Mumbai, February 16, 2024:In the aftermath of a tragic incident at Mumbai Airport where a passenger collapsed and died, allegedly due to a shortage of wheelchairs, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a Show Cause Notice to Air India for non-compliance with the Aircraft Rules, 1937.
The incident occurred on February 12th when a passenger traveling from New York to Mumbai fell ill while proceeding to clear immigration with his wife, who was in a wheelchair. According to a spokesperson for Air India, due to a high demand for wheelchairs, the airline had requested the passenger to wait until wheelchair assistance could be provided. However, the passenger opted to walk alongside his spouse.
Following the unfortunate incident, the airport doctor attended to the passenger, and he was immediately rushed to the hospital. Despite the efforts, the passenger was declared deceased upon arrival at the medical facility.
In response to the incident, DGCA has taken a serious stance, issuing a Show Cause Notice to Air India and directing the airline to respond within seven days. Airlines are obligated to provide assistance to persons with disabilities or Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) as per the regulations, ensuring a seamless travel experience from the departure terminal to the aircraft and vice versa.
Furthermore, DGCA has issued an advisory to all airlines, emphasizing the need to ensure an adequate number of wheelchairs are available to passengers requiring assistance during embarkation and disembarkation.
Air India, in its defense, highlighted the heavy demand for wheelchairs and the advice from the airport doctor attending to the passenger after falling ill. The airline maintains that the passenger was promptly rushed to the hospital but, unfortunately, could not be saved.
The incident has sparked concerns about the accessibility and assistance provided to passengers with reduced mobility. It brings attention to the broader issue of ensuring the safety and well-being of all passengers, particularly those requiring special assistance. As the investigation unfolds, both the airline and aviation authorities are under scrutiny to address and rectify any lapses in compliance with regulations, ensuring the safety and comfort of all air travelers.
