Airlines

USDOT Mandates Enhanced Lavatory Accessibility: Airlines to Expand Lavatories for Dual Occupancy

Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a new rule requiring more accessible lavatories in airplanes. This rulemaking, which was permitted by the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), would compel airlines to equip new single-aisle aircraft with restrooms that are sufficiently roomy for a passenger with a disability and an attendant who are both the size of a 95th percentile male to approach, enter, and move around as needed to use the restroom.

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The U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “travelling can be stressful enough without worrying about being able to use the lavatory; yet today, millions of wheelchair users are forced to choose between dehydrating themselves prior to boarding a plane or avoiding air travel altogether.” “We are proud to announce this rule that will increase the size and accessibility of airplane restrooms, ensuring that wheelchair users are given the same access and dignity as the rest of the traveling public.”

The announcement made today expands on significant infrastructure accessibility investments made by the Biden-Harris Administration, including: Through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the DOT has given billions of dollars to modernize airport terminals, including the installation of wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities among other improvements.

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Through its All Stations Accessibility Programme, the DOT awarded over $700 million last December to upgrade aging rail and subway stations with lifts, ramps and other upgrades. The programme, which is supported by the infrastructure law, aims to make transit rail stations more accessible so that everyone, including those who use wheelchairs, push strollers, or find it difficult to climb stairs, may dependably access the rail systems in their communities.

For the potential future rule that would handle passengers using their own wheelchairs when they fly, the DOT has started laying the framework. The Department of Transportation is reportedly developing regulations that would mandate better training for airline employees who physically help passengers with disabilities or deal with battery-operated wheelchairs or scooters.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.