Paralyzed Veterans of America Access to the Skies Summit co-presented by All Wheels Up Leads the Charge to Make Air Travel Accessible

REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Leaders in air travel accessibility on Friday convened in Redmond, Wash. for Paralyzed Veterans of America's Access to the Skies Summit co-presented by All Wheels Up. The inaugural event brought together nearly a dozen nationally recognized experts in aviation accessibility and focused on breaking down barriers in air travel that 70 million Americans with disabilities experience every day. The summit featured a timely policy update, two dynamic panel discussions and tangible resources for travelers with disabilities, laying the groundwork for a future where dignity, safety and independence are guaranteed for all travelers.

"PVA's Access to the Skies Summit is more than a conversation – it's a call to action," said Robert Thomas, U.S. Army veteran and national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America. "We're not only talking about widespread challenges but also solutions that can transform air travel. By joining forces with All Wheels Up and leaders across the aviation industry, we are shaping a future where the skies truly are accessible for everyone."

The program featured a presentation from Heather Ansley, chief policy officer for PVA, who discussed ongoing efforts in Washington, D.C. to improve access to the skies. Attendees also heard from Chris Wood of Flying Disabled, Sivashankar Sivakanthan of the University of Pittsburgh's Human Engineering Research Laboratories, and Steve Cullen of All Wheels Up on recent updates from the advocacy sphere. Finally, a concluding panel focused on tangible tips to improve their air travel experience for passengers with disabilities. Panelists included Leana McDougal of American Airlines, Dana Folson of Delta Air Lines, Candace Field of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and PVA member Peter Axelson of Beneficial Designs.

"The progress we celebrated today is inspiring, and we are committed to securing an even more accessible future for travelers with disabilities," said Michele Erwin, founder and president of All Wheels Up. "We are grateful for PVA's partnership, as well as the expertise and lived experiences shared by our speakers who helped make this event such a success."

For over 40 years, PVA has led the charge to make air travel accessible for veterans and all people with disabilities. From helping secure the passage of the Air Carrier Access Act in 1986 to shaping the Department of Transportation's final rule entitled, "Ensuring Safe Accommodations for Air Travelers with Disabilities Using Wheelchairs," last year, PVA has been at the forefront of nearly every major victory in this space.

The wheelchair user rule changes ACAA regulations to improve the air travel experience for people who use wheelchairs and other assistive devices, including prompt and flexible repair or replacement options for damaged wheelchairs and annual hands-on training of airline employees and contractors who assist passengers with mobility disabilities.

To learn more about PVA's efforts to make air travel accessible, visit PVA.org/AirTravel.

About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.

Contact: Kristina Packard
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(703) 282-8121 cell

SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America