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:

• Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 makes it clear that affected persons and their companions must be prioritised for transport and care services in the event of a flight irregularity.
• They are also 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.
• Travellers with reduced mobility are entitled to take their mobility aids and assistance dogs into the cabin free of charge, although special safety regulations and registration procedures may need to be observed in individual cases. It is therefore advisable to contact the operating airline in advance. Airlines are liable for the delayed carriage of mobility aids 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 under the German Civil Code (BGB) or the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) may also be considered.