Elderly Woman Falls at Airport Due to Wheelchair Delay, Air India Cites Late Arrival

Days after an 82-year-old woman fell at Delhi airport due to a delay in wheelchair assistance, Air India acknowledged the delay but denied any negligence. The airline stated that the family had arrived late for departure, dismissing claims of an hour-long wait for assistance.

The woman’s granddaughter, Parul Kanwar, had accused the airline of mishandling the situation in a post on X. The passenger, Raj Pasricha, is now in the ICU under observation for potential brain bleeds.

Air India’s Response

Air India, in a detailed statement, expressed its wishes for the woman’s swift recovery and provided its findings on the incident. The airline clarified that the family arrived at the airport later than the recommended two-hour pre-departure time.

“Family members/relatives accompanying the passenger had reported at the PRM (Person with Reduced Mobility) desk located near Air India’s ticketing office less than 90 minutes before the scheduled time of departure to request for a wheelchair,” an Air India spokesperson stated.

Due to “unprecedented peak demand,” the airline was unable to provide a wheelchair within 15 minutes. However, it refuted the claim that the family waited for an hour, calling it “baseless.”

Incident and Medical Response

As per Air India, the passengers decided to proceed on foot towards the aircraft, during which the elderly woman fell inside the airport premises. The airline said an on-duty doctor and officials promptly provided first aid. The family, however, declined further medical assistance and chose to continue their journey to Bengaluru.

“Through this process, Air India staff were courteous, escorted them from immediate check-in through to priority security check and boarding. The passenger was also provided all possible care during the flight from Delhi to Bengaluru,” the airline stated.

Upon arrival in Bengaluru, Air India staff assisted the woman in receiving further medical attention and escorted her to the drop-off point. The airline maintained that at no point was wheelchair assistance or any other support denied.

Family’s Allegations

The airline’s statement came after Parul Kanwar, in a viral post, accused Air India of neglecting her grandmother’s safety. She shared photos of her in the ICU and criticized the airline for showing “little value for human life and wellbeing.”

The incident has raised concerns about airline assistance for elderly and disabled passengers, prompting discussions on the efficiency of airport services.