Help for passengers using air transport

Air travel does not pose a health problem to the vast majority of passengers, however, over the last few years concerns had been raised over a number of issues relating to passenger health.

These pages will help you understand when travelling by air.

• What the possible risks are to your health.
• Which organisations are responsible for passenger health.
• Where to get useful information regarding your health.
• Where to get information if you are a disabled or reduced mobility passenger.

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Aviation Health Unit (AHU)

The CAA, under the Civil Aviation Act 2006, has a general duty to safeguard the health of all persons on board aircraft. This duty includes both passengers and air crew.

The AHU is the part of the CAA that advises the government on these health issues. The AHU web pages provide information and links on issues relating to aviation health.

Access to Air Travel for Disabled Persons & Persons with Reduced Mobility

The Civil Aviation (Access to Air Travel for Disabled Persons and Persons with Reduced Mobility) Regulations 2007 came into force in July 2007, and will be fully implemented in July 2008. One of the key elements of this legislation is that airport authorities and airlines now have the responsibility to ensure safe access for disabled or reduced mobility passengers. This is from the time they arrive and depart from the airport and onboard the aircraft.

If you are a person with a disability or reduced mobility you are advised to:

• be prepared and let people know through your tour or booking agent if you might need assistance and make arrangements in advance. This helps airlines and airports provide a better service.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission is the complaints handling body in Great Britain for air travel accessibility. The Commission also provides guidance for disabled and reduced mobility passengers when travelling by air.

Other sources of useful information

• ‘World Health Organization – International Travel & Health’
  - provides information on the main health risks to travellers and the precautions to take.