Can we fly without fear?

Alex_Alumni

For anyone who has ever flown on a plane as a wheelchair user, you don't need me to tell you about countless horror stories of broken chairs, failed access and understanding, and even being left on planes for hours!

TV Presenter, Writer, Artist & Disability Advocate Sophie Morgan has been working hard to promote her campaign #RightsOnFlights and it seems the UK government is listening:

Oh. My. God. 🤯 Just woke up to the news that…..the U.K. Government ARE going to change the legislation to protect disabled people when we fly!!!!!!! ✈️ It’s HAPPENING!!!!!

Read all about it here: https://t.co/FpYORlypPe

LOOK!!!!! 👇🏻#RightsOnFlights @marionfellows pic.twitter.com/qXDBvjRBXz

"We will legislate when Parliamentary time allows to enhance the enforcement powers of the CIA by providing additional administrative tools, such as issuing financial penalties. This will enable the CAA to Stefan, more promptly and flexibly, where appropriate. We will work closely with the CIA on the design of those powers to make sure they are effective an appropriate."

— sophie morgan (@sophmorgTV) June 27, 2023

Scope shared thoughts on the news with this retweet:

👏 This is such good news. For too long airlines have been a law unto themselves when it comes to repairing or replacing equipment they have damaged.

Hopefully, we’ll start to see operators being held to account for accessibility on planes and in airports ✈️ https://t.co/2kEJvNxfAI

— Scope (@scope) June 27, 2023

Do you think this is a sign of positive change to come?

Margare93222061

@Alex_Scope
Hi  Alex  on the subject of flying I have never had any problems  with assistance   When travelling  by myself take. Care Margaret 

Alex_Alumni

That's good to hear @Margare93222061 thanks for sharing your experience  

I've had my own manual wheelchairs damaged a few times on flights, not enough to make them completely unusable thankfully! I'd be very weary of taking my powerchair on a flight for this reason.