'No one should have to travel like that': Many face barriers to accessible air transit

American Airlines is facing a $50 million fine from the U.S. Department of Transportation for employees’ treatment of mobility devices – like walkers, wheelchairs or scooters – and the people who rely on them. According to advocates, the issue goes far beyond just one airline.

Former state lawmaker and wheelchair user Jennifer Longdon said she feels she’s had to check her dignity at the door when flying.

“Airlines have just come to recognize that damaging our wheelchairs and dealing with the penalties and punishments is just the cost of doing business,” said Longdon. “They've never taken a strong hit to their profit margins as a result.”

She’s had both her legs broken on separate trips, with another passenger accidentally breaking a femur once. Multiple wheelchairs of hers have sustained enough damage to make a 6-pound repair kit a "must-have" in Longdon’s carry on.

“No one should have to travel like that,” Longdon said. “No one should have to travel risking their health and well-being and their dignity. And the airlines have made a profit judgment in that regard.”

Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Arizona, sits on the Transportation Committee in the House of Representatives. He said the often expensive, lengthy repair process for damaged equipment can be devastating.

“That could mean they're not able to do their job for three or four weeks, as they have to go through a repair process on their chair,” Stanton said. “This is a very serious issue that impacts not just the short term quality of life and individual’s ability, but may harm their professional opportunities.”

Longdon said while changes to the law and accountability measures are important, real progress hinges on the collective view of mobility devices.

“A baggage handler just took the wheelchair out and just, like, let it somersault down the ramp without any regard. Until folks see our wheelchairs for what they are – our liberation, our sole source of being able to move independently, in many cases – then this is going to continue to happen.”

She emphasized that anyone can find themselves needing a mobility device, even temporarily. And if other travelers see one or its user being mistreated, speaking up and voicing disapproval can be the first step to holding airlines accountable.