Lawsuit Filed Against Spirit Airlines After Serious Wheelchair Mishap at St. Thomas Airport

In a distressing turn of events at Cyril E. King Airport, St. Thomas, a lawsuit has been initiated against Spirit Airlines following a grave accident involving a wheelchair-bound passenger. The case, originally lodged in the V.I. Superior Court, was transferred to the District Court of the Virgin Islands this Monday. Elisha and Sylvia Frazer, the plaintiffs in this case, both of whom rely on wheelchairs for mobility, claim their transfer onto a flight to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, resulted in a catastrophic incident due to alleged negligence.

The incident occurred on December 22, 2023, when the Frazers were being assisted onto their flight. They were using a lift operated by Worldwide Flight Services, which is also a defendant in the lawsuit. The Frazers contend that the lift, visibly marked with a maximum capacity of 1000 pounds, was excessively loaded. With six individuals aboard — four wheelchair users and two attendants — the load surpassed the specified limit. During the process of aligning the lift with the aircraft door, it was discovered too late that Elisha Frazer’s wheelchair was not secured. Consequently, he suffered a horrifying fall of over 12 feet to the tarmac, resulting in severe injuries.

Elisha Frazer’s injuries are described as life-threatening, encompassing extensive physical trauma, significant medical costs, economic loss, and emotional distress, impacting his overall quality of life. The lawsuit vividly recounts the anguish of Sylvia Frazer, who witnessed her husband’s suffering. Her requests to remain beside him were initially denied by airport personnel, compelling her to board the plane. It was nearly 45 minutes later before she was permitted to exit the aircraft and reunite with her husband.

The legal action accuses Spirit Airlines and Worldwide Flight Services of gross negligence and asserts that their actions, or lack thereof, directly contributed to emotional distress for Mrs. Frazer. Among the sought-after remedies are compensatory and punitive damages, the amounts of which are to be determined by the court.

This lawsuit shines a spotlight on the critical importance of adherence to safety protocols and the need for airlines and service providers to ensure the well-being of passengers with mobility challenges.