WestJet Wheelchair Assistance

WestJet prioritizes accessible travel, offering comprehensive wheelchair and special assistance. Their trained team is dedicated to ensuring a safe and smooth journey for all passengers requiring additional support. This includes clear guidelines for mobility assistance, accommodating medical equipment, and addressing other special needs. 

WestJet’s wheelchair assistance service aims to support travelers by outlining procedures and available resources. Moreover, effective communication of services and requirements allows you to fully prepare, resulting in an enjoyable one for your next WestJet flight. Their goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where every traveler feels supported and secure throughout their journey with them. 

Prior Notice and Appointment Scheduling of Wheelchair Assistance At WestJet:

WestJet recommends communicating your mobility requirements to them well in advance of the flight date, preferably at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure, to guarantee your needs are properly satisfied. Early notice allows the WestJet wheelchair assistance team to confirm that any mobility assistance will be accommodated and to set up the proper level of service.

If you’re flying with a personal wheelchair, scooter, or other device, you should:

• Confirm that your mobility aid, especially if it’s heavy or battery-powered, can be safely transported.
  
• Check the airline’s guidelines regarding battery types and prepare for disconnection or special packaging if necessary.
  
• Review and bring your device’s owner’s manual and any necessary tools to assist airport staff in preparing your equipment for transport.

How to Request WestJet Wheelchair Assistance?

You can request WestJet wheelchair assistance when:

• Booking a flight on WestJet.com:
  

When booking a flight directly on WestJet.com, simply navigate to the “Guest Details” page and select the appropriate support option listed under the “Accessibility Request” section to ensure assistance is arranged.

• Managing an existing reservation:
  

To update accessibility needs for a current booking, visit the “Manage Trips” section on WestJet.com, choose your flight, click on “Guest Info,” and modify your accessibility preferences accordingly to reflect required support services.

• Booking through WestJet’s call center or a travel agent:

If booking via WestJet’s call center or through a travel agent, they can conveniently add or update wheelchair and mobility assistance services on both new reservations and existing travel plans upon request.

Types of Wheelchair Assistance Available At WestJet:

WestJet provides three levels of support, so you can choose the option that best matches your mobility needs:

• In-airport wheelchair for distances only:

Ideal for guests who can walk unassisted but need a wheelchair for longer distances. You must be able to:

• Walk up/down steps
  
• Walk from the aircraft door to your seat
  
• Walk to and from the lavatory
  
• Gate-to-gate support without stair access:

Best for travelers who cannot walk up or down steps but can manage inside the aircraft. Assistance includes:

• Transport to/from the gate
  
• Help with bypassing stairs when needed
• Assistance in going to the restroom from your seat
  
• Full transfer assistance:

Designed for guests who require complete mobility support. This includes:

• A wheelchair from check-in to the aircraft
  
• Help with going up and down the stairs
  
• Full assistance transferring into and out of your seat and to/from the lavatory
  

WestJet Wheelchair Assistance To and From the Aircraft:

WestJet wheelchair assistance offers personalized assistance to help passengers with reduced mobility board and disembark with ease. 

• Team WestJet escorts you to and from the aircraft door.
  
• They will transfer you safely between your wheelchair and the aircraft seat using trained personnel or a mechanical lift, where available.
  
• WestJet provides wheelchair assistance to the entrance of the airport washroom.
  
• Their staff permits the use of your personal mobility aid until it must be stored, and returns it promptly after landing.
  
• You will be escorted to a designated waiting area near the gate, and check in periodically.
  
• WestJet offers pre-boarding to help you locate your seat and store your carry-on items. In some cases, boarding may occur after general boarding begins.

Transfer Assistance:

If you require help getting in and out of your seat, be sure to select the option “Help to the aircraft and I need to be transferred to/from my seat” when booking. Depending on airport capabilities:

• A mechanical lift will be used where available—use is mandatory when offered.
  
• Manual transfers are provided when lifts are not available.
  
• All transfer services are limited to a combined guest and equipment weight of 200 kg (440 lbs) for safety.

Assistance for Dismantling and Reassembling Your Mobility Aid:

WestJet wheelchair assistance staff can assist with disassembling, packaging, and reassembling your mobility device. To ensure smooth handling:

• Check in at least 30 minutes earlier than the recommended time.
  
• Bring your device’s owner’s manual or written instructions.
  
• Provide any tools required for disassembly.
  
• Carry removable components such as cushions or joysticks in your cabin bag.
  
