Air travel can be both exciting and stressful—but for passengers with limited mobility, it comes with added challenges. That’s where Air France Wheelchair Assistance comes in. This free service is designed to support travelers with mobility difficulties every step of the way, ensuring comfort, safety, and ease from check-in to arrival. Whether you're planning your first trip or you're a seasoned traveler with specific accessibility needs, this guide covers everything you need to know about using wheelchair assistance with Air France.
What Is Air France Wheelchair Assistance?
Air France Wheelchair Assistance is a complimentary service for passengers who need mobility support while traveling. It’s tailored to suit a wide range of needs—from travelers who need help walking long distances in the airport, to those who require full assistance boarding, deplaning, and moving through the cabin.
The service ensures:
- Mobility assistance from check-in to gate
- Priority boarding and deplaning
- Help with security procedures and baggage
- Trained staff assistance in terminals and on-board
It's designed to remove barriers and allow passengers with disabilities or mobility limitations to travel with dignity and independence.
Who Can Request Wheelchair Assistance?
This service is available to anyone experiencing:
- Temporary or permanent reduced mobility
- Age-related mobility issues
- Injuries requiring support
- Neuromuscular, skeletal, or joint conditions
- Use of wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, or crutches
You do not need to be a wheelchair user to benefit—if you simply need a bit more time or help, you’re eligible.
How to Request Air France Wheelchair Assistance
Requesting assistance is easy—but timing matters. Be sure to contact Air France at least 48 hours before your flight to ensure services are in place.
Step 1: During Ticket Booking
When purchasing your flight on the Air France website or app, look for the "Passenger with reduced mobility" option. You’ll be prompted to specify the type of help you need.
Step 2: After Booking
If you forgot to add it during booking, don’t worry. You can:
- Visit the “My Bookings” page to modify your reservation
- Call Air France's Special Assistance hotline
Be prepared to answer questions about your mobility level and whether you’ll be traveling with your own wheelchair or mobility aid.
Understanding the Levels of Assistance
Air France follows international standards to classify mobility needs:
- WCHR (Ramp): You can walk short distances and climb stairs but need a wheelchair in the airport.
- WCHS (Steps): You can walk short distances but cannot climb stairs.
- WCHC (Cabin): You require a wheelchair throughout the journey and help to your seat.
These distinctions help Air France staff plan appropriately—from arranging a boarding lift vehicle to ensuring an onboard aisle chair is ready.
Airport Experience with Wheelchair Assistance
Check-In
Assisted passengers are usually directed to a priority check-in lane or a dedicated accessibility desk. Staff will help tag your luggage, verify your assistance request, and process any personal mobility equipment you’re bringing.
Security and Pre-Boarding
You’ll receive help navigating security. Staff are trained to handle this process professionally, often allowing you to remain seated during checks. Afterward, you’ll be guided to the boarding gate and granted early boarding—giving you time to settle into your seat without pressure.
Deplaning
Upon arrival, you'll be among the first to disembark. Staff will meet you at the aircraft door or gate and assist you through customs, passport control, and baggage claim.
Bringing Your Own Wheelchair or Mobility Aid
Air France allows you to travel with up to two mobility devices for free, including:
- Manual wheelchairs
- Power chairs
- Mobility scooters
- Walkers or canes
Important Guidelines:
- Manual chairs may be used up to the aircraft door.
- Electric wheelchairs must meet battery and size regulations. You’ll need to inform the airline about battery type (lithium, dry cell, etc.) at least 48 hours in advance.
- Devices are loaded in the aircraft hold with special handling. Be sure to:
- Remove loose parts (like cushions or joysticks)
- Label all items clearly
- Provide handling instructions, if needed
Layovers and Transfers
If you have a connecting flight, especially through a large hub like Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Air France will arrange staff to guide and assist you from gate to gate.
To avoid stress:
- Choose flights with at least 90 minutes between connections
- Confirm assistance is scheduled for all flight segments
- Make sure your mobility equipment is tagged for final destination
In-Flight Comfort and Accessibility
While Air France does not offer fully wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, their long-haul aircraft are equipped with aisle chairs and seats with movable armrests to facilitate transfers.
Other services include:
- Pre-assigned seating based on accessibility
- Assistance with carry-on medical devices
- Use of onboard wheelchairs upon request
Note: Cabin crew are not permitted to assist with personal care (like feeding or lifting), but they are available to help with seat access, storing items, and safety needs.
Tips to Make Your Journey Smoother
To ensure a seamless travel experience with Air France Wheelchair Assistance, consider the following tips:
- Confirm Early: Always reconfirm your assistance 24–48 hours before departure.
- Document Everything: Carry a letter from your doctor if you have specific needs, and keep your wheelchair manual handy.
- Tag Your Equipment: Use waterproof name tags and include flight information.
- Arrive Early: Get to the airport earlier than usual—ideally 2.5 to 3 hours before your flight.
- Be Clear About Needs: When speaking to staff, communicate clearly whether you need help with boarding, transferring, or navigating the airport.
Your Rights as a Passenger with Reduced Mobility
As a passenger with a disability or reduced mobility, you are protected by several regulations, including:
- EU Regulation EC 1107/2006: Guarantees free airport and airline assistance within the EU
- U.S. Air Carrier Access Act (for U.S. routes): Prohibits discrimination and guarantees onboard support
This means:
- Assistance is free of charge
- Airlines must transport mobility devices with care
- You're entitled to compensation if your mobility device is damaged
If something goes wrong, file a complaint with Air France immediately and request a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before leaving the airport.
Final Thoughts: Travel with Dignity and Confidence
Flying with limited mobility doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and Air France’s well-organized wheelchair assistance services, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying your journey. From seamless check-in support to safe mobility device transport and onboard comfort, Air France Wheelchair Assistance ensures your travel experience is handled with professionalism, respect, and care. Plan ahead, know your rights, and travel confidently—because accessibility isn’t just a courtesy; it’s a commitment.