The European Commission presented guidelines aimed at clarifying the existing EU rules on passenger rights for disabled people and people with reduced mobility travelling by air (EC Regulation 1107/2006). Many disabled and reduced mobility air travellers still face problems of unjustified refusals, and other unfair demands when attempting to travel, according to the Commission.

Siim Kallas, Vice-President and European Commissioner responsible for Transport, presented guidelines that deal with problems in 22 areas on access to air travel without discrimination. In particular, the guidelines are aimed at clarifying the existing EU rules on passenger rights for disabled people and people with reduced mobility travelling by air (EC Regulation 1107/2006). In February 2012, MEPs adopted a resolution which asks clarify air passengers' rights.

The guidelines highlight the importance of pre-notification, thus, they are addressed to both, travellers and EU carriers. In order to allow service providers (airports or airlines) to arrange the required assistance, it is essential that disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility notify their needs at least 48 hours before the published time of departure. In addition, passengers needing to travel with oxygen must pre-notify in advance. On the other hand, they also want to avoid unjustified refusals; they clarify that medical certificates should, as a norm, not be required for those with a stable condition – for example blind people or those confined to wheelchairs.

The Commission published these guidelines when thousands of disabled Paralympians and spectators prepare to travel to London for the 2012 Olympic Games. According to the Commission, the guidelines will help facilitate air travel for disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility and thus assist air carriers and airports to improve the application of the Regulation. They will also assist national authorities with the enforcement of the Regulation.