At present, most airlines will deem it necessary to inform prior to departure. Information up to 48 hours is required so that the ground team of Qantas prepares the resources: both at the arrival airport and at destination. You will encounter delays on arrival if you don’t follow the timelines advised by Qantas. Or, you may have to manage with the resources available at the moment. The options available to requesting Qantas Airways wheelchair assistance and any other assistance are listed below.
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Online service request forms may be filled if you need special assistance - The forms must be submitted if you need assistance with check-in and boarding at least 48 hours before departure. Hearing impaired and visually impaired may use this form.
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Submit a request for mobility aid - A separate form is available on Qantas if you just need wheelchair. You must submit it up to 48 hours before departure.
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Request your travel agent - If you booked a third-party ticket, you may call the travel agency for assistance.
A few medical conditions including fractures may require you to fill up and submit a medical clearance form. Relevant documents may have to be attached. You may call Air1Network on +1-844-414-9223 for details. Our blog will help you get more clarity on how to travel with a disability or medical condition.
Does Qantas Airways Accept Mobility aids on its Flights?
Yes, Qantas Airways may accept up to 2 mobility aids on its flights. Few aircraft types including B-787 and Airbus A-380 have space for foldable mobility aids. But only those which meet the size criteria of Qantas Airways will be accepted. They must measure within 33cm x 91cm x 106cm when folded. You will be provided a replacement if your mobility aid doesn’t get accepted in cabin. On any flight Qantas Airways handicap assistance will include the below.
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If you are required to surrender the personal wheelchair at check-in - A replacement wheelchair will be given along with an attendant.
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Checking in hold without Qantas Airways wheelchair assistance cost - At check-in or departure gate, your wheelchair will be prepared and checked for a safe flight.
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Use an aisle wheelchair - Qantas has aisle wheelchairs meant for disabled requiring it during the flight.
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Airport wheelchairs - You may use them at connection airports.
Mobility aids which require batteries of over 160Wh may not be accepted either in the baggage or cargo compartment. To transport them you will have to call a freighter. You may contact Qantas or Air1Network on +1-844-414-9223 or +1-800-227-4500 for assistance or details.
Can you travel on Qantas Airways if you need Special Assistance?
Qantas will assess each case individually and based on its assessment it may deny or accept a passenger with medical condition. You will have to submit Qantas Airways special assistance form for getting a clearance. The form along with the relevant documents must be submitted up to 5 days before departure. Once you get a clearance Qantas will facilitate your travel. You may travel with a medical equipment. Take a look at the situations where you will need a medical clearance.
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Traveling with a fracture - If your flight is within 7 days of getting a plaster or cast for a fracture.
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For Asthma patients - A medical clearance is needed if you had a recent episode or hospitalization.
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For patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea - If you’ll need CPAP during flight.
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For terminally ill passengers - You will need a medical clearance from Qantas.
What may reduce the chances of getting Assistance on Qantas Airways?
In a few scenarios, the chances of getting assistance may be slim. What can hinder your assistance will depend on the kind of assistance you need. It is advisable to know what is included and excluded in the Qantas Airways mobility assistance you ask. If you chose WCHC on the request form, you will find assistance till you get seated. Here are the other scenarios that may affect you.
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Non-submission of Qantas Airways wheelchair request up to 48hours before departure. - The airline will need prior information to prepare the resources you need.
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Non-submission of medical clearance form up to 5 days before departure - Qantas will take time to assess your requirements.
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Late arrival at airport - Make sure you arrive 2-3 hours before departure. Service staff will take time to prepare the wheelchair for safe checking.
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Lack of details about the personal wheelchair with you - You may have to give details of dimensions and type of batteries.
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Batteries considered unsafe for checking in hold - If your mobility aid has a Lithium-Ion battery with specifications of above 160Wh it will not be accepted.
A support person may have to be booked if you need Qantas Airways disability assistance beyond getting seated on the aircraft. This will include those requiring assistance with food or using lavatory. For details or assistance you may contact Air1Network or Qantas Airways on +1-844-414-9223 or +1-800-227-4500.