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Aviation becomes accessible to all
Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick has outlined measures coming in later this month to give disabled people new rights when travelling by air in Europe. From 26 July 2007 it will be illegal for an airline, travel agent or tour operator to refuse a booking on the grounds of disability or to refuse to embark a disabled person who has a valid ticket and reservation. The law also covers persons with reduced mobility, including people who would not normally be classed as disabled, such as those with a temporary mobility problem. The new rules will mean that anyone who has been refused boarding on the grounds of disability or reduced mobility will be able to complain to the Disability Rights Commission (DRC). The Commission will advise them on their rights and could refer the matter to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) which will have power to prosecute. If found guilty, an airline could face an unlimited fine. Mr Fitzpatrick said: "The new measure coming into force later this month is only the first step in ensuring that disabled people and those with reduced mobility have the same access to air travel as others." "The second stage, which will come into force next year, will bring further significant benefits to disabled travellers. When all these measures are in place disabled passengers will be assured that they can expect a consistent and seamless level of service from airports and airlines."
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