Avianca’s Special Assistance for Those with Intellectual Disability 

Avianca, one of Latin America’s leading airlines with over 50 years of experience providing global connectivity, is known not only for its extensive route network but also for its commitment to passenger care. It’s clear that the airline, beyond ensuring passengers’ comfortable travel, also provides for  a smooth and easy travel experience. 

Avianca makes sure that all their passengers have a comfortable travel, including those requiring special assistance. For neurodivergent individuals or passengers with intellectual disabilities, Avianca does its best to provide proper care and assistance so that they may fly in a hassle free way. 

How Will Individuals with Intellectual Disability Book Their Flight On Avianca?

Passengers with intellectual disability are recommended to request assistance at the time of their booking so that they have a trouble-free journey. Based on the booking channel you use, the airline offers several ways to assist you in making a service request.

• On avianca.com: While booking, when you reach the third step you will find the option “Accessibility and Assistance” in the third section. When you get there you have to choose “Do you have an intellectual disability or neurodivergent?”. By doing this, the airline can make the necessary adjustments in advance for you.
• At Avianca’s Sales Office or Their Contact Center: For individuals who prefer face-to-face interaction, direct assistance can be requested through Avianca’s Contact Center or at a sales office in your area. Please describe the assistance you require so the employee can accurately note it in your reservation.

It’s good to be aware that if a person requires assistance with hygiene, food, medication intake, or even comprehension of safety instructions during the flight, they need to be accompanied by a travel companion. Traveling with a companion for comfort and safety, and keeping in line with airline regulations, is a must since the crew members will not be able to help passengers with personal care. 

Things That Passengers with Intellectual Disability Travelling With Avianca Must Note Before Their Trip

Preparing in advance is really important if you want to travel without any stress. Avicanca suggests that travelers with mental disabilities should carry out these activities before their airport visit.

Request Assistance in Advance

If you have a reservation, it is better to ask for help at least 48 hours before your trip. Through the “Manage Your Booking” section on Avianca’s site, you can access your reservation by entering your last name and booking code. You will find the “What else can you do with your booking section? When you get there choose the Special Services option. 

Alternatively, you can even get in touch with Avianca Contact Center and inform them about the assistance that you require during the course of your travel. 

Bring Comfort Items

Carry things with you that will help you feel relaxed and safe during the whole trip which include books, music to listen to throughout the flight, sensory tools, or even an electronic device. You should even get a lanyard along that will indicate that you have a disability. With these things, waiting at the airport or being on the plane can be a lot easier.

Get Ready for Your Flight Digitally

Get the Avianca application either on the Play Store or on the App Store. By using the app, you are able to glance at flight schedules, do the web check-in, and also store your boarding pass. All these make it possible for you to bypass the long queues at the airport and have your travel details at your fingertips.

Baggage Check

Review Avianca’s baggage allowance guidelines, specifying the allowed dimensions, weight restrictions, and the items permitted for your ticket type. Knowing this in advance is really helpful in avoiding ticket issues or misunderstandings at the airport.

What To Do If Individuals with Intellectual Disability Have to Travel On Avianca With A Service or Emotional Support Dog:

If you want to travel with your service dog, just select the “Flying with a service dog” option when booking your flight or access it via the Manage Your Booking tool.

In case you are traveling with an emotional support dog, you need to make sure that the Contact Center has this information at least 48 hours before your flight. Be sure that all the paperwork for the pet’s transportation is prepared.

Things to Make Note At Your Departure Airport

Going to the airport can be a stressful experience most of the time, because of the large number of people, the loud announcements, and the several security checkpoints. Some easier and comfortable steps with the help of Avianca to get through the complex airport process for disabled passengers with intellectual disabilities are:

Avail of Web Check-In

Before you get to the airport, do your web check-in so that you can save time at the airport. If you need help, go to the Avianca counters through the ‘Special Assistance’ line. The staff will check your documents and give you all the details of your flight. If you do not know where the counter is, there are information desks at the airport that can help you find it.

Make Sure You Understand the Procedures 

You should understand the basic travel information, such as documentation checks, baggage regulations, and security procedures, that will allow you to travel on your own without assistance in the future. If you have any hassle with the same then it is advisable you travel with an escort. 

To-do For Those with Invisible Disabilities

Inform the staff if your disability is not visible so that they can give you the appropriate care. Avianca is a strong advocate for the use of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard, which, in a non-intrusive way, indicates that you might require additional assistance.

Choose the Pre-Boarding Option

At the boarding gate, you can request pre-boarding. This gives you extra time to settle in, arrange your carry-on luggage, and adjust to the cabin environment without feeling rushed.

Try to Arrive Early 

To avoid last-minute panic, you should absolutely be at the boarding gate 30 minutes before the time your boarding pass shows.

Things to Note About Avianca Airlines’ Special Assistance Services Onboard For Those with Intellectual Disabilities 

Once you are onboard, Avianca’s crew is trained to provide appropriate support while ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey:

• Noise Awareness: If you sit next to the wings or the bathrooms, it is a good idea to know that the sound from the turbines might be higher in these locations. Consider using headphones or other calming aids if needed.
• Seating Restrictions: Passengers with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to sit in the emergency exit row for their safety.
• Personalized Safety Briefings: Before takeoff, the crew members perform the safety instructions in a way that everyone can understand, for example, through speakers or even via a video. 
• Need for a Companion: If you need help with basic personal care activities such as eating or using the restroom, then a travel companion will be invaluable, as staff members are not allowed to do these tasks for you.
• In-Flight Entertainment: On A32O (single-aisle aircraft) with the available wi-fi you may access entertainment with the help of your personal device. On B787 (twin-aisle aircraft) you may be entertained with your favorite shows on the screen which is located to the seat right in front of you. 
• Onboard Sales Menu: If you are travelling in a specific route and cabin class, Avianca offers an onboard sales menu, which can be a printed or a digital one, in which you can purchase snacks, meals, or duty-free items.

Also Read: Avianca’s Special Assistance Services for Those with Hearing Disability

At Your Arrival or Connecting Airport

Avianca doesn’t abandon you after you land; instead, they make sure that your trip ends smoothly:

• Disembarkation: At some airports, disembarkation could be via stairs or a bus. Passengers with special needs will be the last to leave the aircraft for security reasons. This ensures a calmer, safer process without large crowds.
• Ground Assistance: If you need guidance, Avianca’s staff can:
  • Escort you to baggage claim.
  • Assist you in navigating to your connecting gate.
  • Help you exit the airport safely.

Conclusion

Avianca’s Special Assistance program for individuals with intellectual disabilities is the mainstay of a safe and comfortable journey at all stages. The customer-oriented services provided by the airline include on-demand assistance requests, help at the airport, pre-boarding, and post-flight care. These services are delivered in a way that takes into consideration the specific needs of the individuals. Through the implementation of precise measures, qualified staff, and a firm commitment to the principle of passenger dignity, Avianca is achieving a high level of easy and inclusive air transportation.

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