Major Airlines Challenge Biden-Era Disability Protections in Court

Airlines argue new DOT rules on wheelchair handling and accessibility exceed federal authority, sparking legal battle over passenger rights.

Five major U.S. airlines, including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United, have joined a lawsuit to overturn new Department of Transportation (DOT) rules aimed at protecting passengers with disabilities.
The challenged rules, finalized in December 2024, include stricter penalties for mishandling wheelchairs, enhanced training for airline staff, and requirements for prompt assistance to disabled passengers.
Airlines claim the rules are overly broad, arguing that certain incidents, such as turbulence damaging mobility devices, should not be classified as discrimination under federal law.
Disability advocates have praised the DOT’s measures, highlighting the frequent mishandling of mobility devices, with 1 in 100 wheelchairs or scooters being lost, delayed, or damaged on domestic flights annually.
This legal challenge follows a history of fines and complaints against airlines, including a $50 million penalty against American Airlines in 2024 for violations involving passengers with disabilities.