Flight: Rights of persons with disabilities (PRM)
from Armin Trojer
In particular, people with disabilities have the right to be provided with free assistance at the airport (on the way to the gate and to the aircraft, when boarding and disembarking, etc.). They are also entitled to assistance with checking in, receiving and transporting their baggage, as well as with security and customs checks.[nbsp]Airlines are obliged to carry any necessary medical equipment and mobility aids, including electric wheelchairs (provided they have been registered 48 hours in advance, there is sufficient space on board and the safety regulations are complied with). They must also carry recognized assistance dogs, subject to national regulations.
As far as possible,[nbsp]airlines must take the needs of the person with a disability into account when allocating seats. If people with disabilities are assisted by an accompanying person, the airline must, as far as possible, assign this person an adjacent seat. In addition, this person must be permitted, on request, to provide the necessary assistance in the airport and when boarding and disembarking.
In order for[nbsp]airlines and airport operators to be able to prepare for this, it is necessary for passengers to register their needs 48 hours in advance and arrive in good time before the departure time. However, even if no notification is made, the airport operator is obliged to provide the best possible support.
If wheelchairs or other mobility aids belonging to employees of the airline or airport are damaged or lost, the responsible company is liable for the replacement value or repair costs.
Our tip: In cases involving possible discrimination within the meaning of the Federal Disability Equality Act, the apf recommends contacting the Social Ministry Service(www.sozialministeriumservice.at). A conciliation body has also been set up there, which should be called upon as a preliminary stage to any legal proceedings for discrimination.
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