Airport services for disabled and less mobile passengers have improved over the last year, according to a report from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
Its Airport Accessibility Report, which assesses 26 of the largest UK airports, highlights airports’ efforts in providing disabled and less mobile passengers with assistance services.
From April 2022 to March 2023, 18 UK airports consistently achieved a ‘good’ or a ‘very good’ rating. Seven airports also improved from a ‘poor’ rating to ‘good’ or ‘very good’ rating over the year.
These airports struggled to meet performance targets in the first two quarters, but improved to a ‘very good’ rating by the end of the year.
Among those were Manchester Airport, London Luton and London Heathrow.
Manchester Airport has invested heavily in recruitment and equipment, London Luton has made ‘significant improvements’ and London Heathrow achieved the performance standards required.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority is focusing on encouraging airports to increase staffing and invest in equipment during the quieter winter months.
Paul Smith, Joint-Interim Chief Executive at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “[This] report shows the dedicated efforts of airports across the UK to ensure that all passengers receive the standard of service they deserve. With 18 airports consistently achieving good or very good ratings, and others demonstrating significant improvements, the industry is making strides in returning accessibility levels to those seen before the Covid-19 pandemic.”
“It’s also important to acknowledge that there is still a way to go in providing a consistently good service for disabled and less mobile passengers across the industry, particularly for those with more complex needs, and throughout the busier summer months. The UK Civil Aviation Authority remains committed to working with airports, airlines, industry stakeholders, and advocacy groups to drive forward further improvements,” added Smith.
