Air travel with a disability or reduced mobility comes with dedicated protections under EU law, separate from, but alongside, EC 261/2004 compensation rules. Knowing both sets of rights can make the difference between a stressful trip and a dignified one.
Free assistance under Regulation 1107/2006
Airports and airlines must provide free help throughout your journey, from check-in through boarding, connections, and arrival. This includes wheelchair support, guided boarding, and help moving between gates.
- Notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure when possible
- Assistance must still be provided for last-minute requests
- Help applies at departure, connection, and arrival airports within the EU
Damaged or lost mobility equipment
If your wheelchair or mobility device is damaged or lost in transit, you may be entitled to repair or replacement costs. Report damage immediately at the airport and keep all documentation.
When assistance failures cause a missed flight
If a lack of promised assistance caused you to miss a flight or connection, the airline may be liable for re-routing and related costs, in addition to any standard EC 261/2004 compensation if the overall journey was disrupted.
Disability rights and delay compensation can overlap. A cancelled flight that also left you without promised wheelchair support may trigger claims under both regulations.
Get a full review of your case
Every situation is different. Share your boarding pass with Compensall and our team will review the full picture, assistance failures, delays, and cancellations together.
