for A4A stated that US airlines are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a safe, inclusive travel experience for passengers with disabilities.
This is not the first time airlines have challenged the DOT’s rule. In May 2024, A4A filed a suit against the DOT over requiring upfront disclosure of airline fees, claiming it would confuse consumers and “regulate private business operations”.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/02/19/airlines-challenge-dots-rule-travelers-disabilities/79115676007