Ruth Haines
If you need assistance at the airport, it's important to contact the airline or airport at least 48 hours before your flight. This can be done by phone or by filling out a special form, where you can outline your needs. This could include a request for a wheelchair, or help with the check-in process, boarding the plane, or getting through security. It's also worth noting that some airlines offer special assistance to the elderly, including the option of a more comfortable seat and adjusted meals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to book assistance | At the same time as booking your flight or at least 48 hours before travel |
| Who to contact | The airline or airport |
| How to contact | By phone or by filling in a special form |
| What to provide | Details of your medical condition and any equipment you will be travelling with |
| What to expect | Help with the check-in process, boarding the plane, getting off the plane, baggage collection and security procedures |
| Extra info | Some airlines offer special assistance to the elderly, including more comfortable seats and adjusted meals |
What You'll Learn
How to book wheelchair assistance
Booking wheelchair assistance at an airport can be done in a few simple steps. Here is a guide on how to book wheelchair assistance for your next flight.
Before Your Flight
Firstly, it is recommended that you notify your airline and the airport at least 48 hours in advance. Call them and ask about arranging wheelchair services. If you are unable to arrange a wheelchair before your arrival at the airport, you can request one at the ticketing counter when you arrive. It is also advisable to arrive at the airport at least one to two hours earlier than you normally would to ensure your reservation and allow time for any necessary preparations.
Before your flight, review your airline's wheelchair guidelines on their website. Check their policies on personal wheelchairs, stowing battery-powered chairs, and using wheelchair equipment to board the plane. Some airlines may require you to fill out a wheelchair information form, which can be found on their website. This form will ask for details such as your name, flight information, and the type of assistance you require.
At the Airport
Once you arrive at the airport, locate a customer service representative and ask about wheelchair accommodations. All airports provide wheelchairs for customer use, but arriving early ensures that you receive assistance promptly. If you have a non-collapsible wheelchair, scooter, or battery-powered wheelchair, you can check it at the ticket counter.
During Your Flight
If you require wheelchair assistance during your flight, such as moving from your wheelchair to your seat or accessing the bathroom, the flight attendants are there to help. Inform them of your particular needs, such as requesting an aisle chair or using a ramp to board the plane.
At Your Destination
After you arrive at your destination, you can ask a flight attendant for assistance in disembarking the plane and making your way into the airport. If you have travelled with your own wheelchair, it will be returned to you at the gate.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive the necessary wheelchair assistance throughout your journey.
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Special assistance for the elderly
Special assistance for elderly passengers is available at most airports and airlines. This service includes help at the airport, as well as the possibility of choosing a more comfortable seat and adjusting in-flight meals to the passenger's diet.
To request special assistance, contact the airline during the booking process or directly before the flight. You can do this by phone or by filling out a special form, providing information about the passenger's medical condition and any mobility equipment they will be bringing. It is worth noting that individual carriers and airports have different requirements for how far in advance they should be informed about the need for special assistance. Some airports ask for contact at least 72 hours before the flight, while others require 48 hours' notice.
If you require a wheelchair, it is recommended to call the airport at least 48 hours before your flight. Most airports have staff dedicated to providing travel assistance to seniors, and they will mark your itinerary with "special assistance requested", ensuring staff are prepared for your arrival.
When you arrive at the airport, make yourself known at the special assistance desk, where you can request assistance with luggage, wheelchair use, and special assistance through security. Airport assistance staff wear high-visibility clothing and are available around the airport at all times.
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How to request help online
Many airlines and airports offer assistance for individuals with disabilities, reduced mobility, or other special requirements. This can include help with the check-in process, boarding the plane, and getting around the airport.
When booking your flight:
- If you are booking your flight through a website, look for a special assistance link or similar. This should provide you with information on how to request the type of help you need.
- Some airlines or booking platforms may ask you to telephone them or fill out a web form to request assistance.
After booking your flight:
- Contact the airline to request any special assistance you will need at the airport or during your flight.
- Be sure to review the airline's special assistance request codes or guidelines before calling. This information is usually available on the airline's website.
- Provide clear information about the type of help you need. This will help the airline prepare and ensure that you receive appropriate support.
Before your flight:
- It is recommended to notify the airline and airport of any special assistance requirements at least 48 hours before your flight. This lead time helps them make the necessary arrangements.
- If you are travelling with a wheelchair, review the airline's guidelines on their website, including any size restrictions and policies on flying with a personal wheelchair.
On the day of your flight:
Arrive at the airport early. This will give you ample time to request assistance and ensure that your needs are met before departure.
Remember to review the policies of your specific airline, as they may vary in their offerings and procedures for special assistance.
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What to do if you need help at your destination airport
If you need assistance at your destination airport, you should inform a flight attendant before you land. If you are unable to do this, you can request assistance from a flight attendant once the plane has landed.
At your destination airport, you will be returned your wheelchair or mobility aid at the arrival gate, unless there are extenuating circumstances. You may also be entitled to assistance through immigration, customs, and baggage reclaim, depending on the country visited. This may include some car parks, train stations, and drop-off points.
If you have not requested assistance before your flight but realise you will need it at your destination, you can notify a flight attendant, who will be able to help you once the plane has landed.
If you need wheelchair assistance to get off the aircraft, be aware that airlines generally provide this assistance after all other passengers have disembarked.
If you believe your rights under the Air Carrier Access Act are being violated, you can ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Official (CRO). Airlines are required to make one available to you, free of charge, either in person at the airport or by telephone.
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How to get assistance with mobility aids
If you need assistance with mobility aids at the airport, there are several steps you can take to ensure your needs are met. Firstly, it is important to research which airlines can provide the type of special assistance you require. Different airlines have varying policies and capabilities when it comes to assisting passengers with disabilities, so doing your research beforehand is crucial. Contact the airline directly through their website or dedicated special assistance phone number to understand their offerings.
Once you have chosen your airline, book your assistance as early as possible, preferably at the same time as you book your ticket. Airlines require ample notice to ensure they have the right number of specialist staff available. You can usually book assistance online or by contacting the airline directly. They may ask for details about your mobility equipment, such as dimensions and battery type, so have this information ready.
When you arrive at the airport, make yourself known at the special assistance desk, where you can request assistance with luggage, wheelchair use, and support through security. If you are travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least one hour before the standard check-in time.
Throughout your time at the airport, special assistance staff will be easily identifiable by their high-visibility clothing. They can assist you with a range of tasks, including checking you in, guiding you through the airport, and helping you board and disembark the aircraft.
Remember, each airport and airline may have slightly different procedures, so always check their specific guidelines and contact them in advance if you have any questions or concerns.
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Frequently asked questions
Contact the carrier during the booking process or directly before the flight. You can do it by phone or by filling in a special form. You will need to provide information about the medical condition of the passenger, including the need to provide them with a wheelchair.
Airlines need plenty of notice, so they can make sure that they have the right number of specialist staff on the ground. It is recommended to book assistance at least 48 hours before your flight.
Make yourself known at the special assistance desk. Here, you can request assistance with luggage, the use of a wheelchair, and special assistance through security. Staff at the desk will inform you of how to check in for your flight, and will tell you where to meet the airport assistance staff if you do not require assistance through security.
If you need assistance during your flight, such as with stowing/retrieving your carry-on luggage, notify a flight attendant. If you did not request assistance before your flight but realise during your flight that you will need assistance at your destination or on a connecting flight, notify the flight crew before landing.
