Disabled passengers are set to experience improved air travel conditions as Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh announces the formation of the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group.

This initiative, unveiled at Manchester Airport and led by Paralympic champion Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, is designed to address the most significant challenges faced by disabled travellers.

The newly established group will be a collaborative effort between industry stakeholders and consumers, aiming to identify and dismantle barriers that currently hinder disabled passengers.

The taskforce’s mission is underscored by the involvement of Sophie Morgan, presenter and co-founder of Rights on Flights, who has been instrumental in advocating for better accessibility in aviation.

Sophie Morgan’s contributions, including her documentary ‘Fight to Fly’, have spotlighted the often-unacceptable circumstances encountered by disabled passengers. Her work has been crucial in promoting greater inclusivity within the sector.

Central to the taskforce’s approach is direct engagement with individuals who have personal experiences of flying with disabilities.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

This ensures that consumer perspectives are integral to driving advancements in service and dignity for disabled travellers.

Over the next nine months, this unique partnership between consumers and industry will scrutinise existing issues such as delayed assistance after landing, mishandling of wheelchairs, substandard service, inadequate access to facilities, and unclear information provision.

Members include representatives from airlines such as Jet2, Virgin Atlantic, Ryanair, and British Airways; travel agent association ABTA; assistance providers; and airports including London Stansted, East Midlands, Manchester, and Glasgow.

The taskforce’s inaugural meeting is scheduled later this month.

The group is committed to establishing both short-term and long-term actionable solutions that can be executed by airlines, regulatory bodies, or government agencies, ultimately leading to tangible enhancements for disabled travellers.