If you need to book wheelchair assistance for your upcoming Volotea flight, don’t worry, it’s an easy and traveler-friendly process. Volotea wheelchair assistance team is dedicated to making sure everyone, even those with limited mobility, can travel by air in comfort and ease. We will walk you through the easy process of requesting help in this article, including how to let the airline know ahead of time and what to expect at the airport. The various support services that are offered, such as assistance with boarding, and navigating the terminal, will also be covered. Volotea’s considerate, individualized support can help you have a seamless and secure journey with a few preparations and the correct information.
Volotea’s Wheelchair Assistance Services
If you need Volotea’s wheelchair assistance service, you need to simply head to the check-in desk on your travel day and let the staff know. The best part? It’s completely free. You can also bring along up to two mobility aids, like a wheelchair, walker, or similar equipment, without paying extra. This makes your journey smoother and more comfortable from the start.
If you are wondering about specific rules or restrictions, it’s a good idea to check Volotea’s Conditions of Carriage before your trip. Moreover, you can talk to a real person, and call their dedicated helpline at (+34) 93 12 25 224 (for calls outside Spain, France, and Italy) to get clear answers and personalized guidance.
Various Options for Volotea’s Wheelchair Assistance
When asking for wheelchair assistance, be clear about the exact help you need. Volotea makes it easier by offering three main types of support, so you can choose the one that best fits your mobility needs.
- WCHR (Ramp Assistance):
This service is perfect for travelers who can handle stairs and get to their seat on their own but find long walks through the airport tricky. With WCHR, you will have a wheelchair to get you from check-in to the aircraft without the exhausting trek.
- WCHS (Steps Assistance):
WCHS is designed for passengers who aren’t able to climb stairs or walk long distances but are still able to move to their seat once onboard. It includes help from check-in to the aircraft door, plus assistance getting up ramps or using lifts when boarding.
- WCHC (Cabin Seat Assistance):
WCHC offers complete, hands-on support for passengers who cannot walk at all. From the check-in counter right to your aircraft seat, staff will ensure you’re comfortably and safely assisted every step of the way, using aisle wheelchairs when needed for easy movement inside the cabin.
Things to Keep In Mind When Traveling On Volotea With Your Own Wheelchair
If you wish to get your wheelchair, in such cases, it is required to inform Volotea’s customer service a minimum of 48 hours before your flight. You need to provide the specifications of your wheelchair in detail which include information about the battery type. You also need to know the maximum weight and dimensions of the wheelchair, permissible on Volotea flights.
For wheelchair or mobility aids with lithium batteries, it is to be noted that the batteries should be attached to the device securely. The battery terminals have to be enclosed inside the battery container. This way, you can protect battery terminals against short circuits.
What are the Requirements for a Travel Companion On Volotea Flights?
Some travelers with functional diversity may be required to travel with a companion. This applies if the passenger:
- Cannot unbuckle their seatbelt, reach the emergency exit, or put on safety equipment unaided.
- Has severe hearing and visual impairments that prevent communication with crew members in emergencies.
- Has an intellectual disability that hinders understanding of safety instructions.
Furthermore, to ensure the passenger’s safety and compliance to airline safety regulations during the trip, a companion must be at least 16 years old, able to understand all safety instructions, and physically able to assist during an emergency evacuation.
Explaining Security Limitations On Volotea Flights
- Maximum PRM seats: Depending on the aircraft, between 12 to 18 seats are available for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Only two PRMs may travel unaccompanied per flight.
- Operational limitations, for example, a closed cabin door, may reduce capacity by 50%.
- PRM seats are generally by the window and cannot be in emergency exit rows to avoid blocking evacuation routes or emergency equipment.
Equipment Size and Weight Restrictions On Volotea Flights:
Mobility aids must fit within these cargo hold dimensions:
Aircraft Model | Height | Width | Length | Weight Limit |
Boeing 717 | 75 cm | 1.3 m | 2.83 m | 150 kg |
Airbus 319 | 1.42 m | 1.817 m | 2 m | 150 kg |
Airbus 320 | 1.43 m | 1.82 m | 2 m | 150 kg |
Therefore, if your device exceeds these limits, you must bring an alternative mobility aid that fits within the above specifications.
