82-Year-Old Woman Falls After Being Denied Wheelchair by Air India

New Delhi: An 82-year-old woman is in the ICU under observation for potential brain bleeds after a harrowing experience at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The elderly passenger, the widow of a decorated Lieutenant General, fell near an Air India counter after she was allegedly denied a pre-booked wheelchair. The incident has sparked outrage, with the airline facing severe criticism for its handling of the situation.

The woman, who had booked wheelchair assistance in advance, was left waiting for over an hour upon arrival at the airport. With no assistance in sight, she attempted to walk a significant distance with the help of a family member. However, exhaustion took its toll, and she collapsed near an Air India counter.

Her granddaughter, who took to social media to highlight the ordeal, alleged that no immediate medical aid was provided by the airline. When a wheelchair finally arrived, the elderly woman was already injured, bleeding from her lips, head, and nose. Despite her injuries, she was reportedly made to board the aircraft without proper medical attention.

After landing at her destination, the woman’s condition worsened. She was admitted to the ICU, where doctors are monitoring her for potential brain bleeds. Her granddaughter stated that the left side of her body is showing signs of weakness, adding to the family’s distress.

“The airline showed complete negligence. She waited for assistance that never came, fell, bled, and was still made to board the flight without even basic first aid,” the granddaughter alleged.

Following the backlash, Air India released a statement expressing concern over the incident. The airline stated that it was “actively working on the concern” and wished the elderly passenger a speedy recovery. However, it did not directly address why the pre-booked wheelchair was not provided in time.

This incident has raised fresh concerns over the treatment of elderly and disabled passengers by airlines. Many have called for stricter enforcement of passenger rights and improved accessibility services at Indian airports.