Aviation Services UK (ASUK) has instigated a Flier Friendly Programme aimed at improving the experience of travellers who use battery-powered mobility aids.
The trade association, which represents ground services providers, says the programme will deliver on the recommendations of a review chaired by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson. The review by ASUK has support from airlines, airports, ground handlers, and leading mobility aid manufacturers, including Sunrise Medical.
It will target preparation and tighten coordination and information sharing between the aviation and mobility sectors. The body’s members handle over 80% of all UK flights.
“No one wants to see customers experience delays or be denied boarding. And no one wants to see devices damaged. The Flier Friendly Programme is about encouraging practical steps that support both safety management and passenger accessibility,” said David Leighton FRSA, Chief Executive at ASUK.
“It is an industry-led best practice initiative. It does not replace airline approvals processes or regulatory requirements, nor does it guarantee carriage. But we believe it is an important step forward, and we’re delighted to have the support of the British Healthcare Trades Association and leading manufacturers likeSunrise Medical and eFOLDi in making it happen.”
Battery safety in aviation has been in the spotlight recently as global regulators review how high-energy lithium-ion batteries inside mobility aids are assessed and then approved.
Faith Brown, Clinical and Education Lead at Sunrise Medical, said: “We know flying can be a source of stress for people living with a disability. That’s why we’re excited to be involved in this important initiative and to remove one of the barriers to air travel wheelchair users face.
“We have already added battery safety information and advice to our website, and all of our devices are fitted with batteries that are fully compliant with the UN standards on battery safety. Travelling shouldn’t be inaccessible to people using mobility aids.”
The Flier Friendly Programme will provide an EMA Air Travel Pack containing key practical tools to support passengers to be able to prepare in advance and share any technical information with airlines that is required.
The Pack includes a guide for travellers with relevant practical tips, a structured technical information form covering necessary information for specific devices and guidance around UN38.3 lithium battery compliance documentation and how to secure it.
Lithium batteries that are used in mobility aids must adhere to United Nations specifications, but requirements may vary amongst airlines.
“There is much more that needs to be done, but it’s clear that cementing collaboration between the aviation and mobility aid manufacturing sectors is essential to make the progress we all want to see,” Leighton said.
