United Airlines Enhances Accessibility for Wheelchair Users

United Airlines is making significant strides in improving accessibility for wheelchair users. The airline will introduce a new search feature that will allow travelers to search flights based on the size of their wheelchairs. This feature aims to ensure that every customer has the opportunity for a comfortable travel experience.

According to the company, this new digital filter will be available next year, enabling customers to enter the exact dimensions of their wheelchair and view a list of aircraft that can accommodate it. This initiative reflects United’s commitment to making air travel more inclusive and accessible.

Linda Jojo, United’s executive vice president and chief customer officer, stated, “By offering customers an easy way to know if their personal wheelchair fits on a particular airplane, we can give them the peace of mind they deserve when they fly with us. Plus, collecting this information ahead of time ensures our team can handle these special items with proper care and attention.”

Fare Difference Coverage

Moreover, if a traveler must book a higher-fare flight because a lower-fare option does not accommodate their wheelchair, United Airlines will cover the fare difference. However, it is important to note that this applies only when both flights are for the same route on the same day. To receive a refund, travelers will need to complete a form after their journey.

Examining Wheelchair Handling

Furthermore, United Airlines plans to assess how they handle situations where a wheelchair is damaged by implementing a six-month pilot program at George Bush Houston Intercontinental Airport. This program will evaluate the time taken to return a customer’s wheelchair or provide a loaner if their chair was damaged.

Accessibility Enhancements

United Airlines is continuously working to improve accessibility across its fleet. Recent efforts have included adding Braille to approximately a dozen planes, with Braille available in individual rows and seat numbers as well as inside and outside lavatories. This is part of their goal to retrofit the entire mainline fleet by the end of 2026.

Regulatory Changes in Air Travel

This new feature from United follows the Department of Transportation (DOT) finalizing a rule requiring bathrooms in new single-aisle aircraft to be wheelchair accessible. This rule, which will take effect for newly ordered planes within the next 10 years, reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity in the airline industry.

In addition to the bathroom accessibility rule, last year, the DOT introduced the first-ever bill of rights for airline passengers with disabilities, ensuring airlines cannot refuse transportation due to a disability.

United Airlines is not alone in these efforts. Other airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, have also made strides to enhance access for travelers who use powered wheelchairs, further promoting inclusive air travel options.