Everyone deserves the best air travel. Your unique needs should never hinder your flying experience. One of the ways to go on a journey around the globe is by accessing the special services provided by flights to make traveling easier and more convenient. As you set out to travel the world, many airlines provide special assistance to passengers with any medical needs, requirements, or support. To adequately meet your needs and provide any service you may require, your airline must know in advance about any assistance you may require in flight. This article explains the different ways you can add special services to your flight reservation to ensure a smooth trip and jet off to explore the world.
Who May Require Special Assistance On a Flight?
Airlines should always be prepared to accommodate passengers with a wide range of needs. People who qualify for special assistance at the airport are typically passengers falling into the following groups:
- Visible and/or non-visible disabilities: All kinds of disabilities, whether visible or not, qualify for special assistance on a flight. This includes hidden disabilities such as cognitive impairments and individuals with anxiety, autism, and more.
- Passengers with reduced mobility: Any passenger who may require assistance to get around the airport and board their flight may need special assistance. In such cases, you will be provided with a wheelchair and extra help. This comprises WCHR (wheelchair for ramp), WCHS (wheelchair for steps), and WCHC (wheelchair for cabin)
- Any kind of medical condition: You should inform the airline of your medical conditions, especially any severe illnesses and allergies. Special medical assistance during flight includes in-flight medical equipment, special dietary meals, and oxygen.
- Sensory impairments: Passengers with visual or hearing impairments, such as those who are blind and/or deaf, may require special assistance, including guide dogs, escorts, safety briefings, and more.
- Unaccompanied minors: Children flying alone require supervision and assistance. An airline staff member also accompanies them from departure to arrival.
Ways to Add Special Services to a Flight Booking
You can add special services to your flight booking in a number of ways to travel in comfort and with peace of mind. Some of the ways to add special services to a flight booking are mentioned below.
1. Through the Online Website
You can request special assistance both during the initial flight booking and after making your flight booking online. The steps to add special assistance to your flight reservation for both methods are listed below.
During Booking:
- Go to your chosen airline's official website.
- Enter your destination, travel dates, and chosen cabin class.
- Find the flight that best fits your travel itinerary.
- When filling in the passenger details, look for "Special Assistance", "Special Service Request"/"SSRs", or "Add-Ons".
- Select special assistance and provide the required details.
After Booking:
- Go to your chosen airline's official website.
- Go to "Manage Booking" or "My Trips"
- Enter your booking reference number (PNR) and your last name to retrieve your flight booking.
- Check for Special Service Request/SSR or Add Services or Select Services.
- Check the available special assistance and select what you need.
- Confirm these changes and make any payments necessary for your service.
2. By Calling the Airline
You can also apply for special assistance at the airport by calling the airport directly. Make sure to call the airport at least 48 hours before your planned departure. You can find the customer support number for your chosen airline on their official website. By contacting customer support, you can get a human to resolve any doubts and queries you may have about the special services provided. This gives you a chance to clarify the medical equipment available, unlisted assistance, any necessary accommodations for special needs that can be made, etc.
3. At the Airport
If you can't call ahead to inform the airline about needing special assistance, you can also request help at the airport check-in desk on the day of your travel. Arrive early, go to your chosen airline's check-in counter, and tell the staff what assistance you need. Be sure to bring any documents the airline may require to verify your needs. Confirm your Special Service Request with the staff.
Final Thoughts
An efficient air travel system should be accessible to all, regardless of their needs. Special assistance ensures that your unique needs do not disrupt your flight experience. The article above expands on ways you can be provided with special assistance for your air travel. By applying for special assistance on your flight, you can set out to explore the world with confidence, comfort, and security.
