Help for passengers using air transport

Air travel does not pose a health problem to the vast majority of passengers, however, over the last few years concerns had been raised over a number of issues relating to passenger health.

These pages will help you understand when travelling by air.

• What the possible risks are to your health.
• Which organisations are responsible for passenger health.
• Where to get useful information regarding your health.
• Where to get information if you are a disabled passenger.

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Aviation Health Unit (AHU)

The CAA, under the Civil Aviation Act 2006, has a general duty to safeguard the health of all persons on board aircraft. This duty includes both passengers and air crew.

The AHU is the part of the CAA that advises the government on these health issues. The AHU web pages provide information and links on issues relating to aviation health.

Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC)

The Civil Aviation (Access to Air Travel for Disabled Persons and Persons with Reduced Mobility) Regulations 2007 came into force in July 2007, and will be fully implemented in July 2008. One of the key elements of this legislation is that airport authorities now have the responsibility to ensure safe access for disabled persons. This is from the time they arrive at the airport until the time they leave.

If you are a disabled person or a person with reduced mobility you are advised to:

• be prepared and let people know if you might need assistance and make arrangements in advance. This helps airlines and airports provide a better service.

DPTAC advises the government on the transport needs of disabled people and contains extensive advice for disabled passengers including ‘Access to air travel: guidance for disabled and less mobile passengers’.

Other sources of useful information

• ‘World Health Organization – International Travel & Health’
  - provides information on the main health risks to travellers and the precautions to take.