• Keep the key with you if your device requires one to operate (unless removing it disables the device).

If you aren’t able to provide the owner’s manual, and if WestJet cannot disconnect or deactivate your battery for safety purposes, then your mobility aid won’t be allowed on board for transportation, keeping in mind the flight’s safety. 

Explain On-Board Wheelchair Services:

Every WestJet aircraft carries an onboard wheelchair, allowing passengers with mobility needs to access the lavatory during the flight with assistance from trained cabin crew.

• Seat-to-Washroom Transfers:

Cabin crew members are available to help transfer you safely between your seat and the aircraft washroom, using the onboard wheelchair, ensuring your comfort and dignity.

• Washroom Entry Assistance:

Crew can offer physical support or stability while you enter or exit the lavatory, minimizing the risk of slips or imbalance in the limited space of the aircraft cabin.

• Need for Personal Attendant:

Guests needing extra support, especially in emergencies or for personal care tasks like help with meals, taking medicines, accessing washrooms, etc, are encouraged to travel with a personal attendant, as crew members cannot provide constant or specialized care.

Wheelchair Allowance and Storage:

Team WestJet wheelchair assistance permits each passenger to bring one medically necessary wheelchair or scooter at no extra cost, over and above the standard baggage allowance. However, any additional mobility devices may incur regular checked baggage fees. 

• Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft have space to stow up to two folding wheelchairs in the cabin (first-come, first-served basis).
  
• All other aircraft store wheelchairs and scooters in the cargo hold.

Verify Your Mobility Aid’s Compatibility Before Departure On a WestJet Flight:

WestJet highly advises checking if your mobility aid may be accommodated before making reservations for your trip. Even if you have previously flown with the same equipment, this step is essential because aircraft types and setups can vary significantly. Although they will try every effort to accommodate your device or set up alternate choices at no additional cost if necessary, WestJet keeps the right to change aircraft without advance notice.

Mobility Aid Size and Weight Limits by Aircraft Type:

Mobility aids must fit within strict weight and dimension limits based on the aircraft type:

Aircraft Type	Loading Method	Max Weight	Max Height	Max Width
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner	ULD Container Loaded	500 lbs	64 inches	61 inches
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner	Bulk Baggage Loaded	300 lbs	45 inches	40 inches
Boeing 737	Direct Cargo Loading	300 lbs	35 inches	48 inches
De Havilland Dash 8-400	Direct Cargo Loading	300 lbs	59 inches	51 inches

• Non-powered mobility aids may need to be turned on their side to fit into certain compartments. If the device exceeds size limits when upright and can’t be turned, it won’t be accepted for transport.

• Powered devices, however, must always remain upright, and dimensions are assessed accordingly. If batteries are removed for travel, the weight considered excludes the battery.

Rules for Codeshare and Partner Airlines:

The above-mentioned rules apply only to flights that are operated by WestJet. It is your responsibility to get in touch with each airline directly to find out their specific mobility assistance regulations if your plan includes flights with other carriers. Coordination is crucial because every airline has its own policies and specifications. Please be aware that throughout your trip, WestJet has no control over how mobility aids are handled or transferred between airlines.

What are the Battery Safety Guidelines of WestJet?

Batteries, which are categorized as dangerous commodities under flight safety standards, are necessary for powered mobility devices. Before you go, you must study WestJet’s prohibited products policies and verify the type of battery your device uses by consulting the manufacturer or your user manual.

Key considerations for battery-operated devices include:

• Limits on how many batteries you can bring.
• Whether batteries must be removed, deactivated, or carried in a travel-safe container.
• Storage requirements for removed batteries such as covering terminals to prevent short-circuiting.
• Placement of spare batteries (checked vs. carry-on luggage).

With the device’s instructions and required equipment, WestJet can help remove or deactivate the battery. Onboard power ports, however, cannot be used to charge batteries or mobility aids. Always include additional fully charged batteries, at least enough for 1.5 times the anticipated total journey time, including delays and layovers, to prevent inconvenience. 

Mobility Devices and Battery Safety: 

Due to the strict safety rules around batteries, traveling with powered mobility aids, such as electric wheelchairs or scooters, necessitates careful planning. Since batteries are regarded as hazardous materials, WestJet only takes those that are approved and ready for flight.

Important Consideration:

Here are some essential aspects to keep in mind: 

• Use the handbook for your mobility assistance or get in touch with the manufacturer to find out what kind of battery you need.

