The U.S. Department of Transportation is extending its decision not to enforce several provisions of the 2024 air travel rule, often called the Wheelchair Rule, through April 30, 2027. The provisions on hold cover airline liability for mishandled wheelchairs, how often staff must complete refresher training, notifying passengers who check mobility devices of their rights, and reimbursing passengers forced onto a more expensive flight because their wheelchair or scooter would not fit on a cheaper one. The initial staff training mandate did take effect this summer, and a separate hands-on training requirement for flight attendants still begins Oct. 2. Officials say they are weighing a rewritten version, dubbed ‘Wheelchair Rule II,’ which will not be finalized before April 2027. Travelers who use mobility devices should continue to document damage and delays carefully and file complaints with the airline and DOT.
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