U.S. Dept of Transportation Requires Airlines to Report Mishandled Wheelchairs and Scooters

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule that requires U.S. airlines to report data on incidents of mishandled wheelchairs and scooters in addition to other types of checked baggage. Carriers will be required to file with DOT on a monthly basis the total number of wheelchairs and scooters stored in cargo holds and the amount that have been mishandled, including damaged, lost, delayed, or pilfered. This information will be included in DOT's monthly Air Travel Consumer Reports. 

The new mandate, which takes effect January 1, 2018, applies to any air carrier accounting for at least 0.5% of domestic scheduled passenger revenue. According to DOT, the rule will enable air travelers with disabilities to compare carrier performance in this area and make informed travel decisions. For further information, visit DOT's website or contact Tim Kelly of DOT at tim.kelly@dot.gov or (202) 366-5952.