A disabled traveller was left “housebound” for months after their £2,700 wheelchair was broken on an Aer Lingus flight, leaving them to deplete their savings on taxis and food deliveries. Winter Mraz, who suffers from Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and Fibromyalgia, cannot walk more than a few feet without pain. The wheelchair was damaged during a flight from Phoenix, Arizona, to Manchester. Despite initial refusal by Aer Lingus to offer compensation due to a reporting delay, the airline has now agreed to cover the cost of a new chair.
Winter described their struggle living without a functional wheelchair, fearing it would collapse and incurring additional expenses for transport and deliveries. To assist with the financial burden, Winter’s friend Dana Andersen launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe, which has received significant support from donors, including a generous anonymous contribution of £1,000. Winter expressed gratitude for the assistance to cover losses and urged for a change in airline policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The ordeal has taken a toll on Winter’s mental health, affecting their independence and causing significant financial strain. The prolonged delay in resolution added to their stress and restricted mobility, impacting daily activities and social engagements. Despite the challenges faced, Winter remains determined to reclaim their independence and is grateful for the support received during this difficult time.
Aer Lingus issued an apology for the damage caused to Winter’s wheelchair and acknowledged the distress experienced. The airline’s policy requires customers to report any damage within seven days of travel, which posed a challenge in this case. While the situation was ultimately resolved with the offer to cover the cost of a replacement chair, Winter highlighted the need for improved policies and better support for travellers with disabilities in similar situations.