Accessible Commercial Airline Travel for Mobility Device Users: A Focus Group Study with Veterans

This study aimed to identify the needs of mobility device users (MDUs) to pursue accessible airline travel at every stage of the journey, from trip planning to departure to arrival at the destination airport. Semi-structured focus groups were conducted with MDUs ( n = 13) and their caregivers ( n = 7). Descriptive statistics were used for demographic information, and a qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the transcribed interviews and extract themes. Three overarching themes were identified: service, accessibility, and safety. Sub-themes related to service encompassed booking concerns, disconnected services, untrained airport staff, and damaged mobility devices. Accessibility sub-themes included the in-cabin aisle, in-cabin toilet, and airport infrastructure. Safety sub-themes encompassed aisle chairs and passenger seats. This study has uncovered challenges, particularly in relation to booking concerns, disconnected services, untrained airport staff, and airport infrastructure. To address these challenges, potential solutions are suggested, including staff education, installation of in-cabin accessible toilets and versatile seats, modification of wheelchairs and aisle chairs, and improvements to accessible airport infrastructure. We anticipate that the findings will provide insights into the redesign of aircraft, airports, wheelchairs, and aisle chairs as well as inform the development of legislation and guidelines.