Planning accessibility at UK airports

Plan around the support and facilities you need for your whole journey. An airport’s general accessibility page is a starting point, not confirmation of every facility in every terminal.

General planning guidance. Airport and airline procedures can differ. Use the official links below to confirm what applies to your journey.

Request assistance early

The UK Civil Aviation Authority advises requesting assistance when booking, or at least 48 hours before departure where possible, through your airline, travel agent or tour operator. Ask for written confirmation and keep it with your travel information.

Describe the support you need at each stage, including security, boarding and connections. If you are travelling at short notice, contact the airline to discuss what can be arranged.

Check facilities individually

An accessible toilet, a Changing Places toilet and a sensory room serve different needs. Check the airport’s description of the specific facility rather than relying on a general accessibility symbol.

  • Confirm the terminal, floor and side of security.
  • Ask about step-free routes, distances and assistance meeting points.
  • For Changing Places facilities, check equipment, access arrangements and any key requirement.
  • For quiet or sensory spaces, check intended use, booking and opening arrangements.
  • If travelling with an assistance dog or mobility equipment, discuss the relevant arrangements with the airline.

Prepare the route through the terminal

Save the airport’s official accessibility guide and assistance contact route before travelling. Confirm where to report on arrival and the time recommended by your airline.

Consider the arrival airport and return flight as well as your outbound departure. Keep a short record of the arrangements agreed with each provider so that staff can understand what you need.

What this directory can confirm

The supplied accessibility records are incomplete research. A link to an airport’s accessibility page is not a promise that a particular room, toilet, route or service is available. Use the official airport and airline channels for arrangements on which your journey depends.

Official information

Plan your airport visit

Find your airport or browse facilities. Read about our research process and report an update.