How do I Request Air New Zealand Wheelchair Assistance?

A protocol is followed if you need wheelchair assistance. When booking the ticket, there is a ‘special requests’ option available. You may choose Air NZ wheelchair assistance from 'special requests'. Most probably, you will be able to book the assistance. If you were not able to make a choice at the time of booking, you may contact Air New Zealand wheelchair assistance phone number. Here are a few ways Air New Zealand will strive to offer the assistance you need.

Specify what level of assistance you need - 3 levels of assistance may be provided.
Travel with a companion or safety assistant - If you are not able to do essential tasks on your own, you can ask for a safety assistant.

If you have requested special assistance like a wheelchair, the e-ticket will have a code on it. WCHC, WCHS and WCHR are the codes used on Air New Zealand e-tickets. In this Air1Network blog, we will leave nothing to your imagination if you need special assistance.

What Special Assistance can I Get from Air New Zealand?

Air New Zealand has utmost respect for the passenger’s rights. You will not be deprived of the opportunity to travel comfortably even if you are severely handicapped. If you choose WCHC at the time of booking, the highest level of Air New Zealand special assistance will be provided. This entails assisting you in occupying the seat. The airline has special equipment like a lifting device, slide boards and slide sheets to help you. Here are a few things you must keep in mind about special assistance.

Special assistance request may not show in your e-ticket - At present, the e-ticketing system doesn’t display the special services requested. No worries, the airline is still working on your request.
If you need to take your personal wheelchair to the passenger door, you may be assisted by an attendant - For this, you will have to specify this. You may get this assistance if the e-ticket has WCHS or WCHR.
If you need medical equipment like CPAP or POC - You may have to fill up a special assistance form.

A few airports have Eagle lifting device, a hydraulic system for assisting passengers with disabilities to board the aircraft. For details or assistance, you can visit or contact Air1Network.

Do I have to pay Charges for Special Assistance on Air New Zealand?

Charges don’t usually apply for all special assistance Air New Zealand. But the airline will not be able to assist you with the essential tasks like using the lavatory or eating. If you need assistance with these tasks, you will have to travel with a companion or safety assistant. Air New Zealand deserves kudos for having tied up with Medical Travel Companions. The company provides companions with charges. The airline will arrange a seat next to yours for the companion. Take a look at what else has been included in the special assistance.

Seat selection - A suitable seat will be offered to you without any charge.
Check the wheelchair - Personal wheelchairs may be checked in the hold without any charge. Even if the wheelchair has to be disassembled into parts, it will be considered a single baggage.
A few devices may be accommodated on board - If you need a device, you may be allowed to bring it on-board.

How do I contact Air New Zealand for Wheelchair Assistance?

The airline crew will be aware of the assistance you need if you have chosen it under ‘special requests’ at the time of booking. WCHC, WCHS and WCHR are the codes that help them understand about the assistance you need. Should your requirements change, you may give a call on Air New Zealand special assistance phone number. Here are a few things to remember about contacting the airline.

Call the airline up to 48 hours before departure - Calling the airline will confirm the assistance you want.
Ask ‘Oscar’, the live chat assistant to connect you to an airline agent. - Click on the chat bubble on airline’s website.

Not sure whether your special assistance is underway. The special assistance request will show in the Air New Zealand app under accessible travel. Feel free to visit or contact Air1Network for assistance or details.