The UK government has committed to implementing stronger protections for disabled passengers using air travel, following recommendations outlined in a previous review. The pledges include measures to address damage to mobility devices during transit and ensure adequate staff assistance throughout airport and flight operations.
According to industry data, more than 1,000 wheelchairs sustained damage in transit in 2024, prompting the introduction of a standardised system to better prepare airlines and airports for handling mobility aids. The government is also planning to remove existing compensation caps for lost or damaged wheelchairs and grant aviation regulators enhanced enforcement powers, including the ability to impose fines on airlines and airports that fail to provide necessary assistance to passengers.
The changes are expected to be incorporated into the civil aviation bill currently moving through parliament. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasised the importance of enabling disabled passengers to travel without concerns about equipment damage or staff availability. The government indicated it has supported industry efforts to overhaul staff training programmes and develop simplified systems for passengers to communicate accessibility requirements prior to travel.
The aviation accessibility implementation group, tasked with monitoring progress against 19 prior recommendations, noted that while significant work remains, initial progress has been positive. Industry representatives reported that requests for assistance have increased by approximately 10% year-on-year, with satisfaction levels among passengers requiring additional support measured at 82%. Despite these improvements, nearly one in five disabled passengers continue to report dissatisfaction with their air travel experiences.
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