Air India Cites Flight Delays as Reason Behind Wheelchair Service Lapse After Elderly Woman Falls at Delhi Airport

A troubling incident at Delhi’s international airport has led to an elderly woman’s fall after she was left waiting for a wheelchair that never arrived on time. The airline involved, Air India, explained that a backlog of flights caused a shortage of wheelchair attendants, leading to the delay that ultimately caused the elderly woman’s fall. According to Air India’s statement, the delay in wheelchair service was a direct consequence of a late flight’s arrival, which stretched the resources available for assisting passengers with special needs.

The elderly woman, who was traveling internationally, had requested a wheelchair to help her move from the plane to the terminal. However, the long wait for assistance prompted her to try and walk on her own, which led to her losing her balance and falling. Fellow passengers quickly came to her aid, and medical staff from the airport were called to the scene.

The woman was later transported to a hospital for treatment. Her condition remains unclear, but her family expressed disappointment with the airline’s response and lack of adequate assistance. Air India issued an apology, explaining that it was working to prevent future delays and to enhance its services for passengers with special needs. However, many have questioned whether these types of incidents will continue to occur due to systemic issues with the airport’s approach to managing assistance services.

This case brings attention to the challenges that elderly and disabled passengers face while traveling, particularly when their mobility needs are not addressed promptly. It also highlights the importance of proactive planning by airlines and airports to ensure that necessary services are available and that delays are minimized.