China Drafts New Rules to Improve Air Travel for Disabled Passengers
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China’s civil aviation regulator has drafted new rules to improve air travel for people with disabilities, following a high-profile incident that sparked a national conversation about airport accessibility.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) circulated a draft proposal on Nov. 13 that would require airports and airlines to upgrade facilities, add assistive equipment, and streamline communication to better serve passengers with disabilities, Caixin has learned from industry sources. The regulator is seeking feedback from airlines, airports and industry associations by Friday.
The move comes after Taiwanese singer Zheng Zhihua, who has a physical disability, criticized Shenzhen’s airport in late October for its inadequate accessible facilities. He said he struggled to board his flight because a 20-centimeter height difference between the boarding vehicle and the aircraft door prevented his wheelchair from entering.
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- China’s aviation regulator drafted new rules to enhance air travel accessibility for people with disabilities after a widely-publicized complaint by singer Zheng Zhihua.
- The proposal includes facility upgrades, portable boarding ramps, onboard narrow wheelchairs, improved communication systems, and mandatory staff training.
- Airports and airlines must solicit feedback and increase supervision, with stricter enforcement of accessibility standards and faster responses to complaints.
- Late October 2025：
- Taiwanese singer Zheng Zhihua, who has a physical disability, criticized Shenzhen’s airport for inadequate accessible facilities after struggling to board his flight.
- After Late October 2025：
- Shenzhen’s airport apologized and explained the reason for the boarding vehicle–aircraft gap.
- Nov. 13, 2025：
- The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) circulated a draft proposal to require improved accessibility measures in airports.
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