MEPs seek to end airline discrimination

MEPs have backed new legislation that will see a big improvement in rights for disabled air passengers.

Disabled passengers travelling in the EU now can not be refused transportation on the basis of their disabilities.

They must also be provided with any assistance they may need, free of charge, for example wheelchairs or aid when in transit and guide dogs will now be allowed on long haul flights.

Legislation was adopted upon first reading by MEPs, with 506 votes in favour, six against with one abstention.

This legislation comes in the wake of well-publicised problems, including the ejection of nine blind and partially sighted passengers from a Ryanair flight and the removal of a party of deaf students from an Iberia flight.

MEPs have welcomed the agreement, saluting it as a winner for the fundamental rights of disabled passengers.
 
“Gone are the days when airlines can specify that only four disabled people are allowed on a flight. If a group of 50 blind people book to fly from Gatwick to Rome, then fly they will” said Robert Evans the UK MEP that piloted the legisaltion.

“I never want to hear another case of one of my constituents being treated like a third-rate passenger just because they are blind.”

Commenting on the outcome of Thursday’s vote, Roy Griffins, Director General, Airports Council International Europe said that European airports gladly accept recognising the benefits this will bring to all their customers.

“Airlines will no longer be allowed to discriminate against or directly charge people of reduced mobility. In short, this rule will guarantee people with reduced mobility the same access to air travel as any other passenger,” said Griffins. 

The legislation will now pass to an EU council of transport ministers for ratification; it is widely hoped the legislation will some into effect by 2007 at the latest.

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