UK pledges better protection for disabled air passengers and their wheelchairs
The UK government says disabled air passengers will get better protection, including more trained staff, according to The Guardian. It plans to remove the cap on payouts for wheelchairs lost or damaged on domestic flights. More than 1,000 wheelchairs were damaged in transit in 2023, the government says.
Disabled travelers flying in Britain will get stronger safeguards, including better-trained staff and more protection for wheelchairs, the government said Monday, according to The Guardian and the Department for Transport's announcement.
More than 1,000 wheelchairs were damaged in transit in 2023, more than 80 a month, according to the Department for Transport. The Guardian gave the year as 2024. Airports have added staff training, and a new standard system has been set up to prepare airlines to handle mobility aids, The Guardian reported. Airlines, airports and wheelchair makers have also joined forces for the first time to make sure mobility aids, especially those with lithium batteries, are carried safely, the department said.
The Civil Aviation Bill now moving through Parliament would remove the compensation cap for lost or damaged wheelchairs and mobility aids on domestic UK flights, the department said. It would also let the Civil Aviation Authority fine airlines and airports that fail to give disabled passengers the help they need, The Guardian reported.
A new digital platform will be trialed so disabled passengers can share their support needs before they travel, the department said. That could include buggy rides through the airport, separate security lines or a quiet waiting area.
"People must be able to fly with dignity and peace of mind," Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said. "For disabled passengers this means not worrying about their wheelchair coming back in one piece."
The changes follow a review a year ago led by former Paralympian Tanni Grey-Thompson after many cases of passengers left stranded without help, The Guardian reported. The industry group tracking her 19 recommendations said there is "much more to be done, but we have made a positive start."
Not everyone is satisfied. Almost one in five disabled passengers are still unhappy with their air travel experience, according to an industry body, The Guardian reported. Airlines UK chief Tim Alderslade said the number of passengers needing help is up nearly 10% from a year earlier.
What we know: The government plans to end the wheelchair compensation cap on domestic flights and give regulators power to fine.
What we don't: When the Civil Aviation Bill will become law. Only The Guardian has reported this independently so far; NewsHabit hasn't seen independent confirmation.
Where outlets agree The Department for Transport's announcement and The Guardian both state that the government plans to remove the compensation cap for lost or damaged wheelchairs and let the regulator fine airlines and airports.
Where they differ The Guardian, citing an industry body, reports that almost one in five disabled passengers are still unhappy with air travel, while the government says the changes will help them travel with greater confidence.