Centre to issue notice to Air India for non-availability of wheelchair to 82-yr-old
The Centre is taking stern actions against Air India for its failure to provide a pre-booked wheelchair to an 82-year-old woman at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, informed the Rajya Sabha on Monday that the ministry is investigating the incident and will soon issue a show-cause notice to the airline.
The elderly woman, who was traveling from Delhi to Mumbai, had booked the wheelchair in advance through Air India’s website. However, when she arrived at the airport, she was left stranded without the necessary assistance, causing immense distress and discomfort.
The incident has sparked outrage among passengers and disability rights activists, who have been calling for better facilities and services for people with disabilities in the aviation industry. The Centre’s decision to issue a show-cause notice to Air India is a significant step towards addressing these concerns.
According to Naidu, the aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has also spoken to the passenger’s family to understand the matter further. The minister assured the Rajya Sabha that the ministry will take all necessary steps to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
The incident has raised questions about Air India’s commitment to providing accessible services to passengers with disabilities. The airline has a responsibility to ensure that its facilities and services are accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities. Failure to do so can have serious consequences, including denying passengers with disabilities the opportunity to travel and participate in economic and social activities.
The Centre’s decision to issue a show-cause notice to Air India is a clear indication that it will not tolerate any compromises on accessibility and inclusive services in the aviation industry. The move is likely to send a strong message to all airlines operating in the country, including private carriers, to prioritize accessibility and inclusive services.
The incident also highlights the need for greater awareness and sensitization among airport staff and airline employees about the needs and requirements of passengers with disabilities. It is essential that airport staff and airline employees are trained to provide assistance and support to passengers with disabilities, and that they are equipped with the necessary tools and resources to do so.
The Centre’s decision to issue a show-cause notice to Air India is a significant step towards promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the aviation industry. It is a clear indication that the government is committed to ensuring that all passengers, including those with disabilities, have access to equal and accessible services.
The incident also underscores the importance of robust regulations and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that airlines comply with accessibility standards. The DGCA has a crucial role to play in ensuring that airlines comply with accessibility standards and that passengers with disabilities receive the assistance and support they need.
In conclusion, the Centre’s decision to issue a show-cause notice to Air India for non-availability of a wheelchair to an 82-year-old woman is a significant step towards promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the aviation industry. The incident highlights the need for greater awareness and sensitization among airport staff and airline employees about the needs and requirements of passengers with disabilities. The Centre’s commitment to ensuring accessibility and inclusive services is crucial for promoting equal opportunities and participation for all passengers, including those with disabilities.
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