Air Caraibes Wheelchair Assistance

If you’re planning to fly with Air Caraïbes and require wheelchair assistance, this guide will help you arrange the right support for a smooth, comfortable journey. It highlights the critical steps to request Air Caraibes wheelchair assistance, ensuring the airline can handle your demands properly. For you to confidently navigate the airport and your flight, you will also learn what to anticipate on the day of travel, from check-in to boarding and arrival. The guide also emphasizes crucial factors, like when to make your request and whether to prepare any required paperwork. With the right information, you can look forward to a stress-free travel experience with Air Caraïbes.

Understanding Air Caraibes Wheelchair Assistance:

Air Caraïbes aims to give travelers with limited mobility a seamless and comfortable journey. The airline’s committed staff is prepared to help you at every turn, whether you need a wheelchair, a mobility aid, or specialized support. With Air Caraïbes’ wheelchair assistance services, you can rely on individualized assistance tailored to your specific requirements, guaranteeing a comfortable and secure journey.

Wheelchair Options Available At Air Caraibes

Air Caraibes wheelchair assistance offers you several options as mentioned below: 

WCHR or “Wheelchair Ramp”:

This is for passengers who can walk independently but require a wheelchair to move through the airport, from check-in to the boarding lounge. It ensures a smooth, comfortable airport experience for those with limited mobility on long walks.

WCHS or “Wheelchair Steps”:

Designed for passengers who can walk but face difficulty with stairs, this service provides wheelchair assistance from check-in to the aircraft door. It ensures safe and convenient navigation through terminals and avoids stair-related challenges during boarding and disembarkation.

WCHC or “Wheelchair Cabin Seat”:

For passengers unable to move independently, this service offers full wheelchair support from check-in to their aircraft seat. Moreover, their staff assists throughout the journey, including boarding, seating, and disembarkation, ensuring maximum comfort and safety for travelers with significant mobility needs.

Air Caraibes Rules for Transporting Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids with Batteries:

Air Caraïbes wheelchair assistance accommodates a variety of mobility devices, including those powered by:

Non-spillable liquid electrolyte batteries:

These batteries contain a sealed liquid electrolyte, preventing spills and leaks, and making them safe for air transport and mobility devices.

Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries:

NiMH batteries store energy efficiently, offering rechargeable power for various devices, and are environmentally friendlier compared to older battery technologies.

Dry cell batteries:

Dry cell batteries use a paste electrolyte, providing portable, reliable power for everyday devices without leakage or the need for maintenance.

Mobility aids with reversible liquid electrolyte batteries or NiMH batteries must comply with specific safety standards:

• Devices should be properly packed or switched off to avoid unintended operation during transit, which helps ensure the safety of the aircraft and prevents potential hazards.
  
• Only batteries with fully absorbed electrolytes or dry cells are allowed. This minimizes the risk of leaks, which can cause chemical burns, fires, or damage to other baggage.
  
• Terminals should be insulated with tape or placed in individual packaging to prevent contact with metal objects, reducing the risk of short circuits, sparks, or fires during transport.
  
• Ensure all electronic components are firmly enclosed and cushioned, safeguarding against mechanical shock or crushing by other items during handling, storage, or loading onto the aircraft.

Initiatives Taken By Air Caraibes to Ensure Passenger Safety 

To guarantee passenger safety and avoid potential damage during takeoff, flight, and landing, the airline takes great care to securely fasten all mobility devices, including wheelchairs and scooters, inside the aircraft.

The airline carefully checks the kind of battery used in mobility devices before shipping. They guarantee that every battery is packaged securely in accordance with international and airline safety standards for air travel.

A maximum of two spare NiMH or dry cell batteries or one spare non-spillable battery may be brought by each traveler. This limit contributes to the safe handling and onboard storage of batteries.

All spare or removed batteries must be safely packaged in strong, protected containers and carried in the cargo hold of the aircraft to reduce the possibility of damage or fire dangers.

Furthermore, it is highly recommended that passengers inform Air Caraïbes in advance about their mobility assistance needs, especially when traveling with battery-powered equipment.

Air Cariabes’ Rules for Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids with Portable Batteries:

According to Air Caraibes’ wheelchair assistance, if specific safety requirements are fulfilled, wheelchairs and mobility aids with non-spillable batteries can be transported. To prevent damage to all batteries, circuits, and controls, the operator must secure the aid firmly using any restraining device, like ties or straps. They must be protected from damage brought about by moving luggage. 

