IAA to Oversee Airline Compliance as European Accessibility Act Takes Effect

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) welcomes the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which comes into effect across the European Union on 28 June 2025. This legislation aims to ensure equal access to services and products for persons with disabilities across the EU, including air transport. The EAA introduces new EU-wide accessibility requirements for digital services and support services, ensuring that passengers with disabilities can travel with greater independence and confidence.

The IAA is the designated compliance authority for the accessibility of digital services provided by airlines operating in Ireland. This compliments the IAA’s role as the National Enforcement Body for Regulation EC 1107/2006 which concerns the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air.

The IAA will work closely with airlines, government partners, and disability advocacy groups to help make air travel accessible for those travelling to and from Ireland.

Adrian Corcoran, Director of Economics, Consumer Affairs and Licensing at the IAA, said: “The European Accessibility Act is a big step forward for inclusion and fairness in air travel. The IAA’s role is to ensure airlines meet their new accessibility obligations under the European Accessibility Act (EAA), and we are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure real progress in reducing access barriers to air transport.”

“The IAA is dedicated to ensuring that people can travel by air with dignity, independence, and confidence. As part of its ongoing oversight, the Authority will conduct inspections, respond to complaints, and collaborate with stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of accessibility.”

The IAA will actively check how airlines meet the new rules and will ensure compliance with the Act.

Key benefits of this legislation for passengers:

• Accessible booking and check-in systems for persons with disabilities, including websites and mobile applications (apps).
• Enhanced training for airline staff.
• Clearer communication and information in accessible formats.

For further information visit https://www.iaa.ie/consumer-protection/airline-digital-accessibility