The U.S. government has fined American Airlines $50 million for failing to provide proper wheelchair assistance to passengers with disabilities and damaging over 10,760 wheelchairs between 2019 and 2023. The fine was issued by the Transportation Department, which noted that some passengers were injured, though no specific numbers were provided. American Airlines has since invested in improving wheelchair handling and will receive a $25 million credit for these improvements and compensations paid to affected passengers. 

The investigation was triggered by complaints from the Paralyzed Veterans of America and a viral video showing the mishandling of a wheelchair at Miami International Airport. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized that the mistreatment of wheelchair users extends beyond American Airlines, though no other airlines were named. 

American Airlines, which has spent over $175 million this year to enhance its services for disabled passengers, claims to have reduced wheelchair mishandling by 20%. Despite these efforts, the fine is significantly larger than previous penalties, reflecting the high number of incidents. The department highlighted the importance of federal regulations requiring airlines to return wheelchairs promptly and undamaged, with advocates pointing out that even minor delays can leave users without mobility for extended periods.