He observed instances where 20 passengers were provided wheelchairs before flights, yet only three were actually needed upon arrival, stating, “We are accommodating so many individuals.
In 1986, the Air Carrier Access Act mandated that airlines offer wheelchair assistance to passengers with disabilities at airports. However, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle claims many travelers are exploiting this service. Speaking at a Wings Club luncheon in New York, Biffle cited instances where 20 passengers were provided wheelchairs before flights, but only three were genuinely required upon arrival. He humorously remarked, “We are ‘healing’ so many people.”
Biffle emphasized that the issue lies not with travelers’ personal wheelchairs, but rather with the service provided by airlines upon arrival at the airport. He highlighted the financial impact, noting it costs the airline between $30 and $35 each time a wheelchair is requested. Moreover, he stressed that abuse of the service causes delays for passengers who genuinely need assistance.
Biffle advocated for penalties similar to those for misusing handicapped parking spaces. He argued that while everyone who requires wheelchair assistance should receive it, there should be repercussions for those who exploit the service.
Earlier this year, the Department of Transportation proposed stricter regulations to prevent wheelchair damage by airport ground handlers and ensure timely assistance for travelers with disabilities during boarding and disembarkation.