EU rights for disabled and elderly air passengers

EU citizens with reduced mobility are enjoying guaranteed rights following the coming into force of new EU regulations.

The rules, which will be introduced in all EU airports and by all European airlines in three separate stages, will offer the disabled and the elderly access to air transport comparable to that of any other passengers flying from airports in the EU.

The European Commission said it believes the measures will provide an effective response to the needs of a large and - with Europe's demographic ageing - growing section of the population.

EU legislation now ensures that equal treatment is given to persons affected by reduced mobility.

According to the rules, airlines and tour operators cannot refrain from carrying passengers, or from taking bookings, on the basis of reduced mobility. Exceptions can be made only for duly justified safety reasons.

This, according to the Commission, should put an end to generally unintended instances of discrimination.

The two other stages of these rules will come into force next year.

As from next July, airports will have to provide a specific set of services for persons with reduced mobility such as offering transfer services when people with reduced mobility have to walk long distances to get from one part of the airport to the other. On flights from EU airports, airlines will be obliged to provide certain services, such as the carrying of wheelchairs or guide dogs, free of charge.

In order to make sure the rules are enforced, the regulation obliges member states to set up enforcement bodies responsible for ensuring that the EU regulation is applied on their territory.

Although some member states have already given the Commission the details of the body responsible, others, including Malta, have yet to notify the Commission of the designated responsible body.

Any person affected by a disability or by reduced mobility who considers that these rights were not respected can bring the matter to the attention of the management of the airport or the airline in question.

In case of an unsatisfactory response, a complaint can be made to the national enforcement body designated by the member state.

About 10 per cent of the EU population is affected by reduced mobility, mainly disabled and elderly people, while others are unable to walk long distances as often required in modern airports.

Most airlines and airports make genuine efforts to offer the necessary assistance. However, not all of them provide comprehensive assistance, free of charge.

The new EU regulation was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council in July last year.