The Department for Transport announced new safeguards for disabled air passengers on 19 October 2026, aimed at cutting wheelchair damage and improving the support passengers get at airports. Some of the measures are already in place, some are still to be trialled, and the strongest depend on legislation that hasn’t passed.
Already under way is industry work led by the Aviation Accessibility Implementation Group, which includes airlines and airports. A standard form for wheelchair batteries and handling has been in use since March 2026, and staff training has been designed with disabled passengers. The Department for Transport says some airports have started, for example Gatwick with staff training, but these steps are voluntary and haven’t reached every airport or airline.
A digital system that lets passengers share their support needs before they travel is still at the trial stage, with no launch date. The ideas mentioned include help getting around the airport and quieter places to wait, but these are examples rather than new guarantees.
The firmer changes sit in the Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection and Regulatory Reform) Bill. If it becomes law, the Civil Aviation Authority would gain faster enforcement powers and the ability to fine firms, and the compensation cap for wheelchairs and mobility aids lost or damaged on domestic UK flights would be removed. As of 21 October the Bill was at report stage in the Commons, and it is not yet an Act.
For families with a disabled child or adult, nothing changes today. Free assistance is already a legal entitlement, and the Civil Aviation Authority advises asking for it when booking or at least 48 hours before departure, keeping written confirmation, and telling the airline about any electric mobility equipment. Families should arrange this with their airline rather than wait for the new system.
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