Most airlines around the world have specific supports available to help our community get airborne. Whether you want to fly with a wheelchair, have sensory challenges while flying, or have other concerns you need assistance with.
Booking your flight: Tips
- Tell the airline―or your travel agent―about your disability or what help you need.
- Ask about ‘special assistance services’.
- If booking online: Choose a ‘special requirements’ option, if provided.
Domestic flights
In Aoteaora New Zealand, our major two carriers Air New Zealand and Jetstar Airways provide these specific services for disabled passengers:
- Wheelchair users
- Blind or vision-impaired people
- Deaf or hearing-impaired people
- People travelling with a service dog
- People with reduced mobility due to age, illness or accident.
Sounds Air provides wheelchair assistance from check in to the aircraft and then back out again. They do require passengers with reduced mobility to be able to support their own bodyweight when getting on or off the airplane.
Sounds Air say they can't provide wheelchair lifts, this is quite common on small aircraft like theirs. They may be able to support power wheelchairs or scooters into the air, it's worth checking with them. They also offer the transport of oxygen cylinders when needed for medical reasons.
Services offered by each airline can vary, depending on the airline, airport, and plane. It’s best to contact the airline, or your travel agent, for details.
Air New Zealand services
Find out what help you can get when you fly with Air New Zealand. (external link)
Jetstar Airways services
Find out what help you can get when you fly with Jetstar. (external link)
Sounds Air
Contact Sounds Air to find out what support is available for your flight. (external link)
International airlines
If you wish to travel on another airline, it’s best to contact them about assistance for disabled passengers.
Look for their information around 'Specific Needs'.
First time flying as a wheelchair user?
- Check if it’s possible for you to fly (it depends on the aircraft and available equipment).
- Plan ahead. Contact the airline you plan to fly with.
- Allow plenty of time either side of your flight times.
Last updated on Monday, 8 July 2024