Rights of passengers with disabilities are well defined: CAA

Muscat: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the Sultanate of Oman recently issued regulations for the protection of air passenger rights, which also cover the rights of those with disabilities and special needs passengers.

The rights detailed across various articles inform air travellers of what they are entitled to and how they can claim compensation in case of denial of rights. Article 47 of the regulations states that the air carrier must announce its policy and procedures regarding the carriage of passengers with disabilities and special needs on its website.

Article 48 states that a passenger with disabilities and special needs must disclose his condition and the necessary devices and equipment when making a reservation. Article 49 states that the air carrier is prohibited from requiring a passenger with disabilities and special needs to sign any waivers of their rights or services under the provisions of these regulations.

Article 50 states that the air carrier must allow passengers with disabilities and special needs to carry the devices and equipment necessary for movement under the contract of carriage. If the passenger has service animals, they must obtain prior approval from the air carrier to carry the animal.

Article 51 states that the air carrier must ensure that devices and equipment that assist movement arrive with the disabled or special needs passenger, and in case of damage or loss, they will be compensated at the equivalent value.

Article 52 states that the air carrier must secure a replacement seat immediately if the wheelchair does not arrive on the same flight and compensate the passenger as stipulated in Chapter Four of these regulations.

Article 53 states that if the air carrier fails to provide an alternative flight for a passenger with disabilities or special needs, or fails to provide the necessary services outlined in this chapter, the passenger shall be compensated with the equivalent of 200 per cent of the total value of the ticket.