Corrections
I note that "severe mobility impairment" applies in the context of access to some commuter aircraft. Still, the question of WHO is entitled to wheelchair assistance remains relevant. Do the airlines have a "blank check" on this question? Or, does the DOT have specific criteria?
Another strategy Delta, or any other airline, might use to evade their responsibility is to lie and say they were never advised wheel chair assistance would be needed. Accordingly, when time permits, a letter, sent to the airline, prior to the trip, by certified mail return receipt requested would provide documentation of notification. Along with the request for wheel chair service, a copy of one's receipt for the ticket purchase should be enclosed. If the airline then ignores the request, a copy of this request, with photocopies of the signed return receipt, should be mailed, with a complaint letter, to the DOT. In ALL cases a request for wheel chair service should be requested for notation on the reservation record if that's possible.
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