Hong Kong Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

If you or your travel companion requires special assistance, such as wheelchair support, Hong Kong Airlines is committed to ensuring a smooth, safe, and enjoyable journey from start to finish. The airline offers comprehensive special assistance services, with a dedicated team available to provide wheelchair support throughout your travel experience. From check-in to boarding and upon arrival at your destination, staff members are trained to handle your needs with care and efficiency. To ensure Hong Kong Airlines’ wheelchair assistance service, passengers are encouraged to request assistance in advance during the booking process or by contacting the airline directly. 

With Hong Kong Airlines, travelers with mobility challenges can enjoy a worry-free flight experience, knowing their comfort, safety, and convenience are prioritized every step of the way.

What Mobility Assistance Services Does Hong Kong Airlines Provide?

Hong Kong Airlines provides wheelchair assistance at no additional cost, offering comprehensive mobility support. This includes:

• Wheelchair assistance within the airport:

Airport wheelchair services help passengers navigate from check-in counters through security, terminals, and boarding gates, ensuring a comfortable and accessible journey from arrival to aircraft boarding.

• In-flight aisle wheelchairs:

Specially designed in-flight aisle wheelchairs assist passengers with limited mobility in moving between their seats and aircraft lavatories or doors, offering greater comfort and independence during the flight.

• Transfer assistance:

If passengers are unable to transfer themselves from a wheelchair to a seat, trained cabin crew use onboard transfer equipment to safely assist, ensuring a friendly and supportive flying experience.

Additionally, passengers are advised to communicate their mobility needs when booking or during check-in for a smooth and safe travel experience. This helps the airline assess the level of assistance required. In certain cases, especially if you are unable to understand or respond to safety instructions or need help during an emergency evacuation, the airline may require you to travel with a safety assistant. This ensures your well-being throughout the journey and supports compliance with essential safety regulations and procedures.

Providing Advance Notice To Hong Kong Airlines for a Smooth Experience:

Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance team suggests getting in touch with their Customer Service Center at least 48 hours before departure if: 

• During the flight, you plan to use medical portable electronic equipment (such as a respirator, ventilator, CPAP machine, or POC).
• Are taking a group of ten or more people with disabilities on their journey.
• Plan to travel with a guide dog.

In addition to notifying the airline, passengers should arrive early to provide enough time for check-in, security, and any gate changes, and check the status of their flight before leaving for the airport. If boarding gates or flight schedules change and you require extra mobility help, make sure to let gate agents know.

Preparing Your Wheelchair and Other Assistive Devices for Travel With Hong Kong Airlines:

Hong Kong Airlines is dedicated to providing an effortless journey and accommodating travelers who use assistive devices. As long as they comply with safety and stowage guidelines, devices like crutches, canes, and foldable walking frames are allowed in the cabin. These things should be kept safely out of the way of emergency exits and passageways. 

Passengers are allowed to use walking frames that are not foldable until they embark. To guarantee their safe return upon arrival, these frames will be given priority treatment and stowage in the aircraft’s cargo hold after being checked in at the gate. The airline makes an effort to accommodate all accessibility requirements.

How to Request Wheelchair Assistance At Hong Kong Airlines?

As mentioned already, it is recommended that passengers who need wheelchair assistance get in touch with the Hong Kong Airlines Customer Service Center before their scheduled departure date. Giving the airline advance notice guarantees that the right plans may be made to meet specific needs. This proactive strategy reduces delays and discomfort while enabling a smooth and enjoyable boarding and airport experience. In order to provide an enjoyable trip for passengers requiring mobility assistance, prompt communication is essential.

Types of Wheelchair Assistance Offered At Hong Kong Airlines:

Hong Kong Airlines wheelchair assistance offers several types of in-flight assistance, including:

• Help with moving to and from seats
  
• Assistance with preparing meals
  
• Use of the onboard wheelchair to access the lavatories
  

The in-flight wheelchair service is only available on specific aircraft models: A32S, A32Y, A333, A33G, A32H, A321, A32U, A332, and A32T.

However, it’s important to note that the cabin crew cannot assist with personal care needs such as eating or drinking, administering medication, or helping with toilet use inside the lavatory. Passengers needing this level of care are advised to travel with a personal care attendant.

What are the Safety Requirements Regarding Hong Kong Airlines’ Wheelchair Assistance Service?

Hong Kong Airlines might require that passengers travel with a safety helper in some circumstances. This usually occurs when a passenger is incapable of understanding or adhering to safety guidelines or when they are unable to leave the airplane on their own in the event of an emergency. In the event of emergencies or unexpected events, the safety assistant helps to maintain a secure atmosphere for all passengers by ensuring their well-being and adherence to safety procedures.

