Passenger rights in the event of reduced mobility and accessibility

The interests of people with disabilities or reduced mobility deserve special protection. Passenger rights therefore contain regulations that are intended to enable equal participation:

• Persons with disabilities and their accompanying persons must be prioritised in terms of assistance as well as care services in the event of a flight irregularity – as stipulated in the Regulation (EC) No 261/2004.
• In addition, they are entitled to free assistance at the airport and on board (Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006). The requirement is to register the need for assistance at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure. However, even without prior notification, access to the aircraft must be made possible at short notice if necessary.
• Mobility-impaired travellers are entitled to free carriage of their mobility aids and assistance dogs in the cabin, subject to special safety regulations and announcements in individual cases. It is therefore advisable to contact the operating airline in advance. Airlines are liable for the delayed carriage of mobility equipment and for damage or loss.

Airlines must ensure non-discriminatory access to these services. In the event of discrimination, claims for damages and/or compensation may also be possible under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) may also come into consideration.