JetBlue Airways has been recognized as the leading airline for wheelchair accessibility in 2025, outshining its competitors in a new industry ranking. This recognition comes from a recent study by InsureMyTrip, which assessed U.S. airlines using data from the Air Travel Consumer Report by the Department of Transportation, focusing on the handling of wheelchairs and mobility devices.
The study revealed that JetBlue received the highest approval rating among wheelchair users, with a remarkable 97 percent positive sentiment. In 2024 alone, JetBlue successfully enplaned 29,147 wheelchairs and other mobility devices, setting a new standard for accessibility in air travel.
Delta Air Lines also received high marks, notably for maintaining the lowest percentage of mishandled wheelchairs. Delta is currently developing a new seat design that will allow travelers to remain in their own wheelchairs during flights, further enhancing its reputation for accessibility. Alaska Airlines was ranked third for its efforts in accommodating passengers with mobility needs.
On the other end of the spectrum, Frontier Airlines was rated lowest in terms of wheelchair accessibility, earning the highest percentage of negative feedback and one-star reviews mentioning wheelchairs. American Airlines and Spirit Airlines were also highlighted for poor performance in this area. Notably, American Airlines faced a $50 million fine in 2024 for its mishandling of travelers using wheelchairs.
With over five million Americans relying on wheelchairs while traveling and the high cost of mobility devices, choosing the right airline is crucial. “Air travel should be accessible for everyone, but that’s far from the reality. We hope this study shines a light on which airlines are getting it right and which have room for improvement — so wheelchair users can make an informed decision when booking a flight,” said Sara Boisvert, director of marketing at InsureMyTrip.
New federal regulations introduced in December require airlines to adhere to stricter standards for accommodating passengers with wheelchairs. Airlines must now compensate travelers for any damage to their mobility devices. However, several U.S. airlines are challenging these rules in court, arguing that they represent regulatory overreach.
