Disability and air travel

Advice and Guidance

What is on this page?

Your rights when travelling by air

Who is this page for?

  • Individuals using a service

Which countries is it relevant to?

    • England flag icon

      England

    • |
    • Scotland flag icon

      Scotland

    • |
    • Wales flag icon

      Wales

Your rights when travelling by air

The Equality Act 2010 gave disabled people rights including in the areas of public transport and consolidated and expanded existing equalities legislation, including introducing a new public sector equality duty. Transport operators have a duty to proactively consider how they are going to effectively reduce the barriers for disabled people.

EU regulations: Air passengers rights

Under European law-Air passengers Rights, if you are disabled or have difficulty moving around you can receive assistance when you fly to, from and within Europe.

You do not need to be permanently or physically disabled to benefit from this service. In fact, anyone who has difficulty moving around, for example because of their disability, age or a temporary injury, can receive help when they fly. This may include help when travelling through an airport, boarding or disembarking an aircraft and during a flight.

Sometimes, however, the assistance you get may not meet your expectations or communication can break down. In some limited cases, your requirements may not be covered by the law.

You can find out more from our booklet Top tips for disabled and less mobile passengers - Your Passport to a Smooth Journey.

You can find out more from our free step-by-step guide ‘Your Rights to Fly

Last updated: 19 Feb 2019

Further information

If you think you might have been treated unfairly and want further advice, you can contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service.

Phone: 0808 800 0082

You can email using the contact form on the EASS website.

Also available through the website are BSL interpretation, web chat services and a contact us form.

Post:
FREEPOST
EASS HELPLINE
FPN6521

Opening hours:

9am to 7pm Monday to Friday
10am to 2pm Saturday
closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays

Alternatively, you can visit our advice and guidance page.