El Al Wheelchair Assistance

Are you planning a trip with El Al and need a little extra help with a wheelchair? At EL AL, they are honored to provide caring and reliable wheelchair assistance to passengers needing extra help during their travels. Whether you require assistance getting through check-in, security, or reaching your departure gate, their staff of skilled experts is committed to helping you every step of the way. 

Their goal is to ensure that your journey is not only smooth but also safe and cozy. You may concentrate on the joy of your vacation, knowing that they will take care of the details with compassion and efficiency. With EL AL wheelchair assistance, every traveler receives the attentive care they deserve.

What You Need to Know About El Al Wheelchair Assistance?

El Al wheelchair assistance helps passengers with reduced mobility free of charge. It’s crucial to inform them of your needs immediately after booking, specifying if you require a wheelchair at the airport and on the aircraft for both outbound and return flights. You can provide details about your wheelchair type, size, and weight.

El Al ground/air crew will help you reach boarding/arrival gates, aircraft seats, store your hand luggage, and access the toilet using a narrow wheelchair (booked in advance). They also assist with a wheelchair or buggy to the arrival hall at Ben Gurion Airport. You can use the El Al wheelchair assistance contact number to connect with them via phone, email (nagish@elal.co.il), or their website for any special requests or concerns.

Wheelchair Assistance During Flights:

El Al staff will assist with:

• Boarding and disembarkation:

El Al staff provide personal assistance during the boarding and disembarkation process, helping passengers with mobility challenges safely enter and exit the aircraft with comfort and confidence.

• Reaching your seat:

Trained El Al personnel are available to guide and assist you in reaching your assigned seat onboard, ensuring ease of movement through the aircraft aisle and minimizing any inconvenience.

• Storing hand luggage:

El Al staff can help lift and securely stow your hand luggage in the overhead compartments or under the seat, making sure your belongings are accessible and safely stored.

• Escorting to/from the aircraft restroom:

For passengers requiring restroom access, El Al offers escort service using a specially designed narrow onboard wheelchair, available with pre-booking to ensure timely, comfortable assistance during the flight.

However, they cannot assist with:

• Lifting or carrying passengers: 

Only when equipped with the right tools and safety measures may staff assist with lifting or carrying passengers, maintaining dignity, and preventing harm to the passenger and the helping staff.

• Medication administration and feeding: 

Although airline or airport employees often do not help with these essential medical or personal duties, passengers can hire personal assistants or companions to assist.

• Assistance in the restroom: 

For privacy and security concerns, staff are not allowed to help passengers use the restroom; passengers who require this assistance should travel with a companion or personal care assistant.

El Al Wheelchair Assistance At Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv):

Here are some points to note: 

• To ensure personalized El Al Wheelchair assistance, travelers with special needs are encouraged to check in at Sector D’s designated counters 98 and 99 at Terminal 3. Desk 302 at Terminal 1 offers comparable services. These special counters expedite the check-in procedure and offer travelers with disabilities the support they require.

• The Airports Authority offers assistance to travelers who need mobility assistance from the terminal entrance to the check-in area. Upon arrival, passengers should report to the assigned service station. Those who want escorted assistance at facility 3 should go to Gate 32, where experienced staff will ensure an effortless trip through the facility.

• Passengers with disabilities can use the wheelchairs located close to the check-in counters. Additionally, depending on availability, buggy shuttle services are available within the terminal. Children less than five years of age aren’t allowed to ride the buggy. Long walking distances can be covered with the aid of these electric carts. Please be aware that due to safety regulations, children less than five are not allowed to ride the buggy.

Steps to Request El Al Wheelchair Assistance:

Here is how you can request wheelchair assistance at EL AL. 

• Passengers who need El Al wheelchair assistance should notify the airline as soon as they complete their flight booking. 
• Early notice gives the airline enough time to set up the assistance required to guarantee a comfortable and easy journey. Passengers must make their request no later than 48 hours before the planned departure to ensure availability. 
• This free service covers help at several stages of the journey, including check-in, security checks, boarding, and disembarkation, as well as assistance throughout the flight if necessary. 
• To guarantee that all accommodations are made well before the scheduled departure date, EL AL supports early communication and is dedicated to making flying accessible and comfortable for all passengers with restricted mobility.

