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Air India is facing growing scrutiny over a sharp increase in requests for wheelchair assistance with viral photos and videos showing long lines of passengers waiting for mobility services at airports.
According to the airline, it now handles more than 100,000 wheelchair requests every month with some flights to the United States receiving close to 100 requests for assistance. The surge has sparked debate among travelers and aviation observers. Critics argue that some passengers who are capable of walking are requesting wheelchairs to bypass long security and immigration lines. This potentially slows service for travelers with genuine mobility needs.
The issue has drawn the attention of Indian aviation regulators who are reportedly considering whether to introduce fees or other measures to discourage misuse of the service. Others, however, say the situation is more nuanced. Many travelers request wheelchairs for elderly family members who may struggle to navigate large international airports, communicate in English, or manage lengthy walks and complex airport procedures.
For flights to the United States, airlines must also comply with accessibility regulations that require wheelchair assistance to be provided at no additional charge with limited ability to verify whether a passenger qualifies for the service.
Anthony’s Take: This is not limited to India. We had a flight to Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) where there were almost 50 wheelchairs waiting to board. I’m sure not everyone there needed the assistance.
(Featured Image Credit: @techbrahh via X.)
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2 comments
The wheelchair service is for pax who cannot walk or have genuine immobility. Too much fussing and faking.
I didn’t realize Southwest started flying to south Florida via India.