There are some restrictions at Hulunbuir Hailar Airport:

For flights to or from Hulunbuir Hailar Airport, Hong Kong Airlines is unable to provide WCHS (wheelchair for stairs) or WCHC (wheelchair to cabin seat) assistance due to the lack of high-lift vehicles and jet bridge facilities at the airport’s International Terminal. Travelers who need these accessible services should be aware of this restriction and plan their trips accordingly. To guarantee a smooth trip, Hong Kong Airlines’ wheelchair assistance team advises making appropriate plans, particularly for passengers who require special help or have limited mobility.

Rights and Procedures For Travelers with Wheelchairs:

Passengers are welcome to bring their wheelchairs. For safety, all personal wheelchairs must be checked in before boarding:

• Manual wheelchairs: 

These can be checked in at the airline check-in counter or directly at the boarding gate, depending on the passenger’s preference and travel needs. Both options are available for convenience.

• Electronic-powered wheelchairs: 

These must be checked in exclusively at the airline check-in counter before the passenger proceeds through airport security. This ensures proper handling and safety protocols for the equipment.

Moreover, depending on airport facilities, passengers may be permitted to use their wheelchairs up to the boarding gate, after which ground staff will assist with transferring the passenger onto the aircraft.

Rules For Battery-Powered Wheelchairs:

Hong Kong Airlines wheelchair assistance accepts all types of battery-powered wheelchairs in the cargo hold, including:

• Dry cell batteries
  
• Wet cell batteries
  
• Gel cell batteries
  
• Non-spillable electric storage batteries
  

For lithium-ion battery-powered wheelchairs, the battery must meet the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, and when all of that is fine, you may take them as part of your checked baggage. Additional safety protocols must be observed to comply with international air transport regulations.

Get Personalized Assistance from Trained Staff At Hong Kong Airlines:

Hong Kong Airlines has implemented an extensive training program for both airport and in-flight staff to ensure each passenger receives warmth and respect. These training programs equip staff members with the knowledge and abilities needed to assist passengers who have sensory impairments, limited mobility, or other problems that call for extra attention. The staff is ready to help with professionalism and empathy, whether you need assistance on board or are navigating the airport.

It is advised that travelers let the airline know about any special requirements they may have in advance. Early communication guarantees that the required arrangements are made in advance and helps Hong Kong Airlines customize its services to your needs. Either the airline’s website or a local bookings office can be used for this.

Understanding Hong Kong Airlines’ In-flight Support and Its Limitations:

While Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance provides extensive support throughout the travel experience, there are limitations to in-flight assistance. Cabin crew are not permitted to assist with personal care tasks such as:

• Eating or drinking
  
• Administering medications
  
• Using the lavatory or related hygiene needs
  

Passengers requiring this level of care are advised to travel with a personal care attendant who can provide support throughout the flight.

Hong Kong Airlines Special Assistance for Pregnant Passengers:

To facilitate a smooth travel experience, the airline provides specific guidelines and assistance for pregnant passengers. Hong Kong Airlines emphasizes the importance of consulting with your gynecologist before planning any air travel. Medical advice will help ensure that both the mother and the baby are in suitable condition for the journey. 

Medical Clearance and Certificate Requirements:

Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance services have clear policies regarding pregnant travelers to ensure their health and safety during the flight. If a passenger is 28 weeks pregnant or more (i.e., after 27 weeks + 6 days), she must present a medical certificate of fitness to fly. This certificate should confirm the following:

• The pregnancy is progressing normally without complications.
  
• The passenger is fit for air travel.
  
• The number of weeks of pregnancy.
  
• The expected date of delivery.
  
• Whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy.
  

To be considered valid, this medical certificate must be issued within 7 days before the departure date and remain valid for 14 days from the date of issue. Passengers without a valid or complete certificate may be denied boarding in the interest of safety.

Pregnancy Stage Travel Limitations:

The airline accepts:

• Single pregnancies up to 36 weeks (35 weeks + 6 days).
  
• Multiple pregnancies up to 32 weeks (31 weeks + 6 days).
  

Passengers who are at or beyond the 36th week of a single pregnancy or the 32nd week of a multiple pregnancy are not permitted to fly. This policy minimizes health risks associated with air travel in late pregnancy and ensures onboard safety for all.

Post-Delivery Travel Guidelines:

Hong Kong Airlines also provides recommendations for passengers who have recently given birth:

• Mothers should not travel within the first 7 days after delivery.
  
• Newborns are not allowed to travel until they are at least 7 days old. If the baby was born prematurely, a health certificate is required to confirm the infant’s fitness to fly.

Hong Kong Airlines Special Assistance for Infants:

Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance services are designed to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience of both the infant and the accompanying adult.

