China's draft airline rules represent progress for wheelchair users

Airports and airlines in China may soon be required to allow passengers with disabilities to check in wheelchairs and assist them in transferring to aircraft cabins using helpers and ramps, according to draft rules from the country's Civil Aviation Administration.

The proposal, issued to the industry for feedback, would permit nonelectric wheelchairs to be checked in at the boarding gate. Well-equipped airports would also be required to offer this service for electric wheelchair users, who often face obstacles during check-in due to regulatory restrictions.

According to the draft rules, airlines are instructed to prioritize allowing disabled passengers to board via aerobridges, where possible. Ramps must be made available to reduce height differences between the plane and boarding lifts or stairs.

These reforms would represent significant progress on existing rules, which require passengers to notify airlines of such needs 48 hours before a flight and face the possibility of being declined due to logistics concerns.

The new measures emphasize that safeguarding the air travel rights of persons with disabilities is crucial to fulfilling the principle of "aviation for the people". The administration has pledged better facilities, improved services and increased funding and staff training in preparation for the rollout of the rules, aiming to provide standardized, respectful and considerate service for those with special needs, thereby creating a barrier-free and warm travel environment.

The draft rules also mandate that airports ensure barrier-free pathways, tactile paving, lowered service counters and accessible toilets are available and fully functional. For hearing- or speech-impaired passengers, counters and cabins should be equipped with writing boards to facilitate communication.

The draft also mandates professional escort services for unaccompanied passengers with disabilities. Airlines, airports and ground service agents must incorporate disability service training into their mandatory annual courses. This training should cover relevant laws and regulations, service awareness, communication skills and the characteristics of and appropriate responses to various disabilities.

The draft specifically highlights enhanced training for security staff to improve their ability to identify assistive devices and use correct inspection methods, avoiding causing psychological discomfort to passengers with disabilities.

The new draft rules state that authorities will strengthen oversight, making compliance a key part of routine inspections and administrative checks.