Originally Posted by
notquiteaff
if they are not trained to safely and securely load such items, they should not do it.
United is apparently required to transport such items.
So United should train their employees/contractors appropriately.
Yes, they should. We aren't talking about a bag or something here where it's inconvenient if it's lost. A disabled person not having their wheelchair is like taking a person's legs and independence away. Also, in many cases, the wheelchairs are custom fitted so a loaner won't work. It's a case of dignity and health.
There are many delays related to getting a wheelchair on-board too. If they had suitable equipment and training, those delays would go away. A better experience for all involved. Disabled PAX don't need to worry about their chairs being destroyed (I usually look out the window to see how it's being handled), other PAX not delayed when baggage agents don't know how to load a chair, the airline not needing to pay for replacement or repairs.