Poland’s national airline, LOT, is facing backlash after a troubling incident involving BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, who was forced to crawl on the floor of an aircraft to reach the toilet due to the absence of a wheelchair on board. This incident highlights ongoing challenges related to accessibility in air travel, particularly for passengers with disabilities.
Gardner, who has used a wheelchair since he was left partially paralyzed after being shot by al-Qaida gunmen while reporting in Saudi Arabia in 2004, expressed his frustration on social media. “Wow. It’s 2024 and I’ve just had to crawl along the floor of this LOT Polish airline to get to the toilet during a flight back from Warsaw as ‘we don’t have onboard wheelchairs. It’s airline policy,’” he tweeted. His message resonated with many, sparking discussions on the inadequacies of services for disabled travelers.
In a subsequent tweet, Gardner acknowledged the efforts of the cabin crew, noting that they were helpful and apologetic despite the circumstances. “Won’t be flying LOT again until they join the 21st century,” he added, emphasizing the need for airlines to prioritize accessibility. He pointed out that other airlines he has flown with in recent years provide foldable wheelchairs that can be stored in overhead compartments, making it easier for disabled passengers to navigate the aircraft.
The situation has drawn attention not only to LOT but also to broader accessibility issues within Poland. In a 2021 report, the country’s infrastructure ministry revealed that only 29 out of 526 railway stations—about 5.5%—were fully adapted for disabled individuals. This highlights the systemic challenges faced by those with disabilities in Poland, where progress in accessibility has been slow.
In response to Gardner’s social media posts, which garnered significant media coverage and public criticism, LOT Airlines issued a formal apology. “We are very sorry for the experience that Mr. Frank Gardner had during his last flight with us,” the airline stated. They acknowledged the discomfort caused by the lack of a wheelchair, clarifying that while such amenities are available on long-haul flights, they are not yet implemented on short-haul aircraft.
The airline further emphasized their commitment to improving accessibility: “We understand how important accessibility is and are currently actively testing solutions to soon equip short-haul aircraft with wheelchairs for on-board mobility. We make every effort to ensure a comfortable and dignified journey for all passengers.”
As Gardner prepares for future journeys, his experience underscores the importance of systemic change in the airline industry, echoing a broader call for improved accessibility not just in Poland, but worldwide. The hope is that with continued advocacy and awareness, future travelers will not have to face the same challenges, and that flying will become a more inclusive experience for everyone.