Volotea Special Assistance Guide
Volotea is dedicated to making sure that travelers with special needs have a relaxing and secure trip. For travelers who need mobility assistance or who have intellectual, hearing, or vision impairments, the airline provides special services. Below is a detailed overview of the assistance options and policies.
Volotea’s Special Assistance for Passengers with Visual Impairments:
Travelers with visual impairments can receive special assistance from Volotea for free. You can request this service, which includes being escorted through the airport, during the booking process or by getting in touch with customer support. You must ask for this help at least 48 hours prior to the departure of your flight in order to guarantee a seamless experience and reduce wait times. This enables Volotea to work with airport officials to provide you the help you need.
Special Assistance for Passengers with Guide Dog:
If traveling with a guide dog, the following rules apply:
- The dog must have an official document which verifies that it is trained as a guide dog.
- The dog should have its jacket on and standard identification harness, throughout. Moreover, the harness must also remain attached to the seat belt of the owner during crucial times like take-off, landing, and also at times of turbulence when the sign to fasten the seatbelt is on.
- Passengers having guide or assistance dogs must check-in close to two hours before their flight’s departure to ensure a seamless travel.
- The passenger must have full control over the dog throughout the flight, and take all responsibility for the dog.
- When traveling with a service dog it is essential to inform Volotea a minimum of 48 hours prior to your flight’s departure.
- They must remain at the cabin floor near the trainer’s foot.
- Volotea isn’t responsible for assistance dogs that travel sans proper documentation. They are also not liable for any damage, illness, loss, or even death of the canine. The airlines will also not be obliged to pay for any expense that may have arisen because of entry to a certain country or due to denial of entry into a particular country.
Passengers with Hearing Impairments Can Receive Assistance
To guarantee a secure and comfortable trip, Volotea provides special attention for passengers who have hearing problems. Inform the cabin crew of your needs so they can modify their communication style, give clear safety instructions, and provide in-flight assistance if needed. In this manner, you can travel with assurance and calmness.
Assistance for Passengers with Intellectual Impairments
For travelers with intellectual impairments, Volotea encourages advance notice so they can prepare the right assistance. Assistance with boarding, finding your seat, and in-flight procedures are all included in this. From beginning to end, their staff works to make your trip easy, relaxed, and well-supported so you feel at ease and taken care of.
Passengers Requiring a Stretcher
Volotea offers stretcher services, but only on territorial continuity schemes (Rome Fiumicino to Olbia). The service is for passengers who aren’t able to sit upright throughout the flight and require a stretcher. If passengers are using stretchers for travel they will be carried up to the aircraft in an ambulance. For stretcher travel requesting seven days in advance is required. The fit-to-fly medical authorisation should be presented to the MEDA.
The passenger has to bear the cost for ground transportation and medical assistance needed in the course of the stretcher service.
Oxygen Concentrators and Oxygen Transport
Here is what you must know about oxygen concentrators, and transport.
Oxygen Concentrators (POC):
- Allowed on board if battery- or electrically-powered.
- Must not contain oxygen or involve chemical reactions.
- On board, only battery power is permitted.
Transporting Medical Oxygen:
- Only gaseous oxygen cylinders up to 5 kg are allowed.
- Liquid oxygen is prohibited.
- Requires Volotea’s approval at least 72 hours before departure.
- A medical certificate confirming fitness to fly is required.
- You cannot use oxygen on board, you can only transport the same. However, you can only use oxygen concentrators if it has its battery.
- Passengers must sign a disclaimer at the airport.
- For transporting oxygen concentrators, and CPAP machines, you must ensure that your device complies with all the safety requirements. You must get in touch with Volotea’s customer service 48 hours prior to your flight’s departure so that you may provide the device’s technical specifications like dimensions, weight, battery type, and so on.
When to Book Volotea’s Special Assistance?
To make sure everything goes smoothly, it’s best to book your special assistance at least 48 hours before your flight.
You can easily request it through the “Special Assistance” option or by calling (+34) 93 12 25 224, calls are free if you’re in Spain, Italy, or France.
On the day of travel, remember to arrive at the airport and check in at least two hours before departure, as most special services need a little extra time to get everything set up.
Boarding Assistance:
Volotea’s fleet supports various boarding methods, including remote stand, walkway, lift, or ambulift, depending on airport facilities.
