Aren’t we always clicking our tongues at the news of a physically disabled person going through challenges while travelling? This could be for anything ranging from having no proper seat on the aircraft for them to losing their baggage. And often, almost nothing is done to make the situation better. However, this may soon change for them as the General Authority of Civil Aviation, of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transport & Logistics Services is announcing a probable regulation to compensate disabled passengers.
GACA To Introduce New Regulations For Physically Disabled Passengers
As it happens, GACA is set to finalise new regulations for protecting the rights of passengers with special needs and physical disabilities. Yes, according to a report by Gulf News, disabled passengers will receive a compensation of 200% of their airfares. This can happen if the said airline fails to provide them with the required travel facilities and services. The proposed regulation also prohibits air carriers from making these people sign waivers or give up services that they should receive.
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Airline Might Have To Face Fines Up To SR50,000
These compensations will be awarded if the airline breaches its obligations of providing flight services and facilities for such passengers. Not to mention, these regulations also cover flight delays and cancellations that include compensation according to the duration of delay and communication offered by the air carrier. Moreover, passengers can also terminate their contract with the air carrier if the flight is delayed by over two hours. In fact, they can also even request a full refund! To implement and interpret these regulations, the GACA’s passenger rights protection department will take responsibility. It’s worth noting that if the airline is found guilty of violating these provisions, it can face fines of up to SR50,000.
Not to mention, passengers can also file a lawsuit to assess the extent of damage that may result from the air carriers, non-compliance with the terms and conditions of the transportation contract.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons