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New Rule Penalizes Airlines,
Requires Loaner Wheelchairs

January 2, 2025

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has finalized a new rule requiring airlines to provide loaner wheelchairs when a passenger’s mobility device is damaged or delayed. Effective January 16, the new rule also increases penalties for mishandled mobility devices, introduces new training requirements for airline employees, and improves standards for onboard assistive devices.

Airlines damage or destroy 10,000-15,000 mobility devices every year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The new rule mandates that airlines return wheelchairs in the same condition they were received, and presumes the airline is at fault for any damage, unless proven otherwise. If a loaner wheelchair does not meet a passenger’s needs, the airline must reimburse the cost of an alternative wheelchair.

A major advancement for disabled travelers, the new accountability rule is expected to significantly reduce the number of incidents involving damaged mobility devices.

 

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