Most airlines put accessibility as a high priority. So, wheelchair assistance is not charged. While Etihad doesn’t charge you for a wheelchair it wants you to follow the required protocol for availing the assistance. The key things about Etihad wheelchair assistance protocol are listed here.
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Request wheelchair assistance up to 48 hours before departure.
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Mention the level of assistance you’ll need because Etihad will need it to prepare resources accordingly.
If you’ve a personal wheelchair, you will have to be sure of the specifications like the type of battery installed and height of the wheelchair. Our HolidayGlobes blog will give you details on how Etihad can assist you if you need a wheelchair.
How to Get Etihad Wheelchair Assistance?
Anybody needing wheelchair assistance in Etihad Airways must request it on ‘Manage My Trip’ section of Etihad. You can do this up to 48 hours before departure. You will need the details of your booking viz. trip reference and last name. If you’ve a special need, you may specify. Here are the types of assistance you will find on Etihad.
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If you are unable to walk for a long distance - A ramp wheelchair will be arranged for you.
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If you are unable to walk long distance and manage stairs - Etihad Airways will arrange a step wheelchair for you.
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For a completely immobile person - A cabin wheelchair can be arranged.
You may have to get a medical clearance if you’re suffering from a medical condition. For details or assistance, you may visit or contact HolidayGlobes.
What will be Included in Etihad Wheelchair Assistance?
You may get assistance with reaching the boarding gate in an airport wheelchair. Or, you may use your personal wheelchair to reach the boarding gate. The check-in agent may help you with checking the personal wheelchair and provide you an airport wheelchair. In the cabin, you may find a cabin wheelchair. Here is what else may be included in Etihad wheelchair assistance.
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Your wheelchair may be considered for stowage in cabin on a first-come first-served basis - Only manual or foldable wheelchairs will be allowed.
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No charges will apply for carry-on - If you are required to carry some parts of the wheelchair with you, Etihad will not charge you.
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No baggage charges on a wheelchair - A wheelchair is not counted in the checked baggage limit.
Why am I not Considered fit to Fly on Etihad?
You may not be handicapped requiring wheelchair assistance in Etihad Airways. But still you may be considered unfit. IATA guidelines restrict the travel of people suffering from a few diseases or medical conditions. These include people suffering from Asthma or Tuberculosis. If you had a recent surgery, you may not be allowed to use a flight. You may be allowed to use a flight when you have requested Etihad Airways special assistance like CPAP or POC. But you will need to submit a medical information form certifying your fitness. This is considered a medical clearance because it will be signed by the physician treating you. Here are a few things you must know about this form.
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You'll have to submit the form up to 72 hours before departure.
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If you’ve to attach a medical report it should have been issued 10 days before departure.
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A medical certificate may be sufficient if you are pregnant. But in a complicated pregnancy you may have to get a medical clearance.
Etihad recommends that you travel with a safety assistant if you are handicapped. For passengers requiring assistance with essential tasks, the airline recommends a personal care assistant. You may visit or contact HolidayGlobes for assistance or details.