To prevent short circuits, you must protect your battery connections. You must even use spill-proof vent plugs when the need arises. Batteries must be taken out and placed in rigid, waterproof containers with absorbent materials if the device is unable to stay upright. 

These containers should be appropriately labeled “BATTERY, WET, WITH WHEELCHAIR” or “BATTERY, WET, WITH MOBILITY AID,” and they should also have labels that read “Corrosive” and “Direction of Loading.” Battery locations must be communicated to the skipper. It is advised to make reservations with the airline in advance. Although not permitted in the cabin, these aids may be transported in the luggage hold.

Air Cariabes’ Rules for Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids with Lithium Batteries:

For passengers who have limited movement because of a disability, illness, age, or temporary accident, wheelchairs and mobility aids powered by lithium-ion batteries are allowed. The batteries must pass the testing requirements outlined in UN Manual sub-section 38.3. 

In order to prevent damage to batteries, circuits, and controls, operators must fasten powered mobility aids with straps or other fasteners. Covering the battery terminals is necessary to avoid short circuits. Batteries (up to 300 Wh each) must be removed or kept firmly affixed and segregated. 

One or two spare batteries (≤160 Wh each) may be carried in the cabin by passengers. All battery locations must be communicated to the captain by operators. It is advised to make prior arrangements with the airline.

Key Guidelines for Passengers Availing Air Caraibes Wheelchair Assistance Services 

Air Caraïbes wheelchair assistance is committed to providing a comfortable and dignified travel experience for passengers with reduced mobility. To ensure everything runs smoothly, it’s important to coordinate with the airline in advance. 

Certain mobility aids and equipment require prior approval, while some items can be transported in the baggage hold, they may not be permitted in the cabin without authorization. By arranging the necessary assistance ahead of time, you can look forward to a smooth, hassle-free journey with dedicated support from check-in to arrival. Moreover, always confirm travel requirements with Air Caraïbes before your flight for the best experience.

Air Caraïbes Special Assistance Services: Guidelines for Minors Traveling:

Air Caraïbes special assistance program is committed to ensuring that minors travel safely and comfortably. The airline offers detailed special assistance services, particularly for children flying alone or with a third party. Here’s everything you need to know:

Accompanied Minors:

Children under 12 (or 14 depending on destination) must be accompanied by an adult aged at least 18 (except for parents or legal guardians). For flights to/from French overseas departments (DOM), children can travel alone from 12 years old; for international flights, the required age for solo travel is 14. For younger children, 4 to 11 on DOM routes and 4 to 13 on international flights, the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory. Both the child and the accompanying adult must travel in the same cabin.

Unaccompanied Minors Booking:

Parents can book UM tickets for the Soleil (economy) class directly on www.aircaraibes.com by selecting “Children (2 to 11 years)” and completing the UM section. UM bookings are only valid on direct flights. Required government authorization forms must be completed prior to travel:

Non-compliance results in travel denial, and Air Caraïbes accepts no liability.

Minors Traveling with Parents:

Minors accompanied by parents or legal guardians must carry:

• Valid ID or passport (depending on destination)
  
• Family record book
  

Minors Traveling Alone or with a Third Party:

As per Air Caraibes special assistance program, minors under 18 flying alone or with a third party (or a parent with a different surname) must present:

• The child’s valid passport and visa (if required)
  
• Parent/guardian passport copy
  
• Signed authorization to leave the country
  

Please remember that French West Indies routes are exempt from this rule. Moreover, reservations for UM are made online as above. Proper documentation and authorizations are mandatory; otherwise, travel will not be permitted.

Minor’s Age and Applicable Conditions:

Here are some points to consider regarding the minor’s age.

Traveling with a Baby (Up to 2 Years Old):

A baby is considered an infant if they are under 2 years of age at the start of the journey. If your child remains under 2 years old for both outbound and return flights, the infant fare applies to both. However, if your child turns two during the trip, the infant fare applies only to the outbound journey; the child fare (ages 2–12) applies to the return.

