Accessibility-Related Airlines Policy Changes

Airlines can modify their accessibility policies and practices which may have an impact on passengers with disabilities who may not be aware of these changes.

For example, in June 2024, WestJet updated its mobility aid weight and size, and handling policy and updated its size and weight limits for all wheelchairs and similar mobility aids (https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/news/2024/-the-westjet-group-releases-first-accessibility-plan-progress-re).

Passengers are encouraged to check airlines’ policies each time they travel as these can change. Passengers who will be travelling with mobility aids should inform airlines of this fact when they book their flights, and whenever possible, at least 48 hours in advance of travel. The practical consequences for failure to be informed of airlines’ policies will vary depending on, for example, the type of aircraft and the size of the airline’s fleet. They could potentially include significant flight disruptions and alternative routings or, in some cases, an inability to carry the individual and their mobility aid.

In order to ensure that passengers receive critical information, it is important for airlines to convey such information as widely as possible. In addition to ensuring that airlines’ policies are clearly stated on their web sites and in their tariffs, airlines should consider multiple means of communication, such as news releases, posting on social media, and sharing the information directly with disability organizations that can share it with their membership.