Air travel and disability
Airports are responsible for helping people with disabilities to move through the airport, board, disembark and transfer between flights.
Getting help from airlines and airports
If you have a disability or 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 least 48 hours before the flight departure time. If you have not booked, airports 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 passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility on their websites:
- Special Assistance - Belfast International Airport
- Special Assistance - George Best Belfast City Airport
- Special Assistance - City of Derry Airport
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 special assistance at airport if you have a disability.
Assistance dogs
If you're travelling with an assistance or guide dog, as long as it meets requirements airlines are required to carry your dog in the cabin free of charge.
If you are not self-sufficient
With safety in mind, an airline can require that you travel with a companion if you are not self-sufficient. This includes being able to open your own seatbelt, put your own oxygen mask on, or if you're able to evacuate the aircraft on your own in an emergency.
It also includes being able to administer your own medicines and medical procedures, and if you need help with eating or using the toilet.
Don't claim that you are self-sufficient if you are 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 goes missing.
The Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (Imtac) has a factsheet on travelling by air for people with disabilities.
Your rights as an air passenger
If you have a disability, 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.