From ticket purchase to landing: how Israel intends to ease flights for people with disabilities

Israel's Ministry of Transport has presented a draft regulation that enshrines the rights of passengers with disabilities and the obligations of airlines. The document covers the entire journey from ticket purchase to onboard service, but allows carriers to deny boarding on security grounds.

On Sunday, November 1, Israel's Ministry of Transport presented a draft regulation aimed at enshrining the rights of passengers with physical disabilities and the obligations of airlines and airport operators. The document covers the entire passenger journey — from ticket purchase to onboard service. Currently, Israeli norms in this area mainly concern aircraft design, and there is no comprehensive regulation of the rights of passengers with disabilities, even though Israel committed to aligning its rules with European standards back in 2013. The draft provides for information in accessible formats, airport escort, assistance during boarding and on board, and free transport of assistive equipment with compensation for loss or damage. However, airlines retain the right to deny boarding on security grounds or due to aircraft size, and may require an accompanying person. In case of refusal, the carrier must explain the decision and offer an alternative, but notice may come 48 hours before the flight. The lack of uniform rules has so far created uncertainty for passengers with disabilities, and the draft aims to fill this gap, although the rules have yet to be finalized.