In order that airlines may make the necessary arrangements, a prior notification is deemed necessary. On Saudia you must notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure. The maximum cut-off time for notification is less at a few airports including Paris. If you need Saudia wheelchair assistance at these airports you must notify the airline at least 36 hours before departure. Saudia’s special assistance team is accessible by WhatsApp or phone. The request must be made after you have booked your flight. Here are a few situations which require you to inform the airline.
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When you are traveling with a battery-powered wheelchair - Electric wheelchairs need special handling.
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When your disability prevents you from reaching the seat - Saudia will need to make special arrangements to ensure you get seated.
Saudia allows passengers with medical conditions to travel with medical devices. Only those which have been authorized will be permitted. Air1Network may be reached on +1-844-414-9223 for details or assistance. In this blog we will cover every aspect traveling with a disability.
Are disabled provided Assistance during the entire Saudia Flight?
Disabled persons will get the necessary assistance throughout Saudia flight. In Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam, there are special counters for providing Saudia wheelchair assistance. Take a look at how the airlines offer you assistance.
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Check-in and boarding the flight - Assistance can be offered to visually impaired with checking in and boarding.
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During the flight - On-board wheelchairs are available for disabled. Usage of on-board wheelchair is facilitated by the flight attendants.
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Saudia disability assistance on arrival at destination - Passengers will get assistance in deplaning.
Personal wheelchairs may not be used at connecting airports. You will have to request Saudia wheelchair at connecting airports if the transit time is longer than 2 hours. For details or assistance you may contact Air1Network or Saudia on +1-844-414-9223 or +1-800-472-8342.
What sort of Mobility Assistance you may get on Saudia?
Up to 2 mobility devices for personal use may be checked by a disabled person. This may include your personal wheelchair and another mobility aid required by you. Both manual and battery-operated wheelchairs will be accepted in baggage hold. The dimensions of the folded wheelchair must not exceed 13in x 36inx 42in. Here are a few things you must keep in mind about Saudia mobility assistance.
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Request the right type of wheelchair assistance - Disabled passengers may choose among WCHC, WCHR and WCHS.
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Inform the airline about battery-operated wheelchair - The airline will require the details of the installed batteries.
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On arrival the wheelchair will be delivered at aircraft doors or in baggage claim area. - If necessary the service staff of Saudia will help assemble the wheelchair.
How will I Qualify for Special Assistance on Saudia?
Passengers will need to get a travel clearance if they want medical equipment during flight. To get travel clearance, the MEDIF form you submit must be filled and signed by your doctor. The medical equipment will be approved by the airline. Only those which get authorized will be permitted. Here are a few things you must remember to qualify for Saudia special assistance.
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Stretcher service must be requested prior to departure - This service will require arrangements from airline’s side.
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Disability where you can’t use your limbs - Mobile cranes may be arranged only if you have requested it.
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Batteries of devices must be kept charged - If the flight is of 10hours, you must keep the battery charged for 15hours.
Why have I not Received Assistance on Saudia?
Even though the airline doesn’t charge you Saudia wheelchair assistance cost, the assistance is not guaranteed. The airline must be in a position to provide the special assistance sought by you. In spite of best efforts, the airline may not be able to provide assistance in situations listed below.
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Requests made within 36 hours departure or last-minute requests - Waiting time for a wheelchair may be prolonged.
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You are not departing from Riyadh, Jeddah & Dammam - Special assistance counters have been set up at these airports only.
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You don’t have an escort - Personal safety assistant and personal care attendant must be booked if you need assistance with basic tasks.
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Get an authorization for your medical device - Authorization is deemed mandatory for portable oxygen concentrators.
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Medical clearance for travel - Several medical conditions need you to have a medical clearance.
Seats may have to be assigned at the airport for passengers with Saudia handicap assistance. Disabled passengers may not be able to check-in online. For details or assistance you may contact Air1Network or Saudia on +1-844-414-9223 or +1-800-472-8342.