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AirTran Fined for Not Protecting Customers with Disabilities

Customers with disabilities expect to be able to safely travel in all modes of transportation, and in most cases, this expectation is met. Unfortunately, AirTran Airways has been fined for not protecting customers with disabilities. If you have a debilitating condition that prevents you from working and participating in daily tasks, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) fined AirTran Airways with a $500,000 civil penalty for violating rules concerning their customers with disabilities.

This civil penalty, however, allows AirTran to use $200,000 of it to make necessary improvements for its disabled customers. In addition, they can use $60,000 to develop a council that helps them with compliance and $140,000 to develop an automated wheelchair tracking system.

Instituted in 1986, the Air Carrier Access Act requires that all airlines provide assistance to customers who have disabilities. This includes both getting on and off an airplane. It also requires that airlines use equipment that will assist disabled customers.

Equipment that airlines may use to assist individuals with disabilities may include:

• ramps;
• wheelchairs;
• service personnel; and
• mechanical lifts.

After an investigation it was determined that AirTran had a number of complaints and violations. In addition, AirTran failed to respond to those complaints.

If you are severely disabled and unable to work, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. You should contact a Social Security disability attorney who can help you determine eligibility.

Get a FREE Social Security disability guide and avoid the common mistakes many claimants make during their application or appeal. If you or your loved is suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, contact The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. 1-888-234-5758