Mumbai: With wheelchair requests skyrocketing across Indian airports—at times accounting for nearly one-third of international flight passengers—the government is set to roll out new guidelines to prevent misuse and ensure genuine cases aren’t overlooked, Hindustan Times reported.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is in the final stages of drafting a new policy, likely to be implemented by the end of May. The initiative follows rising concerns flagged by airlines, passenger advocacy groups, and airport ground staff, particularly on high-traffic routes to destinations like the US and UK.
As per the new policy framework, free wheelchair assistance may be limited to passengers aged 60 and above. Younger travellers seeking the service might be required to produce valid medical certification. Authorities are also contemplating introducing a nominal fee for passengers who don’t meet the criteria but still request mobility support.