Only one infant per adult (18+) is permitted, with exceptions for parents/guardians of twins. Infants must have a ticket but will not have an assigned seat. For safety, children cannot use sleep devices like inflatable mattresses for cots in the cabin. Accompanying adults must have pre-assigned wall-mounted seats and cannot sit in emergency exit rows. A valid ID for the infant is required.

Babies or children (between 2 and under 4 years of age):

A parent (father, mother, or legal guardian) or an approved accompanying adult must be present with children ages two to under four. The parent must nominate an accompanying individual who is at least eighteen years old. Parents need to relieve the airline of obligation if the accompanying adult is not the legal guardian, and the accompanying individual must sign a responsibility statement.

The child must have a valid ticket and identity in order to go. Car seats and strollers must be checked in and wrapped in plastic bags for protection. Be aware that children may be subject to additional baggage fees. Make sure all the procedures are followed to ensure your child has a safe and easy trip.

Unaccompanied minors aged 4 to 11 inclusive:

Air Caraïbes special assistance welcomes unaccompanied minors aged 4 to 11 years traveling alone, under specific conditions to ensure their safety and comfort.

Departure: An Air Caraïbes agent will escort the child from check-in to the aircraft door, where a flight attendant takes over. Onboard, special attention is provided.

Arrival: Upon landing, the cabin crew hands the child to a ground agent, who then escorts them to the arrival hall and safely releases them to the designated recipient.

Requirements:

• The child must hold a valid ticket, booked in Soleil class (subject to availability and quotas).
  
• Baggage: one checked bag (max. 23 kg); cabin bag must be manageable by the child or will be checked in.
  
• The accompanying adult must remain at the airport until takeoff; identification is required at both departure and arrival. Contact details must be recorded in the booking.
  

Restrictions:

• UMs are not accepted on flights to/from Port-au-Prince or San Salvador.
  
• They may not travel with pets or on TGV Air services.
  
• Service is limited to direct flights, with exceptions for certain regional routes.
  
• Proper, secure footwear is mandatory; flip-flops and similar shoes are discouraged.

UMZZ 

Air Caraïbes’ special assistance program offers UMZZ service for travelers aged 12-14, traveling by themselves. An airline agent will escort the UMZZ from check-in to the aircraft and, upon arrival, to the designated adult. 

Special attention is provided on board. UMZZ tickets are subject to specific pricing and quotas and must be booked in the Soleil class only. Checked baggage allowance varies as per the fare you have selected.  

UMZZs cannot travel with animals, use TGV Air, or fly on routes to/from Port-au-Prince or San Salvador. Bookings are accepted only for direct Air Caraïbes flights, excluding French bee code-shares and connections. 

For safety, UMZZs should wear appropriate shoes, flip-flops and clogs are discouraged. A valid ticket is required for travel.

• Formalities for foreign minors (under 18) in France:

Foreign minors (under 18) residing in France, including those with dual nationality, must comply strictly with French law regarding travel formalities. It is required that a juvenile have a valid passport or National Identity Card (CNI) while they are traveling with some other person. The same identity documents are needed if the kid is traveling with a parent who has a different last name. 

In order for authorities to confirm the legal relationship and obtain permission for the child’s travel, parents or legal guardians must always present formal documentation proving their parentage.

Air Caraibes Special Assistance Rules for Passengers with Special Requests:

Airlines aim to provide a safe, comfortable journey for all travelers, including those with special conditions requiring personalized attention. Passengers with reduced mobility or specific needs are entitled to adapted services. A person with reduced mobility is defined as someone whose physical, mental, or sensory abilities, or factors such as age, illness, or pregnancy, necessitate additional care.

Who Qualifies for Special Assistance?

Five main categories qualify for Air Caraibes’ special assistance. 

• Motor disabilities
  
• Respiratory disabilities (requiring oxygen)
  
• Mental disorders (requiring treatment delays over 8 days)
  
• Visual and hearing impairments
  
• Special cases (pregnant women, medical repatriates, heavily-built passengers)
  

Check-in Guidelines for Special Request Passengers:

Here are the check-in guidelines for passengers with special requests. 

• Transatlantic flights:

Arrive at least 2 hours early to allow for check-in, security, and boarding.

• Short-haul regional flights:

Arrive 1 hour before departure to complete check-in and security screening, and reach the gate.

