Air travel and disability
Airports are responsible for helping disabled passengers to move through the airport, get on, get off, and transfer between flights. Airlines are responsible for helping disabled passengers from the point of getting on the aircraft to getting off the aircraft.
Your rights as an air passenger
If you are disabled, you're legally entitled to free accessibility help appropriate for your needs, from arrival at the airport, through to leaving the aircraft at your arrival destination.
The Consumer Council has information for air passengers who need special help when travelling. You can also find out your rights as an air passenger.
There is information about your rights and responsibilities when travelling by air in the Air passenger travel guide.
Getting help from airlines and airports
If you are disabled or have reduced mobility, it is a legal right to get the help you need. This should be booked from the airline you're flying with, or from a travel agent or tour operator you booked your trip with.
You should book accessibility assistance with your airline at least 48 hours before the flight departure time.
If you have not booked, airports and airlines will still make all reasonable efforts to give the help you need.
This usually means telling them about your needs when you're making your flight booking.
Each of the main airports in Northern Ireland has information for disabled passengers and passengers with reduced mobility on their websites:
If you plan to fly out of Dublin airport, visit the help and support section on its website:
The Civil Aviation Authority also has information about getting help while travelling by air.
Assistance dogs
If you're travelling with a recognised assistance dog that meets requirements, airlines are required to carry your dog in the cabin free of charge.
If you're not self-sufficient
With safety in mind, an airline can require that you travel with a companion if you're not self-sufficient. This includes:
- being able to put on and take off your own seatbelt
- putting your own oxygen mask on
- being able to evacuate the aircraft on your own in an emergency
- being able to take your own medicines and do your own medical procedures
- if you need help with eating or using the toilet
Do not claim that you're self-sufficient if you're not. You may cause yourself and the airline serious problems because they will be unable to meet your basic needs.
Always pack your medication in your hand luggage where possible, in case your main luggage is delayed or lost.
Travelling by air factsheet
The Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (Imtac) has a factsheet on travelling by air for disabled people.