• To learn about the particular requirements for your battery type, such as disconnection or storage in authorized travel cases, visit WestJet’s prohibited items website.

• Certain battery types need to be taken out and kept as checked or carry-on luggage, and battery terminals have to be wrapped to avoid coming into contact with metal items.

The WestJet wheelchair assistance team can help deactivate or remove batteries, but you will need to supply the required tools and manufacturer instructions. It is crucial to remember that charging mobility or medical equipment in airplanes is not allowed. 

Manual Mobility Aids and Other Devices:

Braces, walkers, or canes that are medically necessary are accepted free of charge in addition to the standard luggage allowance. If they fit the carry-on size criteria, these can be brought into the cabin; if not, they are shipped as checked baggage. These things do not require prior notice.

WestJet’s Rules for Orthotic Positioning Devices (OPDs) and Restraints:

Orthotic Positioning Devices are accepted on board but must meet specific conditions:

• Be required medically
  
• Accommodate within the seat of the aircraft without impeding seat recline or seatbelt use.
  
• Not require cabin crew assistance for use.
  

Additionally, WestJet’s wheelchair assistance team accepts FAA-certified restraint systems like the AmSafe CARES and Special CARES for children and adults who require postural support. If you plan to use another restraint system, prior notification is required for evaluation and approval.

Large Mobility Equipment and Space Availability:

Larger items such as personal lifts are only accepted on a space-available basis and must meet aviation packaging standards. If they are not properly packed or advance notice is not given, they may be refused. Due to liability limits, you may wish to consider renting such items at your destination or purchasing travel insurance.

WestJet’s Handling of Damaged or Delayed Mobility Aids:

If your wheelchair or mobility device is damaged, delayed, or lost, the WestJet wheelchair assistance team will assist you with the best possible solution.

• Their team will reunite you with the device as soon as possible.
  
• Provide a temporary replacement.
  
• Offer reimbursement for any expenses incurred due to the delay or damage.
  
• Replace the device if it’s lost or cannot be repaired.
  

WestJet investigates every case thoroughly and strives to prevent future occurrences. Sports wheelchairs are subject to standard liability limits, so insurance is recommended for high-value equipment.

For U.S. and Canada Flights:

If your mobility device is affected while flying between Canada and the U.S., file a claim by:

• Speaking with a WestJet agent,
  
• Use WestJet wheelchair assistance complaint number 1-866-666-6224, or
  
• Submitting a baggage report online.
  

A Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO) is also available to support you during the process. Call 1-877-495-2276 for assistance.

An Explanation of WestJet’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program:

Team WestJet is dedicated to ensuring that everyone, including people with invisible disabilities, can travel in an accessible, friendly, and convenient manner. Their involvement in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative allows visitors to discreetly indicate that they might need more time, patience, or support when traveling. 

Their experienced WestJetters can quickly identify passengers who are wearing Sunflower lanyards and are prepared to offer the proper support and comfort needed in this regard. Everyone benefits from a more relaxed and respectful experience due to this initiative. Moreover, you can ask a member of the staff at any WestJet check-in counter in Canada for a free Sunflower lanyard.

Advantages of WestJet Special Assistance Services:

WestJet offers a range of assistance services to ensure a comfortable travel experience for guests requiring additional support. 

• At check-in, staff can assist you at the counter and move you to the front of the line if you’re unable to use a self-service kiosk. 
• If you’re not independently mobile, a nearby waiting area will be arranged, with staff checking in regularly. 
• A gate pass may be provided for a family member to escort you to your gate. Staff will also help you through security and to the boarding area. 
• Pre-boarding is offered if you need help locating your seat, transferring from a mobility aid, storing baggage, or need a description of the aircraft layout. 
• Individual safety briefings, help with food packaging, and assistance with in-flight entertainment are available. 
• After landing, assistance is provided through customs, to baggage claim, and either the public area or a connecting flight location. Make sure you are present for the pre-boarding call to use early boarding.

WestJet Special Assistance for Blind or Partially Sighted:

WestJet’s special assistance team is committed to providing accessible services and considerate accommodations to passengers who are blind or partially sighted. 

Through screen reader-compatible services, you can manage reservations online, including checking in, modifying flights, and seeing schedules and statuses. Requests for seats must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure; if not, the system will assign a suitable seat at no additional cost. 

Depending on the kind of aircraft, different seating arrangements are advised for accessibility; generally, these include rows in the middle of the cabin. For easy navigation, several aircraft include elevated characters or Braille tactile row markers.

