The U.S. Department of Transportation is implementing groundbreaking regulations to better protect wheelchairs during air travel. Starting in 2025, airlines must:
- Provide specific training for baggage handlers on wheelchair handling
- Report detailed data on wheelchair damage
- Compensate passengers for the full value of damaged mobility equipment
- Create dedicated storage areas in cargo holds
These changes mark a significant step forward in making air travel more accessible and reliable for wheelchair users. Airlines will be required to treat mobility equipment with the same care as passenger safety equipment.