Passengers who require accessibility assistance at the airport must inform their airline at least 48 hours before travel, according to Gov.uk. The advice was shared in a post on X, urging travellers to follow this rule to ensure their needs are met.
UK airlines' guidance on assisted travel
Different airlines across the UK have varying rules for assisted travel, though most follow the 48-hour guideline. Here is a summary of the policies from major UK carriers:
Ryanair
Ryanair recommends requesting assistance when booking, but passengers can pre-book online up to 48 hours before departure. After that, they should contact the assistance team up to 12 hours prior to the flight. If 48 hours' notice is not given, assistance may not be available, potentially disrupting travel plans. Passengers should arrive at the airport assistance desk 2 hours before departure.
Jet2
Jet2 asks passengers to let them know their requirements as soon as possible and no later than 48 hours before departure. They will communicate with the airport to make arrangements.
EasyJet
EasyJet requires passengers to inform them of any disability or reduced mobility needs no later than 48 hours before travel. Assistance can be requested during booking, via Manage Bookings, or by calling their dedicated team. Specialised equipment, wheelchairs over 60kg, and assistance dogs need approval in advance.
TUI
TUI uses an internationally recognised coding system to identify assistance levels. They ask passengers to make them aware of requirements at least 48 hours before travel, including details about wheelchairs, mobility, and medical equipment.
British Airways
British Airways asks customers to request assistance via Manage My Booking at least 48 hours before departure. They liaise with airport operators to make arrangements.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic advises passengers to inform them at the time of booking, and at least 48 hours before departure, so they can notify the airport operator. They will not refuse to carry passengers with disabilities unless they do not comply with conditions of carriage.
Your rights at UK and EU airports
If you have a sensory, physical, or learning disability affecting mobility, you have the right to help at specific arrival points, reaching check-in, moving through the airport, and boarding the plane. This also applies to temporary conditions like a broken leg.
