While passenger numbers continue to grow, barriers
remain for people with additional needs, such as those
suffering from allergies, meaning they are less likely
to choose to fly or find the experience more difficult
when they do.
The meeting follows the publication of
the consultation on the future of aviation,
Aviation 2050, which proposes the introduction of a
passenger charter. The charter will set out clear
standards for a range of passenger issues which could
include more consistent information for consumers with
allergies.
Aviation Minister said:
Passengers with nut allergies can face potentially
life-threatening challenges when travelling which can
cause significant stress and anxiety, especially for
families with children. We want to see improved
clarity and consistency in how the sector deals with
allergies because it is vital that sufferers have the
confidence to travel.
It is clear that airlines want to help too and build
on the good practice that already exists. They will
now meet with food allergy sufferers to explore
further what more can be done. The Department for
Transport will work with industry,
the CAA and
allergy groups to ensure there is a central point
where people can access the allergy policies of
individual airlines and the procedures for alerting
airlines when there are passengers travelling with
allergy needs.
Some airlines have stopped serving nuts on flights,
which provides some reassurance for those with
allergies, but the possibility of exposure cannot be
fully ruled out. Airlines already take the welfare of
their passengers very seriously and have processes in
place to enable passengers to notify them in advance of
their flight of any allergies to reduce risk and
mitigate against potential exposure.
The government is currently consulting on measures to
improve the flying experience for those with nut
allergies as part of the Aviation
Strategy green paper, and welcomes contributions
from interested parties.
The consultation will conclude later this year. The
government will then respond in due course.
