A passenger sued Ryanair, after being forced to pay 60 euros for an authorized medical device
A passenger acted in court the company Ryanair, after being forced to pay 60 euros in order to get on board with his artificial breathing medical apparatus, despite having a written authorization from the company. According to European law, an airline has no right to refuse to embark on a passenger who has a valid ticket and the necessary authorization.
The problems appeared on return from Heraklion. Photo: Archive
In the summer of 2024, the man, of Austrian origin, flew from Vienna to Crete. He was suffering from sleep apnea and needed a special breathing device. The device was recorded online, and Ryanair confirmed in writing that it can be brought on board. On his ticket Figure the mention “Medical Device on Board”, sImm to be all right. The case was reported by the publication Heute and was also taken over by the public television.
The flight to Crete went without incident. The problems arose when he returned from Heraklion, when an employee of the company forbade access on board, claiming that the troller in which the device was not allowed, although the passenger had written approval. Although he offered to open the luggage for verification, he was asked to pay 60 euros, otherwise he would have lost his flight.
Legal actions, “from principle”
Arriving home, the man appealed to the workers' room in Stiria (AK), who repeatedly asked for the Ryanair's amount. The company did not respond to the requests, so AK decided to initiate a trial in court.
“It is a matter of principle”said the lawyer Birgit Auner. “The written authorization should have been sufficient. Ryanair has violated its commitment.” She said that such abuse should not be overlooked, even if the amount involved is small. AK aims to prevent similar practices, especially from low-cost companies.
“Every time I see the name Ryanair, this injustice comes to mind.”said the injured man.
High chances of winning for passenger
According to European law, an airline has no right to refuse to embark on a passenger who has a valid ticket and the necessary authorization. If he had refused access on board, the passenger would have the right to compensation. AK believes that the chances of winning in court are high, although a definitive decision could only come in a few months.
