All Wheels Up (AWU): Pioneering the Future of Accessible Air Travel
All Wheels Up (AWU) is the leading non-profit organization dedicated to a singular, transformative goal: allowing travelers to remain in their own wheelchairs during commercial flights. Since 2011, AWU has been the primary advocate for "Chairs in the Air," working directly with engineers, airlines, and government regulators to make in-cabin wheelchair securement a reality.
For many families and caregivers, air travel currently involves a major logistical hurdle. Because airplanes are not yet equipped with securement spots, passengers must transfer from their personal, custom-fitted wheelchairs into standard airplane seats. This process often requires significant physical effort from both the traveler and the flight crew, and it leaves essential mobility equipment—which is often complex and highly specialized—to be stored in the cargo hold where it faces a risk of being mishandled or damaged.
Their Mission and Impact
AWU is bridging the gap between advocacy and engineering. By advocating for a designated wheelchair spot on every commercial plane, they aim to:
- Streamline Boarding: Reduce the physical strain and time required for manual transfers, making the process smoother for everyone.
- Protect Custom Equipment: Ensure that high-end wheelchairs remain with the user, preventing the costly and often devastating damage that may occur during cargo handling.
- Expand Independence: Create a more equitable and seamless travel experience for people who are dependent on wheelchairs for mobility.
Latest Research & Breakthroughs
AWU provides the technical data necessary to prove that in-cabin securement is a viable engineering reality rather than a distant dream.
- Crash Testing: They have successfully conducted crash tests and feasibility studies showing that existing wheelchair tie-down systems can meet the FAA’s strict 16.5G safety requirements.
- Federal Advocacy: AWU’s data-driven approach was a driving force behind the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, which now mandates a roadmap for implementing wheelchair spots on airplanes.
- Industry Collaboration: They lead a Global Forum that brings together major airlines, aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus, and regulators to solve the complex engineering challenges of the cabin.
How to Get Involved
Whether you are a family member, a healthcare provider, or an advocate, your voice helps move the needle:
- Join a Committee: AWU relies on volunteers for their Medical, Advocacy, and Development committees to provide professional insight and community outreach.
- Share Your Travel Experience: Personal stories are powerful tools in advocating for policy changes with airlines and government agencies.
- Academic Projects: They encourage students in engineering and therapy programs to focus on aviation accessibility for their research and internships.
How to Donate
As a grassroots organization, contributions go directly toward expensive safety testing and advocacy efforts.
- Direct Giving: You can donate via their website through PayPal, GoFundMe, or by texting FLY to 707070.
- Vehicle Donations: They accept vehicle donations to help fund ongoing research and development.
By supporting All Wheels Up, you are helping to modernize the aviation industry and ensure that the sky is truly accessible for everyone.