In-Flight Assistance:
Passengers with reduced mobility may need a companion if they require help with:
- Eating or taking medication.
- Moving between seat and toilet.
- Reaching emergency exits or handling safety equipment.
Cabin crew can assist with:
- Finding and settling into your seat.
- Storing and retrieving hand luggage.
- Moving between seat and toilet.
- Opening and identifying food containers.
Post-Flight Assistance:
At your destination, an assistant will:
- Meet you at the aircraft.
- Help you transfer to a wheelchair if needed.
- Escort you through the arrivals terminal to your next mode of transport.
To ensure smooth assistance, passengers with reduced mobility are usually among the last to disembark.
- When Volotea May Refuse Boarding?
- Volotea may deny boarding if prohibited by mandatory safety rules set by international, community, or national aviation authorities and laws.
- Carriage may be denied if a passenger’s actions or condition present a significant and immediate danger to fellow travelers’ safety.
- If an aircraft’s structural limits or narrow doors prevent safe boarding, passengers may be refused for operational and safety reasons.
Also Read: Asiana Airlines Special Assistance
Final Tips for Passengers Requiring Special Assistance:
Here are some things to keep in mind for passengers requiring special assistance on Volotea flights.
- Communicate your needs in advance
This is the most critical step. When you book your flight, be sure to notify the airline of your specific needs.
- Confirm your requests
Reconfirm your special assistance requests with the airline at least 48 hours before your flight. This allows them to make the necessary arrangements and ensures that all parties involved are aware of your needs.
- Gather essential documents
Carry a letter from your doctor detailing your medical condition, allergies, and medications. This is especially important for international travel. Keep all prescriptions in their original, labeled containers.
- Research your destination
Look into the accessibility of your destination, including hotels, public transportation, and attractions. Websites and communities dedicated to accessible travel can be excellent resources.
- Arrive early
Arriving at the airport with plenty of time is always a good idea. For travelers with special assistance needs, it’s even more important. This allows time for check-in, security screening, and for the airport staff to provide the requested assistance.
- Protect your equipment
If you are checking your wheelchair at the gate, consider attaching a form with instructions on how to properly handle it. Remove any loose or fragile parts, such as seat cushions or footrests, and carry them on with you. If your wheelchair is damaged or lost, report it immediately to the airline’s Assistive Device Desk.
Conclusion
For travelers who have limited mobility, Volotea’s wheelchair assistance service is intended to make air travel easy, and comfortable. The airline offers customized assistance options, WCHR, WCHS, and WCHC, from check-in to post-flight support, depending on the individual needs of each passenger. Additionally, passengers are allowed to bring up to two free mobility aids, with specific weight and size restrictions. Travelers may guarantee that everything is set up for a stress-free trip by making reservations at least 48 hours in advance. Volotea demonstrates its dedication to making air travel accessible, secure, and worry-free for all customers with its well-considered policy, dedicated crew, and complimentary special assistance services.
FAQs:
Yes. Volotea offers complimentary wheelchair assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring smooth travel from check-in to boarding. Trained staff assist throughout the journey, making air travel more accessible, safe, and comfortable at no additional charge.
You can easily request wheelchair assistance while booking your ticket, through the “Special Assistance” section on the airline’s website, or by calling (+34) 93 12 25 224 at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Yes. Airlines allow up to two mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or walkers, at no extra cost, provided they comply with the carrier’s specified size and weight restrictions for safe transport.
Volotea provides three types of mobility assistance tailored to passenger needs: WCHR for help moving through the terminal to the aircraft ramp, WCHS for support with boarding or disembarking via steps, and WCHC for full assistance to and from the cabin seat. These services ensure comfortable, safe, and accessible travel for passengers with varying mobility levels.
It depends. Some passengers must travel with a companion if they cannot manage safety procedures independently, such as unbuckling a seatbelt, using safety equipment, or reaching emergency exits.
Yes. Guide dogs are allowed free of charge with proper documentation, a jacket, and an identification harness.
An assistant will meet you at the aircraft, help you transfer to a wheelchair if needed, and escort you through the arrivals terminal to your next mode of transport.
Volotea officials will do their best to make sure that travelers with allergies feel at home. However, Volotea can’t vouch for an environment free of allergens onboard. It is recommended that you inform Volotea 48 hours in advance before your flight to enhance a hassle free travel.