Infant Eligibility and Ticketing:

To qualify for infant travel, the passenger must be at least 7 days old and under 2 years old for the entire duration of the journey. If an infant turns 2 years old after the outbound flight, a child ticket must be purchased for the return segment of the trip.

Infant fares are calculated as a discounted percentage of an accompanying adult’s ticket fare. However, if the selected adult fare does not offer an infant discount, the next higher fare class that does provide this discount will be used as the basis for calculation. Please note that the final pricing is subject to fare rules, ticketing conditions, and the legal regulations of the country where the ticket is issued.

To confirm the correct infant fare and secure your booking, it is highly recommended to contact Hong Kong Airlines’ Customer Services Centers directly.

Child Restraint Seat Policy:

For infants and small children aged 6 months to 3 years who have a dedicated seat purchased, Hong Kong Airlines welcomes the use of personal Child Restraint Seats (CRS) onboard. These seats must meet specific international safety standards, approved by one of the following authorities:

• EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency)
• FAA (Federal Aviation Administration
• European Safety Standards
  
• US FMVSS 213 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards)
  
• AS/NZS (Australia/New Zealand Standard)
  

The CRS must be forward-facing and have a maximum width of 17 inches to fit properly in the cabin seat. Additionally, the infant or child must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged 18 or above, seated next to them. CRS usage may vary depending on the aircraft and cabin class, so it is advisable to confirm eligibility by reaching out to the Customer Services Center in advance.

Baby Bassinet Requests:

For added comfort on longer flights, parents traveling with infants can request a baby bassinet. Bassinets are available by request and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, due to limited availability onboard.

To reserve a bassinet, passengers must submit a request at least 48 hours before departure. Below are the specifications for Hong Kong Airlines’ baby bassinets:

• Dimensions (L x W x H): 29.52 in x 13.38 in x 8.8 in (750mm x 340mm x 224mm)
  
• Maximum Weight Limit: 11 kg (24.2 lbs)
  

Because these bassinets are suitable only for infants under a certain weight and size, passengers should ensure their child meets the requirements before requesting the service.

Hong Kong Airlines’ Special Assistance for Unaccompanied Minor:

Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance offers an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) Service for children aged 6 to under 12 traveling without an adult. This service ensures the child’s safety and comfort throughout the journey. Parents or guardians must apply for the UM service at least 72 hours before the scheduled flight departure. 

Service charges vary by region: for Zone 1/2/3, the fee is HKD 500 / USD 65 / CAD 90 / AUD 110, while for travel to the Northern Mariana Islands, Southwest Pacific, and North America, the fee is HKD 1000 or USD 130 or CAD 180 or AUD 210. You may also contact customer service for details.

Hong Kong Airlines’ Special Assistance for Postural Support Devices:

Hong Kong Airlines allows the use of specific postural support devices for passengers with disabilities. These are permitted in Economy Class only due to safety and compatibility limitations. Passengers must bring their own devices, as none are provided onboard.

Approved Devices

Here is a list of approved devices: 

Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES Harness)-

• Suitable for children aged 2 to 4 years
  
• Weight: 10–20 kg (22–44 lbs)
  
• Height: 100 cm (40”) or less
  
• Must be able to sit upright unassisted

Crelling Harnesses (Model 27)-

• Type 27I: 2–5 years
  
• Type 27A: 5–8 years
  
• Type 27B: 9 years to adult
  

What are the requirements?

• You must notify Hong Kong Airlines Customer Service at least 72 hours before departure.
  
• Make sure the support device is used with the standard seat belt during all flight phases.
  
• Not permitted in Business Class.
• Passengers still have to use their seat belts on the aircraft throughout the flight
  

Hong Kong Airlines Special Assistance for Diabetic Passengers Carrying Needles and Syringes:

Passengers with diabetes who need to carry injectable medications and needles onboard must follow local and international security protocols. Security checks may vary by country, and passengers are encouraged to verify procedures at all transit and destination airports.

In-Flight Requirements:

• Syringes must be carried with the corresponding injectable medication (e.g., prefilled EpiPen).
  
• All items must be professionally labeled with the passenger’s name by a pharmacy or medical facility.
  
• If unlabeled, a medical certificate or doctor’s letter is required.
  
• Passengers must be prepared to present items for inspection during security screening.
  
• Used syringes should be disposed of in the onboard sharps box.

Portable Medical Electronic Devices (PMEDs):

Passengers who need devices such as Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs), CPAPs, or BiPAPs must inform the Customer Service Center at least 48 hours before departure.

Requirements for POCs:

Here is what you must keep in mind when carrying POCs: 

• Submit a physician’s statement dated within 7 days of departure.
  
• The statement must confirm that the passenger can operate the device and whether it’s required for all flight phases.
  