Early boarding is available at the airport to provide time for carry-on luggage storage and seat alignment. Crew members will help in opening the beverage or food packages, and may even assist in describing the contents of the packages alongside their locations. They will also vh give Braille or large-print safety briefings and explain the aircraft layout while on board. 

There is no assistance with personal hygiene, so a personal attendant may be needed. Upon request, accessible content can also be obtained in Braille, big print, audio CDs, and digital files that are compatible with screen readers.

Special Assistance for Cognitive, Behavioral, Developmental, or Psychiatric Conditions:

Particularly for people with mental or cognitive impairments, travel can be uncomfortable. Anxiety can be reduced by planning, but not all difficulties will be removed. 

As part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, WestJet special assistance helps passengers with invisible disabilities in simply expressing their need for additional compassion and assistance. In Canada, WestJet check-in counters are giving away free sunflower lanyards.

Before you travel, discuss your health and prescription requirements with your doctor. Make sure that the medications are legal in the places where you are traveling and stopping over, and always carry them in their original, labeled containers. 

Bring noise-cancelling headphones, soothing music, and snacks (subject to security rules) to ease in-flight discomfort particularly if you have anxiety issues, but note that headphones are not allowed on tarmacs.

To prevent tension at the last minute, arrive early, at least two hours before domestic flights. To familiarize yourself with the layout, think about going to the airport before your trip. Go through security together if you are traveling with someone, and wait if you are separated. Maintain a health emergency plan and travel insurance at all times, which will come to aid in situations where you have boarded the flight but won’t be able to continue your journey since you aren’t feeling well. 

WestJet Special Assistance for Deaf and Partial Hearing:

WestJet special assistance offers top-notch services for passengers who are Deaf or have partial hearing for a comfortable and accessible flight. Consistent communication support is guaranteed by their round-the-clock TTY phone service. 

To speak with a WestJet agent, just dial 711, wait for the operator, and then type 1-888-937-8538 and “GA” on a teletypewriter. During the call, the operator will act as a translator. You can contact them via their Contact Us form or by calling their toll-free number at 1-866-693-7853 if you are having trouble using WestJet.com.

You can talk to an agent about scheduling seats or let them know at least 48 hours before departure. Their system will automatically assign a suitable seat at no additional cost if no seat is specified. Personalized safety briefings will be given by their cabin crew while on board, along with all relevant information, such as flight updates and services. They also help you find entertainment opportunities when traveling.

WestJet Special Assistance for Allergies:

WestJet prioritizes the safety of all guests, including those with severe allergies. Although public access to the aircraft makes it impossible to guarantee an allergen-free environment, WestJet takes a number of precautions to reduce exposure. 

These include pre-boarding access for travelers with allergies, HEPA air filtration systems that collect 99.99% of airborne particles, and careful cleaning following every flight. Nearby passengers may be advised not to use or consume things that contain allergens without disclosing the identity of the allergic passenger. Except for service dogs, there is a cap on the number of pets allowed on each flight.

WestJet can set up a one-row buffer zone next to the passenger who has severe allergies. Buffer zones for individual seats are applicable in business class. A Medical Information Form must be turned in at least 48 hours before departure to request this.

In order to manage their allergies while traveling, guests are encouraged to bring safe food and cleaning materials, carry necessary medications, and adhere to medical advice. It is important to wash and sanitize your hands well before and after meals. If you have dietary restrictions, you can pre-order special meals. 

Minors aren’t allowed to travel unaccompanied in case they are severely allergic and require epinephrine to travel. 

WestJet’s Special Assistance for Infants:

Infants under two years old are allowed to travel on WestJet as lap-held passengers with a companion who is at least 16 years old. Only one infant per adult is allowed by Transport Canada regulations.

At check-in, a doctor’s letter of approval is needed for newborns younger than eight days. Infants under two years old may ride without a seat purchase, but once a child turns two, they must have a seat, even if their birthday falls in the middle of the journey.

When making your reservation, pick flights that match your child’s feeding and sleeping schedule. It may go more smoothly if you go on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m as these durations are considered non-peak timings. Do not forget to include necessities like a change of clothes, snacks, toys, and diapers. For your convenience, there is a changing table in one of the back aircraft restrooms.

All infants must have a ticket, although newborns in laps are exempt from base fares and taxes (except some U.S. costs). Infants with special needs might be eligible for extra care. A stroller, car seat, or playpen can be checked out for free. Your baby must have identification (photocopies are accepted). During takeoff and landing, provide food, pacifiers, or candy to relieve ear pressure. If your child has congestion, see a doctor.

