A few days ago, an electric wheelchair user was getting ready to fly. She did everything right—notified the airline in advance, followed all the rules. But when she got to the airport, the airline told her, “We have no process” for her wheelchair. She didn’t stay quiet. She posted on social media, and the story spread fast.
Within days, the airline changed its stance—they responded and agreed to arrange seating for passengers who need assistance. This isn’t just one person’s problem. It’s a powerful example of what happens when people refuse to be ignored and won’t let problems slide.
She’s not alone. Kieran Watts, vice president of Australian Powerchair Hockey, was flying to a World Cup competition and was also denied boarding for his wheelchair by an airline.
Research shows almost 7 in 10 people with disabilities face discrimination when flying. It’s a systemic issue, not just one employee’s mistake.
But here’s the good news: there are examples of real accountability. Some airlines are starting to fix the problem and run Disability Equality Training taught by people with disabilities themselves. This should be the standard.
Take Singapore 🇸🇬—they have SG Enable, an organization that helps companies improve accessibility for people with disabilities. In Thailand 🇹🇭, after a major incident last year, we learned that relevant agencies are now moving to fix and prevent these problems. But most importantly, when you don’t let a problem slide, it creates a push for change.
Never forget: you have the right to access everything in this world just like anyone else. No exceptions.
Sources: EDF Human Rights Report 2025