In a significant legal development, a Louisiana resident has filed a lawsuit against the public entity responsible for the New Orleans Lakefront Airport, alleging violations of disability rights. The complaint was lodged by Thaddeus Hardy on December 23, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, targeting Lakefront Management Authority and its Executive Director, Louis J. Capo.
Thaddeus Hardy, who is paraplegic and requires a wheelchair for mobility, claims that his rights under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act have been violated due to architectural barriers at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport. According to Hardy's account, during a visit on October 28, 2024, he faced significant challenges accessing certain areas of the airport while attempting to participate in a helicopter tour with his daughter. Specifically, he discovered there was no accessible route from the terminal to the hangar where helicopters were stationed. Despite emailing a request for reasonable accommodation to Mr. Capo and Chris Hyer on November 14, 2024, Hardy received no response or action regarding his concerns.
The lawsuit highlights multiple instances where Hardy encountered barriers that prevented him from enjoying equal access to services offered at the airport. The plaintiff argues that these barriers constitute discrimination under federal law as they deny him full participation in programs and activities available to non-disabled individuals. Citing deliberate indifference by the defendants in addressing these issues despite being made aware of them, Hardy seeks both injunctive relief and compensatory damages.
Hardy’s legal representation is pursuing several forms of relief through this litigation. They are asking for declaratory judgments affirming that the defendants are in violation of ADA and Rehabilitation Act provisions. Additionally, they seek permanent injunctive relief mandating alterations to make all facilities accessible as required by law. Furthermore, Hardy demands monetary compensation for damages incurred due to discriminatory practices alongside reimbursement for attorney fees and related litigation expenses.
Representing Thaddeus Hardy are attorneys Andrew D. Bizer, Garret S. DeReus, and Eva M. Kalikoff from Bizer & DeReus LLC based in New Orleans. The case is identified under Case No: 2:24-cv-02932 but does not yet list an assigned judge or magistrate judge.