Wheelchair vacations, flying in a wheelchair at no cost and planning your booking with disability: accessibility at airports and on planes with ALPEN AIR
Traveling by air can be a challenge for people with physical disabilities. However, thanks to improved accessible facilities and specialized support services, flying is becoming increasingly accessible. In this article, you will learn how airports and airlines are meeting the needs of travelers with disabilities and what benefits you can enjoy as a disabled pass holder.
1) Flying with disability: preparation and registration
2) Accessible facilities at the airport and on the plane
3) Accessibility in the airplane
4) Advantages of the disabled person’s pass when flying
5) Further tips: International travel, European rights and financial aspects
Flying with disability: preparation and registration
Early planning and registration
Careful preparation is the key to a smooth journey. Inform the airline of your specific needs at least 48 hours before departure. This will allow the airlines to make suitable arrangements, such as providing a wheelchair, organizing an accompanying person or other assistance.
Wheelchair as luggage
If you use your own wheelchair, you can usually check it in free of charge as special baggage. It is important to declare the wheelchair at check-in so that the ground staff are prepared accordingly. Some airlines also offer you the option of using your wheelchair right up to the aircraft.
Accompanying person
People with disabilities are often entitled to take an accompanying person with them. In some cases, the accompanying person flies free of charge or at a reduced price. Find out about the conditions of the respective airline when booking.
Medical requirements and aids
If you need medical equipment or special medication, you should carry this in your hand baggage and have the relevant medical certificates to hand. Some devices, such as oxygen concentrators, must be approved by the airline.
Accessible facilities at the airport and on the plane
Airport transfer and arrival
Many airports offer special transfer services for people with disabilities. These services can pick you up from your home and take you directly to the airport. In addition, public transportation such as buses and trains are increasingly accessible.
Disability and mobility service at airports
Many airports offer a special disability service to assist you at check-in, security and boarding. The mobility service accompanies you from the arrivals area to the aircraft and is also available after landing.
Handicap accessible information systems
Airports are increasingly relying on accessible information systems, including tactile guidance systems, Braille signage and induction loops for hearing aids.
Order a wheelchair at the airport
If you do not bring your own wheelchair, you can hire one at the airport. This service is usually free of charge, but should be booked in advance.
Parking with disabilities
Airports provide special parking spaces for people with disabilities, which are located near the terminal entrance. You can use these parking spaces with a valid disabled person´s pass. In some cases, parking fees are reduced or waived completely.
Special check-in desks
Some airports offer special check-in desks for people with disabilities to reduce waiting times. Simply show your disabled person’s ID card to use this service.
Security check
There are often separate areas at the security checkpoint for passengers with special needs. The staff are trained and handle aids such as prostheses or wheelchairs discreetly and carefully.
Use of lounges and special waiting areas
Some airports offer access to special waiting areas or lounges for people with disabilities. These are more comfortable and make waiting for the flight easier.
Accessibility in the airplane
Seat reservation for the severely disabled
To make the flight as comfortable as possible, you can reserve special seats. Seats with more legroom or close to the toilet can be helpful. Please note that for safety reasons, emergency exit seats are often not available for passengers with reduced mobility.
Where do passengers with disabilities sit on the plane?
As a rule, passengers with disabilities are seated where they can best be assisted. The cabin crew are trained to provide assistance if necessary, for example when using the toilet.
Service aboard
The on-board staff are trained to meet the needs of passengers with disabilities. If you have special requirements, such as medical equipment or special catering, please inform the airline in advance.
Handicap accessible toilets
Modern airplanes have barrier-free toilets that offer more space and are equipped with grab rails.
Advantages of the disabled person's pass when flying
Discounts and free services
With a disabled person’s ID card, you can take advantage of various benefits. Some airlines offer discounts on the fare or allow you to take medical baggage with you free of charge.
Flight disability discount
Enquire about possible discounts when booking. These may vary depending on the airline and degree of disability.
Fly for free with a disabled person’s pass
In certain cases, the accompanying person flies free of charge. This is often the case if a “B” (accompanying person required) is entered on the ID card.
Further tips: International travel, European rights and financial aspects
International travel: Different standards of accessibility
Accessibility is not uniformly regulated internationally. Find out about the conditions at your destination to avoid any surprises.
European regulation (EG) No. 1107/2006
This regulation protects the rights of people with disabilities and reduced mobility in air transport. It ensures that they are not turned away because of their disability and that they are entitled to free assistance.
Complaints and enforcement of your rights
If you believe that your rights have been violated, you can contact the national enforcement body. In Germany, this is the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt.
Financial aspects: Cost coverage by health insurance companies
In certain cases, health insurance companies cover the costs of necessary assistance services or medical aids during the trip.
Financial aspects: Travel cancellation and international health insurance
It is advisable to choose special insurance policies that are tailored to the needs of people with disabilities. These often offer extended benefits in the event of illness or trip interruption.
Conclusion: Your path to an accessible flight
Flying for people with physical disabilities is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to extensive services and barrier-free facilities. By planning ahead, taking advantage of the assistance on offer and knowing your rights, you can make your journey as comfortable as possible. Airports and airlines are constantly working to improve their services and introduce innovations that make traveling easier for everyone.
