Paralyzed Veterans of America is applauding the Department of Transportation ruling
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) is applauding the Department of Transportation (DOT) ruling that large domestic airlines must track and report information about wheelchairs and scooters that will allow passengers with disabilities to make informed decisions about air travel.
Starting with flights taking place on Jan. 1, 2018, airlines will be required to report monthly to DOT the total number of wheelchairs and scooters placed in aircrafts’ cargo holds.
Airlines will also need to report how many of those wheelchairs and scooters were “mishandled.” DOT considers a wheelchair or scooter to have been mishandled if it’s lost, delayed, damaged or pilfered.
“Damage to wheelchairs is a top concern for our members,” says PVA National President Al Kovach Jr. “We hope that these metrics will provide data that will reveal specific areas in which training may be needed to reduce damage and fulfill the requirements and spirit of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).”
Last January, PVA launched a website in honor of the 30th anniversary of the ACAA, where individuals with disabilities can share their air travel experiences, both positive and negative. These stories will help PVA continue to advocate for improved access in air travel.
The website can found at airaccess30.org.
