UK and EU announce strengthened passenger rights and accessibility protections

The United Kingdom government has pledged to enhance protections for disabled air passengers following an accessibility review led by Tanni Grey-Thompson. The proposed measures, which are part of an advancing civil aviation bill, aim to prevent damage to wheelchairs and improve staff training. Key legislative proposals include removing compensation caps for lost or damaged mobility aids and granting aviation regulators expanded authority to fine airlines and airports for failing to provide necessary assistance.

Simultaneously, the European Union is preparing to implement a new regulatory framework for all modes of transport, including planes, trains, buses, and ferries. Approved by the EU Parliament, these rules aim to simplify the reimbursement and compensation process through a standardized claim form. The regulations require carriers to proactively inform passengers of their rights within 96 hours of arrival and mandate that third-party ticket intermediaries provide transparent refund information. Under these rules, passengers may also claim up to 400% of their original fare if a carrier fails to reroute them within three hours of a disruption.