WestJet faces criticism from Canada’s transport regulator for creating obstacles for travelers with disabilities by limiting certain power wheelchairs from its aircraft. The Canadian Transportation Agency has ordered WestJet to eliminate its 136-kilogram weight restriction on mobility aids by July 2027. Until then, the airline is advised to use “spreader plates” to evenly distribute the wheelchair’s weight in the cargo hold and arrange alternate travel options with other airlines.
The issue was raised by Winnipeg resident Steven Fletcher, a former minister, after WestJet prevented him from flying with his custom wheelchair last year. Advocates argue that the weight limit has hindered air travel in some regions and unfairly targeted individuals with disabilities.
Fletcher criticized WestJet for excluding a segment of Canadians due to an arbitrary weight limit. The airline has been urged to proactively accommodate power wheelchairs, as they have done in the past for decades.
WestJet has refrained from commenting on the ongoing matter with the regulator. The Canadian Transportation Agency is expected to make a final ruling on the notice period required for passengers using mobility aids to inform the airline.
Last year, WestJet defended the weight limit citing flight safety concerns and compliance with accessibility regulations. The company established the 136-kilogram threshold after a technical evaluation of cargo hold weight limits on its Boeing aircraft.
Advocates argue that the stringent weight limit severely restricts mobility for wheelchair users, especially when compared to other airlines with more lenient restrictions. Instances like Fletcher having to switch wheelchairs during a trip due to weight issues have highlighted the impact on individuals.
Furthermore, the policy of restricting power wheelchairs is seen as problematic by advocates, especially given that other major North American airlines do not maintain such low weight caps for similar-sized planes. Flair Airlines, based in British Columbia, also enforces a weight limit on its Boeing 737 jets for safety reasons.
The issue of airline policies affecting travelers with disabilities has been a subject of discussion, with efforts to enhance air travel safety and accessibility. American Airlines faced a similar situation in 2020, prompting a revision of its restrictions following advocacy efforts.
Advocates emphasize the importance of ensuring equal access to air travel for individuals with disabilities, as limited options on certain routes can pose significant challenges. Fletcher underlines that the ability to travel within one’s own country is a fundamental right and not merely a convenience.
