Planning To Take A Wheelchair At The Airport? Here’s Why You May Have To Pay More | Auto News
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DGCA has proposed a rule allowing airlines to charge fees from fit passengers misusing wheelchair services at airports. Public feedback is open till September 19
According to the draft, an assistance fee can be charged from passengers without disabilities who request wheelchair services. (AI Generated)
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has proposed new rules to prevent the misuse of wheelchair facilities at airports. Under the draft regulation, airlines will be allowed to charge a fee from passengers who are physically fit but still request wheelchairs. Suggestions on this draft, Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR), have been invited from the public until September 19.
According to the draft, assistance fees can be charged from passengers who do not have any disability or mobility issues yet seek wheelchair services. Officials say many travellers exploit this facility to bypass long queues at immigration and security, creating difficulties for those who genuinely need assistance.
On certain flights, airlines report receiving multiple unnecessary wheelchair requests, making it challenging to accommodate elderly passengers or those with special needs.
This proposal comes ahead of a Bombay High Court hearing scheduled for September 25. In April this year, the court had set up a committee headed by a retired judge to review the availability of wheelchairs at airports and the challenges faced by elderly and differently abled passengers. The court had also emphasised that access to such facilities is a “fundamental human right”.
The DGCA draft further outlines that providing wheelchairs will be a shared responsibility between airlines and airport operators. Airport operators will be required to create special drop-off points for passengers who have pre-booked wheelchairs and ensure designated areas inside the terminal for easy access.
Airlines argue that misuse of the facility not only strains resources but also delays support for those in urgent need. By introducing fees for non-eligible passengers, the DGCA aims to increase the availability of wheelchairs and improve inclusivity in air travel.
However, experts and stakeholders stress that all perspectives must be considered before finalising the rule. Seeking public feedback, the DGCA says the step is intended to improve facilities for passengers while easing operational challenges for airlines and airports alike.
September 06, 2025, 15:47 IST
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