Passengers that have reduced mobility or have had a recent injury may need wheelchair assistance through the airport.
Wheelchair assistance can be requested in advance through the airline, and depending on the type of illness / injury you may need medical clearance, especially if you require extra seats, or need oxygen.
Types of Wheelchair Assistance are shown below :-
WCHR – For passengers who can ascend and descend steps and move in the aircraft
cabin but who require a wheelchair for distance to/from the aircraft.
WCHS – For passengers who cannot go up and down steps, wheelchair
is required to/from the aircraft and the passenger must be carried up/down the
steps but is able to make their own way to/from cabin seat to the door.
WCHC – For passengers who are completely immobile and require a wheelchair to/from
the aircraft and must be carried up/down the steps and to/from their cabin seat.
Organize in advance, as most airlines need you to request this service at least 48 hours in advance.
What if I have my own wheelchair?
Contact the airline in advance to make arrangements to take it with you. There are restrictions on the types of batteries that can be accepted on board by the airlines.
Medical Clearance
You may need to give your insurer permission to obtain medical clearance on your behalf. Depending on the airline this can take up to 72 hours to obtain.
If you require extra seats, business class upgrade or even oxygen for your flight, check with the airline you are travelling with. Passengers can be refused boarding by the airline without the correct clearance.
Most airlines have their own specific form to be completed and sent to them. The form needs to include when the passenger was confirmed as fit to fly amongst other info. The airline can request that the form is completed by the doctor who has treated the patient.
