The Friendly Skies? Why Airline Wheelchair Damage is the Industry’s Biggest Controversy

Dr Karen C Dwire

Published on: 27/02/2026

When airlines damage a wheelchair, they aren’t just mishandling luggage — they are disrupting independence, safety, and dignity. This article explores the ongoing issue of airlines failing to properly protect mobility devices, what it means for disabled travelers, and why accessible air travel must be treated as a fundamental right, not an afterthought.