Often, travelling with a disability requires preparation and prior knowledge of accessibility, particularly when it comes to airports. Travelling through any of the UK?s major airports can be a daunting task, and current aviation regulations prohibit wheelchairs from any area beyond the plane?s door. This is a ruling which has sparked a lot of debate, with questions of passenger safety and dignity arising in discussions. Consequent campaigns, such as the work of Flying Disabled, are suggesting that the government must act to implement legislation, to rethink policies on travelling with a disability. Airports are often hectic, busy environments but some prior knowledge can be useful to navigate accessible facilities such as toilets.
As stated, wheelchairs are not currently allowed on board planes, unless they are stored in the hold. The advice from Gov.uk outlines the importance of contacting your airline as soon as possible should you intend on travelling with a wheelchair or mobility aid; however the impacts of being without mobility assistance are often difficult to resolve. Typically, airline policies should include some guidance or help for the boarding process, to ensure that the traveler feels safe. Travel is a notoriously wealthy industry, and ABTA have found that there are currently more than 11 million disabled people in the UK, which underlines the need for an increase in inclusivity. Airlines state that policies on weight restrictions and health and safety are ...