How Do I Request Wheelchair Access for My British Airways Flight?
If you need help requesting wheelchair access for your British Airways flight, the best option is to seek assistance from the Manage My Booking option. You may also contact the customer service agents on the phone or Twitter for help.
How Do I Request Wheelchair Access for My British Airways Flight?
If you need wheelchair access for your British Airways Flight, there are a few services that you can enjoy. You may receive assistance from airport operators or other service providers. They can arrange for:
1. Help getting up and down the stairs where necessary
2. An escort or assistance to and from your aircraft
3. Transportation for your wheelchair
Once you are in the aircraft, you can receive the following services:
1. Help finding your seat and familiarizing with the surrounding area
2. Movement from your seat to the washroom
3. The storage and retrieval of your hand baggage
However, you need to take care of the following:
1. The demands of your assistance dog
2. Personal care including taking medication and eating
3. Your personal care in the washroom
Consider traveling with a safety assistant if you need help for the following:
- Retrieving or fitting a life jacket
- Unfastening your seat belt
- Communicating with the crew about safety matters
- Lifting yourself in or out of the seat
- Reaching an emergency exit when necessary
If you need any type of wheelchair assistance or access, request it at least 48 hours before your flight departure.
How to Request Assistance
If you have a disability, the best way to seek assistance is by speaking to the British Airways Accessibility Team. After booking your flights, log in to your booking and specify the type of assistance you hope to receive. Find the ‘quick links' option in your booking and click on ‘Disability and mobility assistance.' Do this at least 48 hours before the departure time of your flight. Choose the type of assistance you wish to receive.
On the day you are traveling, arrive at the airport two hours before the departure time. That way, you will have enough time to explain your specific needs. Other tips to make your journey smoother include:
- Allow enough time for every stage of the journey, depending on your needs. Plan for possible delays and busy periods
- If you no longer need assistance, let
- If you have plans to meet the assistance staff, be punctual to minimize chances of delays
British Airways tries to make its services as accessible as possible to all travelers.
Traveling With Your Own Wheelchair
When traveling with your own wheelchair, keep the following tips in mind:
- Depending on your airport, you may be able to choose whether you want to give them your wheelchair during check-in or use it to the departure gate
- British Airways may store a collapsible manual wheelchair in the cabin. The wheelchair is allocated on a first come first served basis
- When checking in your wheelchair, remember to attach your contact information and tag
Contacting the Support Team
There are plenty of ways to contact British Airways if you need help. The best way to contact them is on the phone. You get the chance to speak directly with a customer service agent and get the help you need. If you don't necessarily need to speak with an agent, consider seeking support on Twitter. It may also give you the chance to get opinions from members of the public. The British Airways help forum has plenty of suggestions and targeted tips that could address your concerns.
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