Travelers with mobility needs now have a clearer picture of which airlines truly deliver on accessibility. A new study released by InsureMyTrip, using Department of Transportation data, ranks JetBlue as the number one U.S. airline for wheelchair accessibility in 2025. Here’s what wheelchair users and travelers with mobility devices need to know before booking their next flight.
JetBlue Rises to the Top for Wheelchair Access
JetBlue achieved the highest approval rating in the study, with a remarkable 97 percent positive sentiment among survey respondents. In 2024, JetBlue safely enplaned 29,147 wheelchairs and mobility devices—more than any other major airline. The carrier’s consistent performance and customer satisfaction secured its place as the top choice for passengers traveling with mobility aids.
Delta and Alaska Also Score Well
Delta Air Lines followed closely behind, earning praise for the lowest rate of mishandled wheelchairs in the industry. Delta has also announced a forward-thinking project: a new aircraft seat design that could allow wheelchair users to remain in their own chair during the flight. Alaska Airlines rounded out the top three, making them strong alternatives for accessible travel in the U.S.
Which Airlines Fall Short?
Frontier Airlines ranked lowest in the study, with the highest percentage of negative reviews and mishandled wheelchair incidents. American Airlines and Spirit Airlines also landed at the bottom of the list, with American fined $50 million by the Department of Transportation in 2024 over its handling of wheelchair-related complaints.
Key Findings: Wheelchair Access in U.S. Air Travel
- JetBlue leads for reliability, service, and positive customer sentiment.
- Delta stands out for minimizing mishandled devices and innovative design efforts.
- Alaska Airlines offers consistent, traveler-approved accessibility.
- Frontier, American, and Spirit are the most frequently cited for accessibility issues and negative experiences.
- Over five million Americans rely on wheelchairs or mobility devices while traveling each year, making reliable service essential.
New DOT Rules and What They Mean for Travelers
As of December 2024, updated Department of Transportation rules require airlines to maintain stricter standards for accommodating passengers with wheelchairs. Airlines must now compensate travelers for any damage to their mobility devices, a critical change for a community whose wheelchairs can cost thousands of dollars and are often custom-fitted. However, several airlines are challenging these new requirements in court, claiming regulatory overreach.
What to Consider When Booking
- Check airline policies on mobility device handling and storage before booking.
- Contact the airline’s accessibility services to arrange support and ensure your needs will be met.
- Review DOT reports and customer feedback to identify carriers with positive accessibility records.
- Document the condition of your device before your flight in case of damage claims.
The Bottom Line
While U.S. air travel accessibility remains uneven, JetBlue, Delta, and Alaska currently offer the most reliable service for wheelchair users. As new federal rules roll out and airlines update their practices, travelers with mobility needs should see continued improvement—but choosing the right carrier can still make all the difference for a smooth journey.
