Illinois woman sues American Airlines over wheelchair mishandling after Paris flight

Upon arrival in Chicago, Brickl’s wheelchair was sent directly to baggage claim rather than being delivered at the aircraft door. Brickl refused to leave the plane until her wheelchair was returned, citing federally protected rights. She remained on board for over an hour while staff located her mobility device. During this time, she says she had to explain her rights under federal law to cabin crew members.

American Airlines offered Brickl a $75 travel voucher as compensation. According to Paddle Your Own Kanoo, Brickl described this offer as "grossly inadequate in insulting." She later filed a complaint with the United States Department of Transportation seeking immediate assistance from a Complaint Resolution Officer.

In its response through external legal counsel, American Airlines stated that it is common practice for heavier wheelchairs to be diverted to baggage claim—a process that can violate federal regulations regarding mobility devices. The lawsuit argues that these actions caused bodily injury including physical and emotional distress.

The case references the Montreal Convention, an international treaty established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) which sets rules on airline liability for passenger injuries or death during international flights. As of 2025, 141 parties participate in the convention worldwide. Under its terms, airlines are responsible for damages up to approximately $219,000 without requiring families to prove fault; above this amount airlines can only avoid liability by proving they were not negligent.

The compensation limit also applies specifically to delayed or damaged mobility equipment such as wheelchairs—devices whose value often exceeds standard reimbursement caps and whose loss can have significant psychological effects on passengers.

"physical and physiological burden and fatigue, time compression and disruption of medical routines, and risk to pre-arranged disability accommodations," said Kelsey Brickl's claim.

"grossly inadequate in insulting," said Kelsey Brickl about American Airlines' compensation offer.