WestJet’s Assistance for Service Dogs:

WestJet’s special assistance team welcomes service dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities. However, starting on August 5, 2021, emotional support animals are no longer allowed in any cabin. In addition to meeting import and documentation criteria particular to a given destination, service dogs must be trained to carry out responsibilities for a qualified individual. Before making a reservation, you are advised to go over every relevant detail.

Although it is not required, pre-registering your service dog makes future travel easier. Fill out the Service Dog Registration Form and send it by email with your training documentation. Except for trips to the United States, where two service dogs may be allowed, each passenger is only allowed one service dog.

If there are partner airlines on your route, inquire about their policies directly. Make sure your dog complies with all import laws in every nation you visit or travel through, or else you run the danger of being refused entry or transportation. Certain locations necessitate quarantine or preapproval.

Give WestJet at least 48 hours’ notice before your trip to give them time to organize your seat. Service dogs cannot sit in emergency exit rows or occupy seats; they must remain at your feet. Additional floor room can be provided upon request, and a kennel can be provided for free if the dog cannot be transported in the airplane hold.

• What if a Service Dog is in Training?

On flights operated by WestJet or WestJet Encore, each handler is able to bring one service dog in training for free. These canines are considered pets and are only allowed if there is room in the cabin because they are not helping someone with a disability. Unaccompanied minors cannot travel with service dogs in training. 

Reservations for dogs in training cannot be made online; instead, you must phone WestJet’s Special Care Desk. At least 48 hours before departure, make a spot request. Dogs must be well-behaved, not in distress, and at least eight weeks old. They are not allowed to sit in seats or be in the exit rows, and they must maintain order and wear the proper identity. For larger pets, more floor space might be desired.

Read Also: Hawaiian Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

WestJet Special Assistance for Medical equipment and medication:

Regarding medical equipment, and medication here are some points to consider:

• Medical Equipment:

If you or someone you care for requires medical equipment or medication when flying, please review WestJet’s guidelines in advance. Medical equipment fitting within carry-on dimensions should be brought onboard. 

Medication must be packed in your item and properly labeled. While WestJet doesn’t charge for medical devices, many contain batteries classified as dangerous goods and must meet airline and security agency approvals. 

Common portable devices like CPAPs, AEDs, and oxygen concentrators may be used in-flight but must be stowed during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Batteries must be carried in cabin baggage, properly packed, and enough should be brought to cover the entire journey, including delays. 

Use of aircraft power outlets for medical devices is not permitted. One medical bag may exceed standard weight limits but counts toward your carry-on allowance. Syringes are only accepted when accompanied by clearly labeled medication and stored with protective guards. For safety reasons, some seating areas may be restricted when using equipment in-flight.

The onus lies on you to ensure that the medical device is properly maintained and labelled as well. You must also stow your devices in the overhead bin or in the space in front. If the pilot feels that your electronic medical device interferes with the proper operation of the flight, they may request you to turn it off. You must adhere to their instructions. 

• Medication:

For your safety and ease, always carry medication in your item under the seat in front of you. WestJet employees are unable to retrieve or give medication, and checked luggage is not accessible during flights or delays.

Since there is no refrigeration on board, use a zipped bag with ice packs if necessary. To be sure your prescription is allowed in the countries where you are going, even during layovers, check the websites of the consulates. It is best to keep prescription medications in their original packaging. 

Observe general and medical equipment rules while using injectable medications. Keep inhalers and auto-injectors of epinephrine in your carry-on luggage. It is not allowed to place injectable equipment aboard airplanes. 

Only drinks provided by WestJet are allowed in the airport and on board; personal alcohol is not. You might not be allowed to board if you are intoxicated. There is no WestJet notification required while traveling with medical marijuana, but there may be fines from local authorities. Keep medications on hand, and give screening more time.

Conclusion:

Passengers in need of wheelchairs and mobility assistance will find WestJet Airlines to be a welcoming airline. With a proactive approach that emphasizes early coordination, detailed equipment guidelines, and a variety of service levels, WestJet ensures travelers with special needs feel valued, safe, and cared for throughout their journey. 

Their staff is dedicated to providing professional transfer services both on the ground and in the air, accommodating mobility devices, and treating battery-powered equipment with care. By giving flexible options and clearly defining procedures, WestJet special assistance delivers a smooth travel experience where accessibility is prioritized rather than being treated as an afterthought.

FAQs: