Thai Airways Special Assistance Services Guide

For many, the joy of travel is mixed with anxiety, especially when navigating an international airport with special mobility needs. If you require a wheelchair or any extra care, your worry dissolves the moment a cheerful Thai Airways staff member greets you at the check-in counter and smoothly escorts you to your gate. This is the heart of the experience Thai Airways special assistance team aims to deliver with its services. This article details the comprehensive support available, from assistance for elderly passengers, pets, and medical conditions, ensuring every passenger can fly with peace of mind. So, let’s dive in! Explore the available Thai Airways special assistance services mentioned below;

Thai Airways Special Assistance for Travelling with Infants:

With the Thai Airways special assistance team, you do not have to feel overwhelmed while flying with your infant. Their policies and clear guidance will ensure a smooth trip for you and your baby.

Pre-Flight Preparations with Thai Airways When Travelling With An Infant 

To guarantee the best experience and necessary facilities like bassinets for your child, you need to contact Thai Airways’ local reservation and ticketing officers about their attendance well before your departure.

Infant Travel Policy and Guidelines On Thai Airways

Here is what you need to know: 

• Bassinet Eligibility: Your baby is eligible for a bassinet if they are under 6 months of age. Their height and weight shouldn’t exceed 67 cm and 10 kgs respectively. 

• FAA-Approved Car Seat: Children under two years old may use an FAA-approved car seat, which requires the purchase of a dedicated seat at the child’s fare.

• Takeoff and Landing: All infants and toddlers must be held in an adult’s lap during the aircraft’s takeoff and landing phases.

Thai Airways’ Essential Flying Conditions

Here are some essential rules to note to prevent any hassle or inconvenience in future. 

• Children with chronic disease:

You must consult a physician before your child with a chronic disease flies, as they may face a risk of hypoxia (low oxygen) during the flight.

• Children with Morning Sickness:

If your child struggles with motion sickness, you can use medication; just remember to give it 30 minutes before the flight’s departure time. 

Rules for Infants in Business Class:

The Business Class cabin of the Boeing 787-9 (7891 and 78W1) features airbag seat belts. As a result of this safety equipment, the policy is not to allow lap-held infants unless they are secured in an approved child restraint system (CRS).

• Only infants in their own seat with an approved Child Restraint System (CRS) are accepted.
  
• Parents/guardians must bring their own approved CRS for use onboard.
  
• Belt extenders are available on the aircraft for additional safety.
  
• Exception: Lap-held infants may be accepted in Business Class using the infant loop belt provided onboard.

How to Prepare Infants for a Thai Airways Flight?

When you have an infant onboard there are some precautionary measures to take to ensure their safety. 

• Clothing: 

You must dress your infant warmly, as maintaining a comfortable body temperature requires adequate layers to account for a cool cabin environment.

• Age: 

You must avoid flying during the first 7-14 days of life. This initial period is critical for a newborn’s adjustment and for pediatric screening to ensure the child is free of underlying health issues. Healthy infants who are 14 days old and above are eligible to fly with an adult. 

• Ear Pain Prevention: 

To prevent the ear pain caused by changing cabin pressure, particularly during descent, use a feeding or soothing technique. Therefore, you must have the baby suck on a pacifier, breastfeed, or take a bottle to help them swallow, which equalizes the air pressure in the middle ear.

Thai Airways Special Assistance for Travelling with Pets:

Thai Airways’ special assistance team accepts certified guide and assistance dogs supporting passengers who are visually or hearing impaired on flights to designated locations. This policy is created to maintain the passenger’s comfort and independence. Moreover, you must ensure all necessary documentation is completed and that quarantine rules for all entry and transit locations are met. 

Thai Airways’ Booking and Fees Rules:

Thai Airways offers this service completely free of charge, ensuring added comfort and ease. To guarantee that all necessary arrangements are in place smoothly, you are advised to contact their nearest Thai Airways office at least 48 hours before departure. This advance notice helps the airline serve you better.

Explaining Thai Airways’ Pets in Cabin (PETC) Policy:

Thai Airways allows service, escort, and emotional support dogs in the cabin under its Special Assistance Policy for Pets in Cabin (PETC). This is a crucial exception, as standard pets are otherwise not permitted due to safety and regulatory requirements. Thai Airways understands that these animals are vital for the passengers who depend on them. Here is a breakdown of the policy.

Escorts Dogs:

Thai Airways permits all essential escort dogs, like guide and hearing dogs, to travel in the cabin with their owners at no additional cost. These highly trained animals are crucial for assisting passengers with visual and hearing impairment. To ensure continuous support and a safe experience, the dog must stay with its owner for the entire flight, from the moment you board until you reach your destination.

Thai Airways Service/Assistance Dogs Policy:

Thai Airways allows service or assistance dogs to travel free of charge only on specific routes:

• Flights to/from Europe, as per the European Union Law
  
• Flights to or from the United States as per the DOT Regulations 

These dogs must support passengers with disabilities, such as:

• Seizure detection.
  
• Managing heart conditions.
  
• Assisting with diabetes control.
  

