Congressman Cohen Applauds Transportation Department Response to Mistreatment of Air Travelers with Disabilities

MEMPHIS - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), the Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, today applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT's) $50 million fine against American Airlines for its mistreatment of air travelers who use wheelchairs.

Congressman Cohen introduced the Mobility Aids on Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act in 2023 and was pleased to see parts of the legislation included in a proposed DOT rule in February and codified in the FAA Reauthorization Act in May. Congressman Cohen joined members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee last December in writing a letter to Airlines for America (A4A)expressing their dismay over the continued mistreatment of passenger wheelchairs and scooters that had come to light after video of such misuse at Miami International Airport surfaced in the news media.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

"I applaud DOT's and Secretary Buttigieg's righteous stand against the senseless mistreatment of mobility devices by airline and airport personnel. Today's serious penalty shows that federal officials are aware of and taking seriously the damage done to what are often the only means for some air passengers to get around. This is yet another example of the DOT listening to Congress and looking out for the vulnerable as we attempt to make air travel safer and more convenient for all."

# # #