WestJet has been criticized by Canada’s transport regulator for creating obstacles for travelers with disabilities by restricting certain power wheelchairs from being accommodated on its aircraft. The Canadian Transportation Agency has ruled that WestJet must remove its 136-kilogram (300-pound) weight limit on mobility aids by July 2027.
In response to a complaint filed by Winnipeg resident Steven Fletcher, a former federal minister of state for transport, the agency recommended that WestJet use “spreader plates” to evenly distribute the weight of wheelchairs in the cargo hold. Until the weight cap is eliminated, alternative travel arrangements should be made with other airlines.
Fletcher, along with other advocates, has raised concerns that the weight restriction has hindered air travel for individuals with disabilities and has led to discrimination. He emphasized that the weight limit imposed by WestJet has marginalized a significant portion of the Canadian population without valid justification.
WestJet has refrained from commenting on the matter as it is still under regulatory review. The agency is set to issue a final determination on the notice period required for passengers using mobility aids to inform the airline before their flights.
Last year, WestJet argued that the weight limit was crucial for flight safety, citing accessibility regulations that allow the refusal of heavier mobility aids. The company established the 136-kilogram threshold in 2024 following a technical evaluation of the cargo holds on its Boeing aircraft.
Advocates argue that the weight cap severely restricts mobility for individuals who rely on power wheelchairs as an extension of their bodies, especially when compared to more lenient restrictions imposed by other airlines. Instances like Fletcher’s experience of being forced to use a different wheelchair during travel due to the weight limit have highlighted the negative impact on passengers.
The debate over reasonable accommodation for power wheelchair users has drawn attention to discrepancies among airlines, with some justifying weight limits based on safety concerns and regulations. The issue has underscored the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing air travel services.
Advocates have criticized WestJet and Flair Airlines for maintaining low weight caps on their Boeing 737 jets, which constitute a significant portion of their fleets. While safety and secure stowage are cited as reasons for the policy, concerns remain about the limitations it imposes on travelers with disabilities.
Efforts to improve air travel accessibility for individuals with disabilities have been ongoing, with airlines pledging to enhance services and address concerns raised by advocacy groups. The need for inclusive and accommodating policies that prioritize the mobility and well-being of all passengers has been emphasized by advocates and affected individuals alike.