The accessibility of Irish air travel came under sharp scrutiny today after the family of Jarek Marah, a wheelchair user paralysed since 2024, told LMFM’s ‘The Agenda’ that he was prevented from boarding a Ryanair service because his powered chair allegedly exceeded size limits. The incident occurred yesterday at Dublin Airport as Mr Marah was set to fly to Alicante for rehabilitation. Ground staff reportedly advised that the aircraft hold could not accommodate the device—even though the same model has flown on other Ryanair routes. The airline offered to rebook him on a later flight with “appropriate equipment,” but the family says the experience left him “shocked and humiliated.” Under EU Regulation 1107/2006, carriers must transport mobility aids free of charge “wherever possible”; refusal is only permitted on strict safety grounds that must be documented in writing. The Commission imposes fines of up to €30,000 per infringement, and Irish disability groups are urging the Irish Aviation Authority to investigate. For employers the case is a timely reminder to audit travel-policy compliance with accessibility legislation, especially for secondees and assignees who may rely on wheelchairs or medical devices. Travel coordinators should pre-advise airlines of equipment dimensions, request written carriage confirmations and retain records in case of dispute. Ryanair said in a brief statement that it “regrets any inconvenience” and is reviewing loading-procedures for larger powered chairs across its Boeing 737 fleet. The company added that it carried more than 600,000 passengers with reduced mobility last year and provides dedicated disability-assistance hotlines.
Source: LMFM ‘The Agenda’ (Acast audio)
