The Department for Transport announced on 19 October 2026 measures intended to give disabled air passengers stronger protection from wheelchair damage and better-trained airport and airline staff. The release said more than 1,000 wheelchairs were damaged in transit in 2023, equivalent to more than 80 every month, an average of 0.43% of wheelchairs transported that year.

It attributed the changes to recommendations from former Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and to the cross-industry Aviation Accessibility Implementation Group, which it described as independent but government-supported. The release cited a standardised form introduced in March that year for wheelchair battery and handling information, training designed with disabled passengers, and a digital platform set to be trialled for sharing support needs before travel.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said passengers should be able to fly with dignity and peace of mind. The release linked the changes to the Civil Aviation Bill then progressing through Parliament, which it said would allow stronger regulatory action and remove the compensation cap for lost or damaged wheelchairs and mobility aids on domestic UK flights. A consultation on accessibility reforms was planned within 12 months of royal assent. Industry leaders Tim Alderslade of Airlines UK and Karen Dee of AirportsUK welcomed the collaboration.