Air Canada Wheelchair Assistance – How to Request?

Air Canada is dedicated to create an air travel experience memorable for all passengers. For passengers with limited mobility, there are various services offered to provide a hassle-free journey. Air Canada Wheelchair Assistance is provided throughout the airport from pre-flight procedures to arrival, so you can ask for assistance throughout your journey.

Those passengers who are looking forward to wheelchair assistance can book through www.aircanada.com or call 1-800-667-4732. Air Canada has a dedicated staff or team who are available 24/7 to help passengers. Passengers are advised to apply for special assistance in advance, ensuring a safe and secure journey. It’s recommended to apply for this service at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure for smooth travel. This guide unfolds every necessary aspect you need to know about Wheelchair Assistance. 

Wheelchair Assistance Services offered by Air Canada

Here’s detailed information about the wheelchair assistance services provided by Air Canada. 

Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Air Canada offers three types of airport wheelchair assistance to meet passengers’ needs. Here are the types of wheelchair services from which the passengers can choose the option that suits them perfectly.

• WCHR (Wheelchair ramp assistance): If Passengers can walk for a short distance and can climb stairs, then they are provided with wheelchair ramp service, in which passengers will be assisted according to their needs. These services will be provided during check-in, security screening, and boarding procedures.
• WCHS (wheelchair steps assistance): If Passengers find difficulty climbing stairs but can walk short distances, then they are offered wheelchair assistance for stairs, in which Air Canada’s staff will help passengers during boarding, deplaning, and transferring between gates. Air Canada may use a stair lift, mechanical boarding chains in case of jet bridge unavailability.
• WCHC (Wheelchair cabin seat assistance): Passengers with complete immobility who need full-time wheelchair support even in the cabin, for them Air Canada provides stair lifts, boarding, and an onboard wheelchair to access the lavatory. If you are planning on bringing your wheelchair, it’s advisable to inform the airline beforehand to ensure the handling and storage of your wheelchair. You should also provide all related details, whether the wheelchair is manual or electric.

On-board Wheelchair Assistance

In the table given below, you’ll see the aircraft on which on-board wheelchairs are available on board. This specific table is for passengers so that they can choose the aircraft that matches their desired facilities.

How to Request Air Canada Wheelchair Assistance?

Passengers should apply for wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours in advance to avoid last-minute arrangements and the risk of unavailability. By following this step-by-step procedure, anyone can easily book wheelchair assistance.

• Passengers are recommended to apply for special assistance at the time of booking though the official website (www.aircanada.com/home/ca/en/aco/flights).
• While booking through the website, you’ll be on the “Who’s Traveling” page. Then click on the accessibility services, select wheelchair assistance, and provide all related details.
• Those requesting wheelchair assistance after booking a flight can visit the “Trips” link on homepage and provide booking details.
• After uploading all relevant details, scroll bottom and click the accessibility service to update the wheelchair assistance.
• Passengers who like to contact Air Canada directly by calling customer service at 1-800-667-4732, their Air Canada professional staff will guide them throughout the process to access wheelchair assistance.
• Passengers can even request wheelchair assistance at the Airport while booking a flight. After providing all related documents, passengers can access the wheelchair assistance services. It’s advisable to ask for assistance at least 48 hours before the flight.

Guidelines for Travelling with your Mobility Aids 

Air Canada supports passengers who like to bring their wheelchairs and provides them with guidance throughout the journey. Here are some guidelines for passengers who are looking to travel with their wheelchairs.

Small mobility aids 

Air Canada allows passengers to bring Small mobility aids such as walkers, crutches, and canes with no extra charges.

Manual wheelchairs 

If you are travelling with a manual wheelchair, you have to inform Air Canada at the time of booking so that they have enough time to arrange space to store and handle your wheelchair. Additionally, provide all required details such as wheelchair size and foldability.

Battery-powered wheelchairs 

If you are travelling with battery-powered wheelchairs, inform the airline in advance. You must also fill out the Powered mobility aid information form and provide all related documents. Passengers are required to arrive early and pack all the removable parts and carry them in their carry-on bags.

Size restrictions 

Before carrying your wheelchair, it’s important to know if it fits within the cargo doors. According to this table, you’ll know the size of the cargo doors and whether they fit or not.

Conclusion

Air Canada’s motive is to make travelling accessible for all its passengers. It provides them with necessary support and fulfills all their requirements, ensuring a comfortable and dignified journey with dedicated staff available at every step, as it aims to assist in the journey. Air Canada’s mission is to provide passengers with a lifetime seamless travelling experience, one that leaves a lasting impression and reflects its dignity and care.

Frequently Asked Questions