US Airlines Appeal New Disability Regulations: Lawmakers Stand Firm for Accessibility: What You Need To Know

Published on November 23, 2025

In a significant push for better air travel accessibility, a group of U.S. lawmakers has called on the Department of Transportation (DOT) to enforce the Biden-era protections laid out in the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). These protections, aimed at safeguarding the rights of passengers with disabilities, have faced recent challenges following appeals from major U.S. airlines. Lawmakers urge the DOT to uphold these vital regulations, which ensure that passengers with disabilities have the same opportunities to travel safely and with dignity.

Strengthening Protections for Passengers with Disabilities

The Air Carrier Access Act, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at eliminating discrimination in air travel, outlines specific requirements for airlines when it comes to assisting passengers with disabilities. This includes rules for handling mobility devices (such as wheelchairs) and providing adequate assistance for passengers throughout their journey. In the wake of the October 2024 penalties, where American Airlines was fined USD 50 million for mishandling mobility aids, the implementation of these protections has never been more critical. The recent move by U.S. lawmakers reinforces the need for these provisions, which guarantee that airlines adhere to the standards for handling mobility devices and assisting passengers.

The DOT had initially planned to implement stricter regulations under the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights. However, in September 2025, the department paused enforcement of certain provisions, including the requirement for airlines to compensate passengers when their wheelchairs are damaged or delayed during transit. This delay has sparked concern among advocates and lawmakers, leading to a push for immediate enforcement.

Airline Industry Challenges and Legislative Response

The latest challenges came when five of the largest U.S. airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways, filed an appeal against the new provisions. These airlines argue that the updated standards, particularly the requirement for airlines to pay for the repair or replacement of wheelchairs, would impose undue financial burdens on the industry. This move has been met with strong opposition from lawmakers, especially those on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, who see these regulations as essential for ensuring equal access to air travel for all passengers, regardless of ability.

In a letter to the DOT, fourteen Democratic lawmakers underscored their commitment to protecting disabled passengers’ rights. They emphasised that the ACAA standards are critical for ensuring a level playing field in air travel, allowing people with disabilities to travel with the same level of comfort and dignity as any other passenger.

The DOT’s Role in Ensuring Air Travel Accessibility

The U.S. Department of Transportation, under the leadership of Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Secretary Duffy, plays a central role in enforcing air travel accessibility regulations. Following the controversial $50 million fine against American Airlines, the DOT has made it clear that it intends to pursue robust enforcement of the ACAA to ensure that airlines meet the required standards. However, the decision to pause enforcement has raised concerns, as it means that passengers with disabilities could experience further disruptions and challenges during their travel experience.

One of the most significant provisions in the ACAA includes requiring airlines to reimburse passengers for damaged or delayed mobility aids. A recent report revealed that at least 1 in 100 mobility devices are mishandled by airlines on domestic flights, which has led to a surge in complaints from travellers. The ACAA stipulates that airlines must also improve employee training, including new certification standards, to handle mobility devices properly and provide efficient assistance.

The Importance of These Protections for Disabled Travellers

The need for these protections is clear, with approximately 5.5 million Americans using mobility aids during travel, and many others encountering obstacles related to accessibility in airports and on airplanes. By upholding and strengthening these protections, the U.S. government can ensure that the air travel industry becomes more inclusive and accessible for everyone. The ACAA and the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights are vital for protecting the rights of travellers with disabilities and ensuring that they can travel freely and comfortably without facing discrimination or unnecessary barriers.

Ensuring Equal Access to Air Travel

The efforts by lawmakers to support the Air Carrier Access Act highlight the ongoing need to protect disabled passengers’ rights in the air travel sector. As the U.S. Department of Transportation reviews the enforcement of these provisions, it is crucial that the government continues to prioritise these protections. Ensuring access to safe, dignified travel for passengers with disabilities not only benefits individuals but also promotes a more inclusive and accessible travel environment for all. With continued advocacy and stronger enforcement, the ACAA can serve as a model for global air travel standards, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the freedom of travel without facing unnecessary barriers.