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A new EU law to protect passengers with ­reduced mobility comes into force this week.

From July 26, agents must notify airlines of clients with ­reduced mobility at least 48 hours before departure. Agents can contact airlines by phone, email or by filling in a form on the carriers' websites.

The law protects pregnant women, people with broken limbs and elderly travellers with walking difficulties.

If a customer with reduced mobility feels the regulations have not been met, they can complain to the Disability Rights Commission, which can refer the matter to the Civil Aviation Authority. Repeated failure to meet legal requirements could lead to a fine of up to £5,000.

Transport minister Rosie Winterton said: "This is a major step in ensuring that disabled people and those with reduced mobility have the same access to the standards and services that everyone expects when they fly.

"We expect all airlines and airports to maintain these high standards and for strong action to be taken against anyone repeatedly breaking the regulations across Europe."

Winterton will join the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Civil Aviation Authority for a meeting tomorrow at London City Airport to outline the measures.

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