Battery Regulations:

Battery Size	In Equipment	Carry-on	Checked
≤ 100 Wh / ≤ 2g	Yes	Yes	Yes
> 100 Wh to ≤ 160 Wh	Yes	Yes	Yes
> 160 Wh / > 8g	Forbidden	No	No
> 2g to ≤ 8g (Lithium)	Yes	Yes	Yes

Passengers must ensure battery compliance and determine if devices can be carried onboard.

Special Care Arrangements:

Hong Kong Airlines special assistance offers additional services for passengers with medical conditions or needing extra support:

• Medical Clearance: This is required for passengers with specific health needs. They must travel with a companion aged 18+.
  
• On-site Review: Airport staff will verify all medical documents before allowing boarding.
  

Medical Travel Companion Service:

In partnership with Medical Travel Companions, Hong Kong Airlines offers premium assistance for:

• Elderly travelers
  
• Families and children
  
• Passengers with disabilities
  
• Post-surgery or injury recovery
  
• Those needing companionship during transit or flight
  

Additionally, services range from in-flight assistance to full concierge care, provided by qualified nurses, paramedics, or travel nannies. Booking is done via an external website. Hong Kong Airlines is not liable for services provided by Medical Travel Companions.

Hong Kong Airlines’ Special Assistance for Passengers with Visual Impairment:

Passengers with visual impairments are encouraged to notify the airline of their needs either at the time of booking or during check-in. Services available include:

• Meet and Assist: A dedicated escort to and from the aircraft.
  
• Individual Safety Briefings: Personalized safety instructions to ensure understanding.
  
• Inflight Mobility Assistance: Help in moving to and from the passenger’s seat during the flight.
  
• Priority Boarding: Early access to the aircraft for a more relaxed boarding process.
  

Furthermore, passengers may bring their accredited service dogs onboard, provided prior arrangements are made through the local reservations office. Canes and other assistive devices can be brought into the cabin, as long as they are stored safely under the seat or in the overhead bin. They shouldn’t block the emergency exits or protrude into the aisle. These items are carried free of charge.

Hong Kong Airlines’ Special Assistance for Passengers with Hearing Impairment:

If you are hearing-impaired and need assistance, you should inform Hong Kong Airlines in advance during booking or even while checking in. The assistance offered includes: 

• Meet and assist services to help you get into the aircraft and even deplane
• Individual assistance with safety briefings
• Provision of subtitles in the videos regarding flight safety
• Provisions of priority boarding

If you have service dogs, you must contact Hong Kong Airlines’ local reservation office. You can also carry special headsets, onboard hearing aids, or audio receivers without any prior notification. You can use them throughout the flight. However, if you wish to carry a transmitting device onboard, you have to inform Hong Kong Airlines atleast 48 hours in advance to save yourself from any hassles during travel. 

However, for safety reasons, passengers cannot plug their safety assistive devices into the power supply of the aircraft. They must arrange for power sources on their own. 

Also Read: Vietnam Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

Hong Kong Airlines’ Support for Passengers with Cognitive or Developmental Impairments:

For those with cognitive or developmental challenges, Hong Kong Airlines’ special assistance team recommends informing staff of any special requirements during booking or check-in. While crew members are trained to provide high levels of service, they cannot offer continuous or full-time care.

Passengers who cannot follow safety instructions must travel with a safety assistant, and those needing constant supervision or personal care must arrange for a personal care attendant.

Travelling with Guide or Assistance Dogs On Hong Kong Airlines 

Hong Kong Airlines complies with the Civil Aviation Department’s regulations regarding the transport of guide and assistance dogs. Only dogs accredited by organizations such as the International Guide Dog Federation, Assistance Dogs International, or Assistance Dogs Europe are accepted in the cabin on both inbound and outbound flights.

Passengers traveling with such animals must contact the Hong Kong airline’s Customer Service Center at least 48 hours before departure. Additionally, travelers should prepare all documentation required by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and any destination country authorities.

For those traveling with an emotional or psychiatric support dog, additional documentation is necessary, including:

• A letter from a licensed mental health professional dated within one year of travel.
  
• Confirmation that the passenger has a recognized mental or emotional disability.
  
• A statement that the support animal is needed for air travel or at the destination.
  
• Professional credentials of the mental health provider, including license type, issue date, and jurisdiction.

Conclusion

For passengers with mobility challenges, Hong Kong Airlines is dedicated to providing a comfortable and easily accessible travel experience. Hong Kong Airlines wheelchair assistance program empowers travelers from the moment they check in until they arrive, offering tailored care, expert assistance, and meticulous planning. By informing the airline beforehand and understanding the available services and any limitations, passengers can look forward to an easy and worry-free trip. Hong Kong Airlines champions inclusive travel, allowing every passenger to fly with assurance.

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