Denied a Wheelchair, Elderly Woman Falls at Delhi Airport - Who is Responsible?

Delhi - Air travel, often seen as a gateway to convenience, turned into a nightmare for an 82-year-old woman at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Despite pre-booking a wheelchair with Air India, she was left stranded without assistance, ultimately collapsing near the airline’s premium economy counter. Today, she lies in the ICU in Bangalore, battling the consequences of a system that failed her.  

Her family, especially her granddaughter, has spoken out, questioning why no immediate first aid was given at the airport. Shockingly, after the fall, she was only provided a wheelchair to board the flight, despite visible injuries. The incident raises pressing concerns about how Indian airports and airlines treat their elderly and disabled passengers.  

Air India, in its defense, cited peak-hour demand and the passenger’s late arrival at the terminal. However, does that excuse a complete breakdown of basic service? Shouldn’t airlines prioritize pre-booked special assistance, especially for the elderly?  

This case is not an isolated one. Passengers with mobility issues frequently report delays, neglect, and lack of trained staff. While Air India expressed “empathy,” mere words are insufficient. Regulatory authorities must take decisive action, enforcing strict penalties for negligence.  

If India wants to be a global aviation hub, it must ensure that compassion and efficiency go hand in hand. Otherwise, every pre-booked service will just be an empty promise, waiting to collapse—much like this helpless passenger did.