What is special assistance?

For travelers with disabilities, reduced mobility and other assistance needs, airlines and airports provide services to make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible. However, the kind of help and who gives it varies greatly, so it's always best to check with your airline before you fly.

Both airlines and airports usually ask you to contact them at least 72 hours before you travel so they can get everything sorted for you.

Help at the airport

If you need assistance at the airport, the airport's arrival and departure services are there to help. You may also be able to get help from airline staff, too.

The type and range of help available varies a lot depending on the airport or airline but can include:

• Providing a wheelchair.
• Accompanying you through customs and security to the boarding gate.
• Boarding the plane, taking your seat and putting away your cabin bags.
• Getting off the plane after landing.
• Helping you collect your checked baggage and any mobility equipment you're traveling with.
• Accompanying you to an agreed meeting place where you can carry on the rest of your journey.

As well as speaking to your airline, it can be a good idea to check the websites of airports you're traveling through to see their services and facilities.

Help on board

Once you're on board, your airline can help you with a range of things, from getting around the aircraft to special safety briefings and help with food and drink. But again, this will change depending on the airline, so we recommend you contact them as soon as possible to discuss what you need.