How to Book Free Wheelchair & Special Assistance at Airports 2026: SSR Codes & Medical Guidelines
1. Book at Least 48 Hours Before Flight: When booking your ticket or by contacting the airline call center, attach the appropriate Special Service Request (SSR Code). This service is provided 100% Free of Charge across all major scheduled airlines.
2. Dedicated Assistance Escort: A trained staff member escorts the passenger from airport check-in at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport through priority immigration, security, transit gates, and up to the baggage carousel at your final destination.
Navigating massive international airport terminals, ascending jet bridges, and walking long distances can be physically exhausting for elderly parents, pregnant women, mobility-impaired individuals, or post-surgery patients. Under International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) accessible aviation standards, all commercial airlines are legally obligated to provide free wheelchair and escort assistance. Knowing how to book this service correctly ensures VIP-grade comfort throughout your journey.
1. The Three International Wheelchair SSR Category Codes (WCHR, WCHS, WCHC)
Select the exact code that corresponds to the passenger's physical mobility:
| SSR Code | Mobility Level | Service Provided | Medical Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|
| WCHR (Ramp) | Can ascend stairs but cannot walk long terminal distances (Elderly) | Wheelchair from terminal entrance to aircraft door | Generally Not Required |
| WCHS (Steps) | Can walk short level distances but cannot climb stairs | Wheelchair + Ambulift or ramp stair assistance | Doctor prescription recommended |
| WCHC (Cabin) | Completely immobile (Paralyzed or severely incapacitated) | Special narrow aisle chair to transfer passenger into aircraft seat | MEDIF & Fit-to-Fly Mandatory |
2. When is a Fit-to-Fly Medical Certificate & MEDIF Form Required?
For recent surgeries, cardiac conditions, fractures, or late pregnancy, airlines require an official Medical Information Form (MEDIF) cleared by airline medical doctors prior to travel.
3. Dhaka Airport Special Assistance Helpdesk & Dedicated Escort
Upon reaching Dhaka Airport, proceed to the Special Assistance Helpdesk:
4. Ambulift Vehicles & Priority Aircraft Boarding
When aircraft are parked at remote tarmac bays without direct aerobridge boarding, hydraulic ambulift vehicles elevate passengers directly to the aircraft door safely:
5. Transit and Destination Airport Wheelchair Handover Protocols
During layovers in Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul, ground staff meet passengers directly at the aircraft door with name placards:
📋 The 5-Point Golden Special Assistance Checklist
- ✅ Wheelchair SSR code (WCHR/WCHS/WCHC) is confirmed on your PNR at least 48 hours before flight.
- ✅ For severe medical conditions, a valid Fit-to-Fly medical report issued within 72 hours is available.
- ✅ Essential prescribed medications and emergency medical equipment are in cabin hand baggage.
- ✅ Report to the Special Assistance desk immediately upon arrival at the airport.
- ✅ Remember wheelchair assistance is 100% free of charge under airline regulations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there any fee or charge for airline wheelchair assistance? ▼
No. Under international civil aviation regulations, wheelchair and mobility assistance is provided completely free of charge by all commercial airlines.
2. How do I add wheelchair assistance after purchasing an online ticket? ▼
Visit the airline's official website under 'Manage Booking' or call their customer care hotline with your 6-character PNR code to request wheelchair assistance.
3. Can a passenger bring their own personal foldable wheelchair? ▼
Yes. You can use your personal wheelchair up to the aircraft boarding gate, where staff will gate-check it into the cargo hold free of charge and return it upon arrival.
4. Do wheelchair passengers have to stand in general immigration lines? ▼
No. Airports provide dedicated priority fast-track immigration and security lines for wheelchair users and their accompanying travelers.
5. Are pregnant women eligible for wheelchair assistance? ▼
Yes. Expectant mothers over 28 weeks of pregnancy can book wheelchair support for airport comfort alongside their doctor's fit-to-fly certificate.
6. Are escort staff allowed to demand tips or money? ▼
No. Demanding tips is strictly illegal. Report any coercive demands immediately to the Airport Magistrate Court or senior airport authorities.
7. What should I do if a wheelchair is missing upon landing in transit? ▼
Inform the flight attendants at the aircraft door. They will contact airport ground handling dispatch to immediately send a standby wheelchair.
8. Can oxygen concentrators (POC) be carried on flights? ▼
FAA-approved Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) are permitted with prior airline medical clearance and sufficient battery charge for 150% of the flight duration.
9. Is special guidance available for visually or hearing-impaired travelers? ▼
Yes. Airlines provide dedicated Meet and Assist escorts to guide visually or hearing-impaired passengers safely through every stage of the journey.
10. Can I get a wheelchair without booking in advance? ▼
In emergencies, check-in staff can arrange an unbooked wheelchair based on availability, but advance booking at least 48 hours prior guarantees seamless service.