Aviation watchdog raps Stansted Airport over access for disabled passengers

Stansted Airport has been told it must improve accessibility for disabled passengers.

The Essex hub was one of three airports that failed to meet the expectations of regulator the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Stansted’s operator, Manchester Airports Group, also received a ‘poor’ rating for its flagship Manchester Airport for the second year in a row. It was the only airport to receive this rating this year.

The CAA assesses airports against a number of measures to establish how well they are performing for disabled passengers, including feedback from those using assistance services.

Paul Smith, consumers and markets director at the UK CAA, said: “The improved performance of many airports means disabled passengers should have even more confidence to travel from UK airports. However, there are still too many occasions where things go wrong. Where we see examples of bad practice, we will not hesitate to hold airports to account and take the necessary enforcement action.”

A Stansted Airport spokeswoman acknowledged the findings of the report and responded by highlighting its investment in infrastructure, including the relocation of access points, expansion of reception areas and equipment to speed up boarding.

She added: “The CAA, in its report last year, asked Stansted to focus on improving engagement and consultation with representatives of disability groups. This year we have established a dedicated Disability Forum which has fed directly into new ideas to improve the airport experience for passengers with disabilities.

“We have also worked in partnership with organisations such as Changing Places and Dementia Friends to ensure our facilities are suitable for an even wider range of passengers.

“We recognise that we still have more work to do to make Stansted as accessible as possible, and we are committed to further improving on our record of service and engagement.”