United Airlines Faces Backlash Over Handling of Disabled Child's Ventilator

Melissa Sotomayor says flight crew repeatedly demanded she remove her son's life-sustaining medical equipment, despite providing documentation, prompting public outrage and legal considerations.

Melissa Sotomayor alleges United Airlines staff demanded she remove her son's ventilator and oxygen concentrator before takeoff, citing FAA guidelines, despite providing medical clearance documents.
Sotomayor claims the flight crew suggested her son could be temporarily removed from the equipment, which she refused, stating it was essential to his survival.
The incident delayed the flight by over an hour and left Sotomayor feeling humiliated, with other passengers reportedly supporting her during the ordeal.
United Airlines has apologized but attributed the issue to a 'bulkhead seating problem,' a claim Sotomayor disputes and deems insincere.
The incident, which gained widespread attention through a viral TikTok video, has sparked public criticism of United's treatment of disabled passengers, with Sotomayor now exploring legal options.