Several major U.S. airlines are working to challenge a comprehensive rule established by the Biden administration that aims to enhance standards for accommodating passengers with disabilities, particularly those who use wheelchairs. American Airlines Group Inc., Delta Air Lines Inc., JetBlue Airways Corp., Southwest Airlines Co., and United Airlines Holdings Inc. have partnered with the industry organization Airlines for America to request that the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals annul the regulation. In their court filing, they argue that the U.S. Department of Transportation has overstepped its authority and misused its discretion.
This legal action coincides with former President Donald Trump’s criticism of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies across the federal government, which he deems wasteful and discriminatory. Concerns have been raised by disabled workers following Trump’s remarks suggesting that DEI initiatives, including those benefiting disabled individuals, may have played a role in a recent fatal commercial airline accident near Washington.
The Department of Transportation, which implemented the rule in December during the closing days of the Biden administration, was praised by then-Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for holding airlines accountable for inadequate treatment of passengers with disabilities. The rule introduces new training requirements for airline staff who assist disabled travelers and imposes stiffer penalties for the mishandling of mobility devices, such as wheelchairs. According to the department, for every 100 wheelchairs or scooters transported on domestic flights, at least one is either damaged, delayed, or lost.
While the airlines’ court filing did not provide specific details regarding their legal arguments against the rule, further discussions are anticipated in the case. Airlines for America has refrained from commenting on the lawsuit but stated that the airlines it represents are committed to enhancing the travel experience for passengers with disabilities. American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue have directed all inquiries about the challenge to the industry group, and representatives from the other airlines have not yet responded to requests for comment. The case is identified as Airlines for America v. Department of Transportation, 25-60071, in the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