What are the Contact Options?

Here are ways to contact EL AL to request wheelchair assistance services: 

• WhatsApp:
  You use the El Al WhatsApp number to message +972-3-9771111 and type “Request 15670” to specifically ask for wheelchair assistance when flying with EL AL Airlines.

• Facebook Messenger:
  Reach out through EL AL’s official Facebook page for support, inquiries, or help with travel accommodations for disabled passengers.

• Email:
  Send booking inquiries for disabled passengers directly to nagish@elal.co.il for prompt and accessible assistance from EL AL’s dedicated team.

• U.S. Toll-Free Number:
  You can call 1-800-223-6700 toll-free from the U.S. to speak with EL AL customer service about accessibility or booking support.

Important Booking Considerations Regarding EL AL’s Wheelchair Assistance Services 

Here are some aspects to consider: 

• When booking, you need to provide El Al with your wheelchair’s type (manual or electric), full dimensions, and total weight to ensure proper storage arrangements and a smooth travel experience without delays at check-in.

• If your mobility device uses a battery, you need to inform El Al in advance. Include battery type and handling instructions to meet safety regulations and ensure your equipment is transported securely.

• If you have any new or changing medical issues, let El Al know at least 48 hours before your departure. This enables them to set up the proper support or, if required, medical clearance.

• If you have special dietary requirements or are traveling with a guide dog, let El Al know in advance. Your service animal and meal needs will be appropriately accommodated onboard if you give advance notice.

Travel Preparation Tips:

Here are some tips to consider: 

• To access El Al wheelchair assistance, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and any necessary assistance. 
• Mobility devices like crutches, canes, white canes, or foldable walkers are allowed for passengers with impairments as long as they can be securely stored in the airplane cabin.
• It is advised to visit the Airport Authority’s official Website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on accessibility services offered at the airport where you are departing.
• In addition, if your plan involves a connecting journey on a different airline, make sure to check that airline’s accessibility policy beforehand, since different airlines may have different needs and services.

El Al Special Assistance for Passengers with Disabilities:

El Al Airlines is dedicated to providing every traveler, especially those with disabilities, a secure and comfortable journey. El Al special assistance offers tailored help at every step of your journey, regardless of whether you need physical mobility assistance, are hearing impaired, or are visually impaired.

• Support for Visually Impaired Passengers:

To make sure that all required arrangements are made, El Al suggests that passengers who are blind or visually impaired contact the airline beforehand. When passengers arrive at the airport, they should go to Area D’s service counters 98–99, where El Al employees will guide them through the airport, including duty-free zones.

• Safety procedure briefings:

El Al’s trained staff provide clear, personalized safety instructions to ensure passengers understand emergency protocols and feel confident during the flight.

• Help with boarding and disembarking:

Their dedicated crew members assist with entering and exiting the aircraft safely, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all passengers, including those with mobility needs.

• Storage assistance for personal equipment:

Their staff helps secure personal items like wheelchairs or medical gear, ensuring safe storage and easy access throughout the journey.

• Ongoing flight information updates:

Passengers receive real-time updates on flight status, delays, gate changes, and arrivals, ensuring they stay informed and stress-free during travel.

• Special Assistance for Passengers with Hearing Impairments:

Passengers with hearing impairments are advised to reach out to El Al’s Service Center via WhatsApp at +972-3-9771111. Start your message with “Request 15670” for faster El Al special assistance. El Al provides:

• Flight attendants provide personal safety briefings and essential flight details to ensure passengers with hearing loss remain informed and secure.
  
  Designated checkpoints offer hearing loop systems compatible with T-mode hearing aids, ensuring clearer communication for travelers with hearing impairments.
  
• Airlines provide earpiece-compatible devices onboard, enabling passengers using alternative hearing aids to receive clear safety announcements and communication.
  
