Transport Agency Orders WestJet to End Power Wheelchair Weight Ban
Canada's transport regulator ruled that WestJet discriminates against disabled passengers by capping power wheelchairs at 300 pounds. The airline must scrap the restriction by July 2027 or face ongoing compliance issues.
Canada's transport regulator has ordered WestJet to eliminate its 300-pound weight cap on power wheelchairs before July 2027, finding that the airline is imposing an "undue barrier" on passengers living with disabilities.
The Canadian Transportation Agency ruled on August 20 that the country's second-largest carrier must scrap the restriction on the vast majority of its aircraft. Until compliance is achieved, WestJet should use spreader plates to better distribute wheelchair weight in the cargo hold and arrange alternative travel with other airlines for affected passengers.
The Case
The complaint was brought by Steven Fletcher, a Winnipeg resident and former federal minister of state for transport, after he was prevented from flying with his custom wheelchair on a Winnipeg-Toronto flight in 2025. Many routes in Canada have limited airline competition — WestJet is the sole carrier on the Saskatoon-Calgary and Regina-Edmonton routes — leaving disabled passengers with few alternatives.
What This Means for You
If you are relocating to Canada with a mobility device or power wheelchair, this ruling ensures better access to domestic air travel. However, the one-year timeline means that restrictions may still apply in the near term. Always confirm wheelchair compatibility directly with airlines when booking, and consider filing accessibility complaints with the Canadian Transportation Agency if you encounter barriers.
Sources
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