Air Transat Special Assistance – How to Request Wheelchair

Traveling by air can be stressful for anyone, but it can present additional challenges for passengers with mobility issues, medical needs, or other specific requirements. Air Transat recognizes this and has implemented various special assistance services to ensure that all passengers can travel with ease, comfort, and dignity. Whether you’re looking for support with mobility, medical equipment, or special seating arrangements, Air Transat is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of its passengers. Passengers can request assistance 72 hours before their journey online or through customer service. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Air Transat’s special assistance services, from requesting support to the specific types of help available, and how to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Overview of Air Transat’s Special Assistance Program

At its core, Air Transat’s special assistance program is designed to meet the diverse needs of passengers with permanent or temporary disabilities, chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, sensory impairments, and developmental or cognitive challenges. The goal is to remove barriers and ensure safe, accessible, and worry-free travel. The airline follows Canadian and international accessibility regulations, including the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (ATPDR), and works closely with airport partners to deliver services at every stage of the passenger journey. But these aren’t just policies; they’re practical, real-world support systems that can be life-changing for travelers who need them.

Key Special Assistance Services Offered by Air Transat

Here are some of the special assistance services offered by Air Transat.

Wheelchair Assistance

One of the most requested services from passengers requiring special assistance is Air Transat Wheelchair Assistance. Air Transat offers a variety of options to help passengers who have difficulty moving through the airport. This includes both manual and electric wheelchairs to accommodate different needs.

• Booking Wheelchair Assistance: Passengers can request wheelchair assistance at the time of booking or by contacting Air Transat’s customer service up to 72 hours before the flight. Early notification ensures that the airline has sufficient time to arrange the service and ensure a smooth travel experience.
• Assistance During the Journey: Once at the airport, staff will assist you from check-in to security clearance, then through the boarding process and onto the aircraft. The same assistance is provided upon arrival, with staff available to help you disembark and retrieve any mobility aids.

Medical Assistance

Air Transat understands the importance of medical assistance for passengers traveling wih specific health conditions. Whether you require the use of medical equipment like a CPAP machine or oxygen during your flight, or if you need a seat with medical support, the airline has provisions in place to meet these needs.

• Oxygen and Medical Equipment: If any passenger requires oxygen or any other medical device during the flight, they must inform Air Transat at least 72 hours in advance. Passengers may need to provide medical clearance or a doctor’s note to ensure that they are fit to fly and that the equipment can be safely accommodated on the aircraft.
• In-Flight Support: Onboard, Air Transat’s cabin crew is trained to provide basic support for medical needs, including assistance with devices like oxygen tanks or administering medications (in some cases). However, it’s important to note that certain medical procedures may require the presence of a travel companion to provide more intensive care.
• Traveling with Medical Devices: Air Transat allows you to bring medical devices such as CPAP machines, ventilators, or nebulizers in the cabin free of charge, as long as they meet the airline’s safety standards and have been pre-approved.

Service Animals

Air Transat is committed to ensuring that passengers with disabilities can travel with their service animals. Certified service animals are allowed to accompany passengers in the cabin at no extra charge. To travel with a service animal, you must provide documentation proving that the animal is certified.

• Notification and Documentation:  When booking your flight, inform Air Transat that you will be traveling with a service animal. You’ll need to submit appropriate documentation to verify the animal’s certification and suitability to travel.
• Animal Care on Board: Service animals are seated on the floor in front of your seat, and you are responsible for ensuring the animal behaves during the flight. Air Transat staff will be available to assist with any needs related to your animal during the journey.

Special Seating and Priority Boarding

For passengers who need extra space or specific accommodations, Air Transat offers special seating options. This can include aisle seats, extra legroom, or priority boarding.

• Requesting Special Seating: To request special seating, you should contact Air Transat during the booking process or later by reaching their customer service team. It’s important to specify any preferences you have for your seat so that they can make the necessary arrangements.
• Priority Boarding: Passengers who need assistance with mobility or have medical conditions are eligible for priority boarding. This allows you to board the plane early and settle in without the rush of other passengers.

Special Meals: Dietary and Medical Needs

For passengers with dietary restrictions or medical conditions that require a special diet, Air Transat offers a range of special meal options. This includes meals for passengers with gluten intolerance, diabetic needs, or food allergies.

• Meal Requests: Special meals should be requested at least 72 hours before your flight. You can do this when booking your flight or by contacting Air Transat’s customer service.

How to Request Special Assistance with Air Transat?