• In-flight safety videos include subtitles in Hebrew, English, Russian, and Arabic, ensuring multilingual accessibility for passengers with hearing difficulties.

Flying with Medical Equipment on EL AL – What You Need to Know:

Here are some aspects to consider for passengers with medical equipment of EL AL flights

• EL AL is dedicated to supporting passengers who need to travel with medical or health-related equipment, such as CPAP machines, oxygen devices, or stretchers. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, travelers must follow specific guidelines and receive approval where necessary.

• EL AL provides lists of approved oxygen equipment and medical devices permitted on board. These can be found on their official website. If you’re flying with a CPAP device for essential medical reasons, ensure it is approved by EL AL. Complete the necessary declaration form and present it during check-in. 

• If your device is not on the approved list, contact EL AL’s Flight Medical Department at least 48 hours before departure via phone (03-9771001) or email (medadep@elal.co.il). Also, verify that your device is compatible with the aircraft’s electrical system.

• Please note that EL AL does not guarantee continuous in-flight power, and Sun Dor flights do not offer in-seat power outlets. It is strongly recommended to bring backup batteries that are approved for air travel.

• For all medical equipment use, passengers must obtain prior approval from EL AL’s MEDA department. Keep in mind that these guidelines apply only to EL AL-operated flights; codeshare flights follow the policy of the operating airline.

• Lastly, seating may be adjusted to accommodate equipment use. Passengers are responsible for their devices and should contact the airline in advance with any specific needs or concerns.

Also Read: AirAsia Wheelchair Assistance

Special Assistance for Pregnant Women While Flying:

Flying while pregnant is generally safe, however, airlines like EL AL provide clear guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of both the expectant mother and her unborn child. Knowing the rules of El Al special assistance is essential for an enjoyable trip.

• General Guidelines for Flying While Pregnant:

Healthy pregnant women without complications can fly up to four weeks before their due date, until the end of the 35th week of pregnancy. 

However, starting the 28th week, you will have to show a medical certificate. This certificate needs to be obtained within 48 hours before departure and must contain important information like the week of pregnancy. As long as it does not happen after the 36th week, it must also be valid for the return trip.

Only medically necessary flights may be taken by women in their 36th or 37th week, and further authorization from EL AL’s chief physician or a reliable medical officer is required. After the 38th week or if difficulties, including multiple deliveries or unclear due dates, are anticipated, flying is prohibited.

• Post-Birth Travel: 

During the first seven days following childbirth, flying is generally prohibited. Approval from an EL AL physician is required if needed.

• Important Notes for Other Airlines: 

Due to varying medical permissions, pregnant passengers must make direct reservations with the operating airline for codeshare or other carrier flights.

• In-Flight Tips for Pregnant Travelers:

To make your journey more comfortable and safe:

• Travel Insurance: 

Get a medical insurance policy that includes coverage for pregnancy.

• Choose the Right Seat: 

Book an aisle seat to allow movement and easier access to the restroom. Avoid emergency exit rows, as passengers seated there must perform physical tasks during emergencies—something not advisable during pregnancy.

• Dress for Comfort: 

Wear compression stockings to help with blood circulation and massage your feet occasionally.

• Seatbelt Use: 

Fasten the belt low on the hips or high above the belly—never tightly across the stomach.

• Hydration & Diet: 

Drink plenty of water, avoid carbonated drinks, and bring snacks, gum, and anti-nausea medication.

• Companion Travel: 

If you’re over 28 weeks pregnant, it’s best to travel with a companion, and if possible, book the seat next to you for added support.

• Flight Timing: 

Choose a flight that allows for a good night’s rest beforehand.

Conclusion:

El Al Airlines is dedicated to providing passengers with special needs and disabilities with considerate, comprehensive assistance. El Al makes sure that your trip is easy, considerate, and well-supported, regardless of whether you are traveling while pregnant, using a wheelchair, or flying with medical equipment. Travelers can have a safe and comfortable flying experience by asking for help in advance and according to their explicit instructions. Every traveler may travel with confidence and accommodations due to El Al’s wheelchair assistance.

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