• Medium-haul regional flights:

Plan to arrive 2 hours in advance to manage check-in, security checks, and boarding procedures.

Air Caraibes Special Assistance Services for Pregnant Women:

If you are expecting and have booked an Air Caraïbes flight, here is what you must note: 

Up to 6 months (28 weeks): 

Pregnant travelers for up to 28 weeks can fly without any medical clearance, enjoying a hassle-free journey with no special documentation needed for air travel.

6–8 months (28–36 weeks): 

For pregnancies between 28 and 36 weeks, it is advisable to carry a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly, ensuring a smoother check-in and travel experience.

After 8 months (36 weeks): 

Once pregnancy exceeds 36 weeks, air travel is not permitted due to increased health risks, prioritizing the safety of both mother and unborn baby.

Travel Tips for Expectant Mothers:

Here is what you should consider: 

• Wear loose, breathable clothing and supportive compression tights to improve circulation and overall comfort onboard.
  
• Move regularly during the flight and select an aisle seat for easier access and mobility.
  
• Drink plenty of water, skip carbonated beverages and heavy meals to prevent bloating and discomfort.
  
• Secure your seat belt below your abdomen to ensure both your comfort and safety while seated.

Air Caraibes Special Assistance for Heavily-Built Passengers:

Seat widths:

• Economy (Soleil): 42 cm
  
• Premium Economy (Caraïbes): 45 cm
  
• Business (Madras): 48 cm
  

If waist circumference exceeds half the seat width, reserving a second seat is advised. Without it, boarding may be denied on full flights for safety reasons.

INCAD – Medical Clearance: What Rules Does Air Caraibes Have?

The IATA’s INCAD form ensures safe travel for disabled passengers:

• INCAD 1: completed by sales agent and passenger
  
• INCAD 2: completed by the passenger’s physician and reviewed by the airline’s medical team
  

Mandatory Notification:

Passengers must inform the airline if they:

• Have a contagious disease
  
• Exhibit conditions causing unusual behavior
  
• May disrupt the comfort of others
  
• Pose potential flight safety risks
  
• Need medical supervision or equipment during the flight
  

For wheelchair requests (WCHC), or other assistance, contact the airline’s reservation center at least 48 hours in advance.

Air Caraibes Rules Regarding Companions and Personal Care Attendants For Those With Special Needs 

Passengers with special needs may travel with a companion, such as a doctor, nurse, or designated travel companion. For passengers who are blind, deaf, or have mobility impairments, a travel companion may also include an assistance dog. Please note that the airline reserves the right to refuse Emotional Support Animals (ESAN).

In certain cases, the presence of a personal care assistant or safety assistant is mandatory to assist passengers during emergencies, especially under the following circumstances: 

• Passengers with intellectual disabilities unable to understand safety instructions
  
• Blind and deaf passengers
  
• Passengers with physical disabilities who cannot self-evacuate (e.g., quadriplegics)
  

Paraplegic passengers, those with paralysis, and individuals without arms may travel independently without an assistant.

If a passenger is traveling with an assistant, that person must sit directly adjacent to or in front of the passenger. The assistant must be at least 18 years old.

When no personal care assistant is required, cabin crew can assist with seat belt fastening and oxygen mask adjustment if needed. However, they cannot provide help with eating, medication, toileting, or other personal care.

Read Also: KLM Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

Medical Repatriates:

Medical repatriates traveling for health-related reasons must present a valid certificate of fitness to fly, issued by the airline’s medical team. This guarantees that the passenger’s health is stable enough for flight. A certified medical attendant must travel with the passenger the entire time if in-flight medical treatment is required. To guarantee a safe and well-organized travel experience, the airline’s company doctor must give prior consent for the attendant’s presence and the necessary arrangements.

Conclusion:

For travelers with limited mobility, Air Caraïbes wheelchair assistance and special assistance services guarantee a comfortable flight. The airline provides individualized support and customized wheelchair assistance based on each passenger’s needs. 

Air Caraïbes is dedicated to providing accommodations for passengers with a range of mobility obstacles, such as age-related conditions, physical disabilities, and temporary mobility issues, as stated on their official website and on other airline review sites. They also provide considerate support to passengers with infants and pregnant women. In order to enable their skilled staff to provide the required care and assistance throughout the travel experience, the airline invites passengers who require special services to notify them in advance.

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