The Flight Experiences of People with Disabilities: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Using in-depth interviews, this study explores the flight experiences of people with disabilities through their own perspective, revealing the physical and social hurdles facing blind people and those who use wheelchairs and crutches. Accessibly difficulties in boarding the plane, disembarkation, and on board are reported. The findings suggest that participants are confronted with physical and social difficulties, which, for wheelchair users, result in humiliation and physical suffering. Moreover, crew members’ behavior toward people with disabilities indicates the need to train and educate airline employees. The article concludes with implications for researchers and practitioners.