Keep in mind these requirements:

• Your pets are advised to wear a harness during the flight.
  
• For flights over 8 hours, documentation may be required confirming the dog will not need to relieve itself or cause sanitation issues onboard.
  
• Dogs must always remain under the passenger’s control and provide genuine service.

Thai Airways’ Emotional Support Dog Policy:

At Thai Airways, emotional support dogs are permitted only on flights between Bangkok and Los Angeles without any additional charge, in accordance with US DOT regulations .

Documentation required: 

A letter from a licensed mental health professional stating:

• The dog is needed for the passenger keeping his or her psychological or emotional state in mind
  
• Confirmation that it is essential to have the dog onboard 
• The letter must be no older than one year at the time of travel.

Important Points to Remember:

• Dogs have to be well-behaved and stay under the control of the passenger always.
• The dog cannot occupy a seat and has to remain close to the passenger, never at an emergency exit row.
  
• During the flight, the dog must be harnessed at all times.
  
• Passengers with disabilities can carry their escort, assistance, or emotional support dog on flights to/from the USA.

Therefore, Thai Airways maintains a strict no-pets-in-cabin policy; exceptions are granted exclusively based on the terms and conditions outlined above.

Pets as Checked Baggage on Thai Airways:

Thai Airways offers a pet carriage service (AVIH) allowing passengers to check in and then get to the passenger terminals of both departure and arrival airports for collecting their pets.

• Pets travel safely in the aircraft hold, located just beneath the passenger cabin, in a temperature-controlled environment for their comfort.
  
• Travelers should contact their local Thai Airways office to confirm the specifications for portable cages or aircraft holds suitable for pets.
  
• Restrictions apply on certain routes due to quarantine or regulatory requirements: Auckland, Denpasar, Dubai, and Hong Kong.
  
• Pets cannot travel on flights to/from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, or on A320-operated flights.
  
• For London routes, AVIH over 32 kg per piece must be transported via cargo.

Thai Airways’ Restriction on Snub-Nosed and Other Brachycephalic Dog Breeds:

Thai Airways’ policy does not permit the transport of 34 specific dog breeds as checked baggage. This is for the safety and well-being of these special types of pets. Additionally, for information regarding cargo acceptance, you need to contact Thai Airways’ Cargo Department directly. Some of them include Affeninscher, American Pit Bull Terrier, Boston Terrier, Chow Chow, English Bulldog, English Toy Spaniel, Tibetan Spaniel etc. 

Thai Airways’ Travel Tips for Elderly Passengers:

For elderly passengers, it might bring concerns about comfort and safety. However, Thai Airways offers few practical steps, so seniors can relax and truly enjoy their trip. Keep these important points in mind:

Preparation for Air Travel:

This is what you should keep in mind: 

• Choose destinations wisely: When planning your trip, pick places with easy access to hospitals or clinics. Remote areas might look fun but can become tricky during health emergencies.

• Consult your doctor: Before booking flights, have a chat with your family doctor. They will guide you on safe travel plans, medications, or vaccinations you might need.

• Carry essential medication: Always pack your prescribed medicines in hand luggage. Especially for chronic conditions, keeping them close avoids risks if checked baggage gets delayed or misplaced.

• Pack smart: Dress right for the weather at your destination. Comfortable, climate-appropriate clothing makes traveling smoother and prevents issues like overheating, chills, or unnecessary exhaustion.

• Review health insurance: Double-check your insurance policy before flying. Confirm it covers international travel, unexpected medical expenses, or emergencies so you’re never caught unprepared abroad.

During the Flight:

When you are onboard, remember to adhere to these conditions as mentioned below: 

• Move around regularly: You need to take short walks down the aisle or stretch at your seat; it keeps blood flowing and prevents uncomfortable clots.

• Stay hydrated: Keep sipping water throughout your journey and skip alcohol or coffee, since they dry you out and cause fatigue.
  

At the Destination:

Upon reaching your destination here are the things to do: 

• Avoid excessive sun exposure: Elderly travelers are more prone to dehydration, so stay shaded and cool.
  
• Prevent constipation: Increase water intake or use mild laxatives if required.
  
• Maintain food and water hygiene: Be cautious about meals and drinks to prevent stomach issues.
  
• Rest well: Give your body time to adjust to the local time zone.
  
• Practice good hygiene: Keep your skin clean to prevent chances of infection. .

Thai Airways’ In-Flight Health and Well-being:

Before international travel, Thai Airways special assistance team suggests scheduling a medical examination. It is recommended that travelers verify if they have received the required vaccinations, get guidance on health precautions relevant to the destination, and get ready for any illnesses that might arise while traveling. This extra step helps prevent unpleasant surprises mid-flight.

How to Stay Comfortable on Thai Airways Flight?

When you travel by air, you might experience stress, abdominal discomfort, jet lag, ear pain, sinus pressure, body ache, air sickness, and, at times even deep vein thrombosis. That’s why Thai Airways suggests;

• Mind Your Diet: Stick to light meals both before and during your flight to prevent stomach discomfort.

• Stay Calm: Practice deep breathing and relaxation; this helps reduce stress, which can trigger stomach acid and bloating.

