**Actress Sues Aer Lingus Over Damaged Wheelchair Incident**
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American actress and voice-over artist Precious Holloway has launched legal action against Aer Lingus, alleging that the airline caused significant distress by losing and damaging her motorised wheelchair during a recent flight from Los Angeles to Dublin. The distressing incident, which Holloway claims has severely impacted her quality of life, has brought to light the challenges faced by disabled travellers in navigating air travel safely and independently.
The incident occurred in September 2025, as Holloway was travelling from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Dublin Airport (DUB). According to legal documents obtained by PEOPLE, she is a person with disabilities which include lupus, asthma, and a seizure disorder, necessitating her reliance on a motorised wheelchair for mobility. Prior to her departure, Holloway had arranged for disability assistance with Aer Lingus, confirming that her Vision Sport wheelchair would be accommodated.
As per the complaint, Aer Lingus staff at LAX completed the airline’s “Battery Powered Mobility Aid” checklist for Holloway’s wheelchair prior to her flight, certifying that it was suitable for transport. However, after a lengthy ten-hour journey, Holloway was met with disappointment upon arrival in Dublin when her wheelchair was not available at the jet bridge. Instead, she was provided with an “airport transfer chair” that did not meet her mobility needs, leaving her dependent on others for assistance.
Holloway’s concerns heightened as she was informed that her wheelchair would be available at the oversized luggage carousel. After waiting for 45 minutes without any sign of her equipment, airport personnel reportedly told her that her wheelchair could not be located. Holloway found herself without independent mobility for approximately two and a half hours at the airport before her wheelchair was eventually returned to her.
Upon receiving her wheelchair, Holloway discovered it was inoperable, reportedly emitting strange noises that were absent prior to her flight. She claims that she spent 20 minutes troubleshooting the device, during which staff attempted to assist her by adjusting the manual release levers. Regrettably, even with these attempts, the wheelchair was still not functioning as intended.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Holloway expressed her frustration with the situation, highlighting the struggles faced by disabled travellers: “So many equate [wheelchairs] to just ‘luggage’ when it’s our livelihood and autonomy. I should be able to travel without fear of losing my independence at the same time.” Her struggles did not end there; upon returning home, she sought the assistance of a technician, who provided her with a repair quote of $1,146.86 due to damage sustained during the flight.
The actress attempted to secure compensation from Aer Lingus to cover the costs of repairs, transport, and related expenses. However, despite submitting her claim, Aer Lingus allegedly denied full liability and initially did not offer any compensation. This lack of support has had dire consequences for Holloway, impacting her ability to work and attend crucial medical appointments. She claims to have incurred a loss of earnings amounting to over £10,000, alongside experiencing further health complications leading to depression and seizures requiring emergency treatment.
Aer Lingus eventually provided a partial settlement of just over £2,000, yet this offer did not include claims for statutory damages, emotional distress, lost wages, or an acknowledgment of discrimination. Holloway maintains that the incident has left her life significantly diminished, adding that she now experiences anxiety related to air travel.
In response to the claims, Aer Lingus stated that they had provided mobility assistance while they located Holloway’s wheelchair and indicated a willingness to reimburse “reasonable, evidenced costs and expenses” in accordance with their policies. The airline also noted that the matter was now the subject of legal proceedings, hence refraining from making further comments.
The case, which continues to attract attention, is set to move to court on 12 June 2026, and it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those with disabilities in ensuring their rights are respected while travelling. Holloway’s experience resonates with many who have encountered similar struggles, highlighting the urgent need for airlines to improve their services for disabled passengers.
As the story unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of airlines and the treatment of disabled travellers in an industry where accessibility is paramount.