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OTTAWA - The Federal Court of Appeal has turned down Canada's two major airlines, which challenged an order that they make exceptions to the one-person, one-fare policy in certain situations involving disabled travellers that need more than one seat.

The court ruling means the airlines will have 12 months to draft regulations to allow a for a second seat at no extra cost for disabled individuals when one is required for an attendant. It would also apply to obese individuals who need an extra seat.

The Council of Canadians with Disabilities said they believe the ruling is the first of its kind in the world that would require airlines to make such an accommodation to disabled passengers.

The agency estimated the cost to the airlines at about $1.5 million.

Air Canada and West Jet sought leave before the federal court to appeal the ruling, but the request was turned down last week.