United Spinal Association applauds the U.S. Department of Transportation’s $50 million fine against American Airlines. This penalty addresses the airline’s longstanding mistreatment of passengers who use wheelchairs.
“It is very unfortunate that the DOT has to enforce a monumental fine against an iconic air carrier to ensure our basic rights are respected and protected,” says United Spinal President & CEO Vincenzo Piscopo, who uses a wheelchair. “Money won’t fix the indignity of being mistreated while traveling as a wheelchair user, but it sends a message to the industry that change must come. No excuses. We applaud DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s commitment to our community.”
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On several occasions, Piscopo himself has run afoul of the negligence and mistreatment that is endemic to air travel for people with disabilities. As many as 1,000 wheelchairs, mobility devices, and scooters are lost, damaged, or destroyed on flights every month.
Damage to equipment prevents wheelchair users from attending work, enjoying pastimes, and otherwise being able to live independent and fulfilling lives. Life-changing injuries—or death—can also result from the mishandling of passengers with disabilities.
Ask DOT to finish the job
As monumental as the Department of Transportation’s $50 million fine against American Airlines is, it’s not enough. Next, we need DOT to finish the job and finalize their pending rulemaking entitled, “Ensuring Safe Accommodations for Air Travelers With Disabilities Using Wheelchairs.”
Take Action and tell DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg to finalize the rule now!
United Spinal strives to ensure that all wheelchair users can book the commercial flight of their choosing to their next adventure, business meeting, or visit with family and friends, trusting they will arrive safely with their bodies, equipment and dignity intact. Toward this goal, it collaborates with airlines, organizations representing airport workers, and advocacy coalitions. Visit United Spinal’s Accessible Air Travel initiative for more information.