An elderly passenger was left humiliated and distressed after being forcibly removed from an Air Canada flight due to a dispute over wheelchair assistance. The incident, which occurred on a Vancouver-bound flight, has ignited widespread criticism of the airline's handling of passengers with mobility issues.
What Happened Onboard?
According to witnesses, the elderly traveller, who relies on a wheelchair, was told by flight attendants that they could not board without a personal care assistant—despite having flown independently before. When the passenger protested, the situation escalated, leading to their removal from the aircraft.
Passenger Outrage
Fellow travellers expressed shock at the crew's heavy-handed approach, with some recording the incident on their phones. One passenger described the scene as "heartbreaking," stating that the airline failed to show basic compassion.
Air Canada's Response
In a statement, Air Canada acknowledged the incident but defended its policies, citing safety regulations. However, disability advocates argue that airlines must do more to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges without unnecessary restrictions.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about airline accessibility and the treatment of elderly and disabled passengers. Advocacy groups are calling for stricter enforcement of passenger rights and better staff training to prevent similar situations.