• Hydrate Smart: Sip on water or juice often. Skip alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.

• Moisturize: Keep your skin from drying out by applying moisturizer regularly.

• Dress for Comfort: Wear loose clothing, take your shoes off, and move around the cabin to maintain circulation.

• Stretch: Follow the in-flight exercise recommendations to keep your body supple.

• Prevent Motion Sickness: Talk to your doctor about medication for airsickness, and try to focus on a fixed object if the flight gets bumpy.

• Keep Clean: Maintain good personal hygiene by washing your hands often.

• Consult a Doctor: If you are prone to air sickness, it’s best to consult a doctor before your trip. For in-flight relief during turbulence, try a simple trick: focus your eyes on a fixed, stable point.

Furthermore, on Thai Airways, if you are diabetic with well-managed conditions, you can travel easily by adjusting your insulin and meal schedules to match the new time zone. If you take insulin, you must inform your airline before departure and carry a medical certificate in English to bring syringes and needles onto the plane.

Pressure-Related Health Hazards:

Low humidity and changes in cabin pressure can trigger issues such as ear pain, sinus congestion, or the familiar “ear popping” during descent. To minimize discomfort, you need to follow steps mentioned below:

• Drink fluids throughout the flight
  
• Use nasal sprays or decongestants about 30 minutes before departure
  
• Practice frequent swallowing, chewing, or the gentle Valsalva maneuver to relieve ear pressure.

Thai Airways’ Guide to Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Long flights carry the risk of a condition called DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis), often simply called “economy class syndrome.” DVT is essentially a blood clot that develops in a deep leg vein. It is caused by the combination of prolonged sitting, dry cabin air, and reduced oxygen. The hazard is that this clot can travel to the lungs, causing a serious complication known as a pulmonary embolism.

Recognizing DVT Symptoms:

DVT doesn’t always show immediate signs, and symptoms may appear even after the flight. You should watch for:

• Soreness or pain in the calf
  
• Swelling around the ankles or calf 
• Mild fever or general discomfort
  

Who is at Risk of DVT?

Passengers with the following risk factors should be especially cautious:

• Age over 40
  
• Previous history of blood clots
  
• Those with a recent surgery, particularly in the pelvic, abdomen or leg area
  
• Prolonged immobility
  
• Blood clotting disorders
  
• Pregnancy or recent childbirth
  
• Cancer or cardiovascular disease
  
• Estrogen hormone therapy or oral contraceptive use
  
• Smoking, obesity, or varicose veins
  

Safety Precautions with Thai Airways To Minimize DVT

Thai Airways special assistance team encourages passengers to take simple but effective steps to reduce their DVT risk:

• You should wear loose, comfortable clothing during flights
  
• You can consider graduated compression stockings
  
• You need to stay hydrated, drink water often and limit alcohol or caffeine
  
• Keep space under the seat clear for leg movement
  
• You need to walk around the cabin periodically
  
• Try in-seat exercises as recommended in-flight
  
• High-risk passengers should consult a doctor before travel; preventive measures like aspirin or low molecular weight heparin may be advised
  

Thai Airways’ Onboard Medical Assistance:

For medical emergencies, Thai Airways’ cabin crew members receive regular training in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), enabling them to respond quickly. If needed, they may also request help from an onboard medical professional.

To handle health-related incidents, the aircraft is equipped with:

• First-aid kits, for use by trained crew.
  
• Medical kits (white and black), designed for onboard doctors or with defibrillator use.
  
• Automatic External Defibrillator (AED),  for cardiac emergencies.
  
• Wheelchairs (on long-haul flights), to support passengers with mobility needs.

Safety with Hot Beverages:

Hot drinks are a comfort during flights, but they can also pose risks if not handled properly. To avoid accidental spills and potential injuries:

• If your cup is on a tray: 

Please allow the flight attendant to complete the pour entirely. Wait until they are finished before carefully lifting the cup.

• If you are holding your cup: 

Please continue to hold the cup by the handle until the flight attendant has finished pouring the hot liquid before taking it back. This way you may avoid spillage and injury. 

Also Read: Thai Airways Wheelchair Assistance

Avoiding the Cabin Floor on Thai Airways:

Passengers on long-haul flights, in particular, should be aware that lying on the cabin floor around seating areas poses a serious threat to their personal safety, despite any desire to change position.Thai Airways strongly advises against it due to:

• Health concerns: Dust particles may trigger allergies or breathing issues.
  
• Reduced oxygen flow: Air circulation is less effective at floor level.
  
• Injury risk: Sudden turbulence can cause serious harm if passengers are in contact with seat or floor structures.

Conclusion

Thai Airways is more than simply an airline; it is a full-service travel companion, especially for people who need extra help. They guarantee that every traveler feels safe and supported, regardless of whether they are an old person, a family with a baby, a pet owner, or someone with a medical problem. The airline eliminates all possible travel complications by combining carefully planned policies, attentive employees, and well planned services. Thai Airways makes traveling easier and more comfortable for everyone, regardless of their circumstances, genuinely fulfilling its promise of care, safety, and hospitality.

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