The ALS Association Helps Secure Easier Air Travel and Benefits for People Living With ALS

May 10, 2024 (Arlington, VA) - The ALS Association applauds the Senate for reauthorizing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) legislation mandating improved accessibility in airline travel. The bill includes key provisions that mean that all people with disabilities who rely on wheelchairs for mobility—including those living with ALS—can travel safely and confidently.

People living with ALS often encounter serious issues when traveling by air, including personal injury, wheelchair damage, and discriminatory treatment. The ALS Association played a crucial role in advocating for the passage of this legislation, recognizing the importance of accessible travel for individuals living with ALS.

“Clinical trials and specialized treatments offer a glimmer of hope for those of us battling ALS, but accessing them often feels daunting, especially as mobility declines. As someone living with ALS, this legislation is not just about improving accessibility, it's about extending lives for people like me,” said Larry Falivena, board member for the ALS Association.

The Senate recently passed an amended version of the bipartisan bill which included crucial provisions including comprehensive training on properly handling motor wheelchairs during boarding, ensuring appropriate seating arrangements for passengers with disabilities, provisions for reserving onboard wheelchairs to facilitate mobility, and improving evacuation procedures to prioritize the safety of passengers with disabilities.