The process for requesting special assistance is simple, but it’s important to plan to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you request special assistance with Air Transat:

1. Request Assistance at Booking: The best time to request special assistance is when you book your flight. You can do this through the Air Transat website (www.airtransat.com) or by calling their customer service team. Be sure to specify your exact needs (e.g., wheelchair assistance, medical equipment, special meals, etc.).
2. Provide Necessary Documentation: Depending on your needs, you may need to provide medical documentation or certification for your service animal. Make sure to prepare and submit these documents at least 72 hours before your flight to ensure that Air Transat has enough time to accommodate your needs.
3. Confirm Details 48 Hours Before Travel: It’s always a good idea to call Air Transat 48 hours before your flight to confirm that all your special assistance needs are in place. This will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is ready for your journey.

Instructions to follow for preparing for the Flight

Here are some necessary instructions that should be taken care of when the passenger prepares for their flight.

Arriving at the Airport

When traveling with special assistance, arriving early at the airport is crucial. Air Transat recommends arriving at least 3 hours before your flight’s departure time for international flights, and 2 hours for domestic flights.

• Check-in and Assistance: Upon arrival, head to the special assistance desk at the airport. You will be checked in for your flight and directed to the appropriate area for your needs. Airport staff will guide you through security, assist with boarding, and ensure that your journey is as smooth as possible.
• Special Seating and Mobility: If you’ve requested special seating or need assistance with mobility, inform the staff at the special assistance desk. They will guide you to your seat or help you with any other requirements.

Medical Equipment

If you are traveling with medical equipment, make sure it is clearly labeled and that you have the appropriate medical clearance or doctor’s note. When you check in, notify the staff about any medical devices you are carrying.

• Security Checks: Medical devices may need to be inspected during the security screening process, so ensure you have the necessary paperwork and that your devices are accessible.

In-Flight Assistance

• Cabin Crew Support: Air Transat’s cabin crew is trained to assist passengers with a variety of special needs. From providing help with seating arrangements to offering basic support for medical equipment, the crew is there to ensure that you have a comfortable flight.
• Seating Adjustments: If you require any seating adjustments during the flight, such as moving to a more comfortable position or adjusting the location of medical equipment, let the crew know. They will do their best to accommodate your needs.
• Personal Assistance: If you need help with eating, drinking, or any other personal tasks during the flight, the cabin crew will assist where possible. However, it’s important to remember that they cannot perform medical procedures or tasks that require licensed medical personnel.

Upon Arrival at Your Destination

After you land, Air Transat’s staff will assist you with disembarking and retrieving your mobility devices or medical equipment. If you need help navigating the airport or collecting your baggage, staff will be on hand to assist you.

• Baggage Claim: Special assistance extends to baggage claim, where staff will help retrieve any items or medical devices you need.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Special Assistance Experience

To help ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey when using Air Transat’s special assistance services, follow these practical tips:

• Request Assistance Early: Submit any special assistance requests at least 72 hours before your flight. This gives Air Transat enough time to make necessary arrangements, whether it’s for wheelchair service, in-flight oxygen, or boarding help.
• Prepare Essential Documents: Keep important paperwork with you, including medical certificates, prescriptions, and service animal documents. These may be required at check-in or during the flight, so store them in your carry-on.
• Arrive at the Airport in Advance: Get to the airport at least three hours before an international flight. Early arrival gives you ample time for check-in, security, and communicating any last-minute needs with airport staff.
• Label Equipment Clearly: If you’re traveling with a wheelchair, walker, or medical device, attach a label with your full name, contact information, and handling instructions to avoid confusion or mishandling.
• Pack Smart in Your Carry-On: Keep essentials like medications, batteries, travel documents, and snacks in your carry-on bag. If your checked luggage is delayed or lost, you’ll still have access to your most important items.

Check the complete list of Air Transat terminals locations at airports worldwide to save time and catch your flight with ease.

Conclusion

Air Transat is committed to making travel as comfortable and accessible as possible for all passengers. With a wide range of special assistance services, from wheelchair support to assistance for passengers with medical needs, Air Transat ensures that your journey is stress-free and dignified. By planning and communicating your needs, you can enjoy a smooth experience, from booking your flight to arriving at your destination. 

Whether you require medical equipment, a service animal, or simply extra assistance with mobility, Air Transat’s dedicated staff is ready to help. Their goal is to make sure that all travelers, regardless of their individual needs, can enjoy safe, inclusive, and hassle-free air travel. With the right preparation and support, you can rest easy knowing that your journey with Air Transat will be comfortable, respectful, and fully accommodating.

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