Wheelchair-using Toronto woman undergoes removal from Air Canada flight

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Toronto woman who uses wheelchair carried off Air Canada flight



“Toronto Woman Advocates for Accessibility in Air Travel After Unsafe Experience”

Sub-heading: A Call for Better Access in Air Travel

Tori Lacey, a 26-year-old woman from Toronto, recently shared a video on TikTok and Instagram that sparked conversations about the challenges faced by people with disabilities when traveling by air. In the video, Lacey recounted her harrowing experience of being carried off an Air Canada plane in a badly broken aisle chair, describing it as unsafe and undignified.

Sub-heading: The Need for Systemic Change

Lacey, who has spinal muscular atrophy and relies on a customized mechanized wheelchair, had requested a jet bridge for her Air Canada Rouge flight to ensure a safe transfer off the plane. However, upon arrival in Costa Rica, she was forced to use a broken aisle chair and be carried down a flight of stairs by airport employees. The experience left her feeling terrified and vulnerable, highlighting the glaring lack of accessibility in air travel.

“I was really terrified,” Lacey shared, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and dignity of passengers with disabilities. Despite Air Canada’s assurance that protocols were followed, Lacey’s ordeal sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with special mobility needs.

Sub-heading: Advocating for Equal Access

Disability advocate Maayan Ziv emphasized the need for airlines to address the systemic barriers that passengers with disabilities encounter throughout the air travel experience. Ziv, along with other advocates, aims to hold airlines accountable for ensuring equal access and equitable experiences for all travelers.

Lacey, undeterred by her traumatic experience, remains committed to sharing positive travel content to inspire others with disabilities to explore the world. She hopes to raise awareness about the need for improved accessibility in air travel and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers.

In conclusion, Tori Lacey’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of advocating for equal access and dignity in air travel. As dialogue continues to grow around the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, it is crucial for airlines and airports to prioritize accessibility and work towards creating a more inclusive environment for all travelers. Only by recognizing and addressing these issues can we truly ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the wonders of travel without compromise.”



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