News
September 08, 2025
easyJet apologises as schoolboy's wheelchair battery confiscated on flight
Anthony has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive genetic disorder causing muscle weakness, that leaves him unable to walk
**easyJet Apologises After Wheelchair Battery Confiscated, Leaving Schoolboy Stranded**
Budget airline easyJet has issued an apology after confiscating the battery from a young schoolboy's electric wheelchair, leaving him stranded upon arrival. Anthony, who suffers from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a debilitating condition that severely weakens his muscles and prevents him from walking, was traveling with his family when the incident occurred.
The family had meticulously planned their journey, ensuring they adhered to all of easyJet's guidelines regarding the transportation of electric wheelchairs and their batteries. They understood the importance of informing the airline in advance and providing detailed specifications of the battery type.
However, upon boarding, airline staff raised concerns about the battery, citing safety regulations. Despite the family's attempts to explain that the battery was essential for Anthony's mobility and that it complied with all necessary safety standards, the crew insisted on its removal and storage in the aircraft hold.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive genetic disorder that gradually robs individuals of their muscle strength. For Anthony, his electric wheelchair is not merely a convenience; it is his lifeline, enabling him to participate in everyday activities and maintain a degree of independence.
The confiscation of the battery meant that Anthony was unable to independently move around after the flight landed. The family faced significant difficulties navigating the airport and reaching their destination, relying on assistance from airport staff and facing considerable delays.
The situation has sparked outrage among disability advocates, who argue that airlines need to be more sensitive and better informed about the needs of passengers with disabilities. They point out that electric wheelchairs are essential mobility aids, and airlines should prioritize ensuring their safe and efficient transport.
easyJet has acknowledged the incident and expressed their sincere apologies to Anthony and his family. They have stated that they are investigating the matter internally to understand why the battery was confiscated despite the family's compliance with regulations. The airline has also pledged to review its policies and training procedures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, reaffirming their commitment to providing a safe and inclusive travel experience for all passengers, regardless of their disability. The airline is in direct contact with the family to offer further support.
Budget airline easyJet has issued an apology after confiscating the battery from a young schoolboy's electric wheelchair, leaving him stranded upon arrival. Anthony, who suffers from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a debilitating condition that severely weakens his muscles and prevents him from walking, was traveling with his family when the incident occurred.
The family had meticulously planned their journey, ensuring they adhered to all of easyJet's guidelines regarding the transportation of electric wheelchairs and their batteries. They understood the importance of informing the airline in advance and providing detailed specifications of the battery type.
However, upon boarding, airline staff raised concerns about the battery, citing safety regulations. Despite the family's attempts to explain that the battery was essential for Anthony's mobility and that it complied with all necessary safety standards, the crew insisted on its removal and storage in the aircraft hold.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive genetic disorder that gradually robs individuals of their muscle strength. For Anthony, his electric wheelchair is not merely a convenience; it is his lifeline, enabling him to participate in everyday activities and maintain a degree of independence.
The confiscation of the battery meant that Anthony was unable to independently move around after the flight landed. The family faced significant difficulties navigating the airport and reaching their destination, relying on assistance from airport staff and facing considerable delays.
The situation has sparked outrage among disability advocates, who argue that airlines need to be more sensitive and better informed about the needs of passengers with disabilities. They point out that electric wheelchairs are essential mobility aids, and airlines should prioritize ensuring their safe and efficient transport.
easyJet has acknowledged the incident and expressed their sincere apologies to Anthony and his family. They have stated that they are investigating the matter internally to understand why the battery was confiscated despite the family's compliance with regulations. The airline has also pledged to review its policies and training procedures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, reaffirming their commitment to providing a safe and inclusive travel experience for all passengers, regardless of their disability. The airline is in direct contact with the family to offer further support.
Category:
Politics