The family of Hunter Adkins, a disabled passenger, is suing Allegiant Air, claiming the airline’s failure to follow safety protocols led to his tragic death. Adkins, who suffered from muscular dystrophy, fell from an unsecured wheelchair during boarding, resulting in fatal injuries.
The Incident
Hunter Adkins, 24, was trying to board a flight at Huntington Tri-State Airport in West Virginia on March 28, 2024, with his father and 9-year-old brother. According to the lawsuit, the captain of the flight ordered staff to hurry up and board passengers quickly, leading to a rush.
In the rush to get everyone on board, Adkins did not receive the federally required extra assistance or a special narrow wheelchair to help him board safely. As an attendant tried to push Adkins through the plane’s entry door, his motorized wheelchair toppled, and he fell face-first to the ground. His chair crashed on top of him in front of his father and younger brother.
The Aftermath
Adkins was unable to break his fall due to his physical condition, and he suffered serious injuries. He later died in the hospital from blunt force trauma 15 hours after the incident.
The lawsuit alleges that Allegiant Air violated federal regulations by not providing Adkins with at least two attendants. Instead, he was assigned just one after staff were reassigned to load luggage in an effort to quickly get the flight off the ground.
Alleged Negligence and Safety Failures
The family’s lawsuit claims that the crew neglected to provide a special wheelchair with safety straps designed for safe boarding and deplaning. Despite witnessing the improper handling of Adkins’ wheelchair, crew members did nothing to ensure his safety during the boarding process, the lawsuit states.
The wrongful death suit seeks a jury trial and damages over $15,000.
Allegiant Air’s Response
Allegiant Air issued a statement expressing sympathy for the family but declined to comment on the ongoing lawsuit. “While we cannot comment on pending litigation, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking situation,” said a company spokesperson.
