---
# System prepended metadata

title: How to Request Special Assistance on Virgin Atlantic?
tags: [Travel Support, Comfort Travel, Passenger Care, Flight Help, Accessible Travel, Disability Services, Special Assistance, Travel Help]

---

# How to Request Special Assistance on Virgin Atlantic?

Travel comfortably and confidently by contacting Virgin Atlantic for special assistance at +1-866-323-7710. Get personalized support for mobility, medical needs, or airport navigation throughout your journey.

Traveling can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with challenges, especially for passengers who require additional support. Virgin Atlantic recognizes that every traveler has unique needs and provides a variety of special assistance services to ensure a smooth journey from check-in to arrival. Whether you have mobility issues, a medical condition, visual or hearing impairment, or are traveling with young children, requesting special assistance ensures that your travel experience is comfortable, safe, and stress-free.

Understanding how to request special assistance on Virgin Atlantic and what to expect is crucial for a seamless journey. This comprehensive guide covers the process step by step, explains the services available, and offers tips to make the most of your travel experience.

### Understanding Special Assistance

Virgin Atlantic offers a range of services designed to help passengers who require extra support. These services are not limited to wheelchair assistance or mobility support. They can include help with boarding, seating arrangements, transportation to the gate, communication support, and special meal requests for medical conditions.

Special assistance is designed to ensure that passengers can navigate the airport and aircraft comfortably and safely. By arranging assistance in advance, you allow the airline to make appropriate preparations and coordinate with airport staff, cabin crew, and ground services.

### Types of Special Assistance Available

Virgin Atlantic provides a variety of services to meet different needs. Understanding which service applies to your situation will help you request assistance efficiently.

#### 1. Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance

Passengers who have difficulty walking or require a wheelchair can request assistance from check-in to boarding. This includes electric or manual wheelchairs, help with navigating long distances in the terminal, and transportation to and from the aircraft.

#### 2. Assistance for Visually Impaired Travelers

Passengers with partial or complete vision loss can request support from check-in to the gate. Staff can guide you through security, help you locate your boarding gate, and assist with boarding. Crew members are trained to provide verbal instructions and ensure your comfort during the flight.

#### 3. Assistance for Hearing Impaired Travelers

For passengers with hearing difficulties, Virgin Atlantic provides special support, including communication with staff and alerts for boarding announcements. Passengers can request text or visual notifications and assistance with safety briefings.

#### 4. Medical and Health-Related Assistance

Travelers with medical conditions, limited stamina, or temporary injuries can request assistance tailored to their needs. This includes help with boarding, seating adjustments, and guidance during transit. Passengers who require supplemental oxygen or other medical equipment should inform the airline well in advance.

#### 5. Assistance for Unaccompanied Minors

Virgin Atlantic offers specialized support for children traveling alone. This includes supervision at the airport, guidance through security, and help boarding the plane. Children are accompanied by staff until they are safely handed over to their guardians at the destination.

#### 6. Assistance for Elderly Travelers

Older passengers who may require help navigating the airport or boarding can request special assistance. This ensures that seniors receive the support they need without rushing or stress.

#### 7. Assistance with Emotional or Mental Health Needs

Virgin Atlantic recognizes that travel can be stressful for passengers with emotional or mental health concerns. Special arrangements can be made to provide a calm and supportive environment, including quiet areas, staff guidance, and flexible boarding procedures.

### When to Request Special Assistance

It is recommended to request assistance as early as possible, ideally at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before your flight. This allows Virgin Atlantic sufficient time to prepare the necessary arrangements, assign staff, and coordinate services at both the departure and arrival airports.

Requesting assistance too late may limit the availability of certain services, especially for international flights or busy travel periods. Early notification ensures that your journey can be planned without unexpected delays or complications.

### How to Request Special Assistance

Virgin Atlantic provides multiple ways to request special assistance. The process is straightforward, but attention to detail is essential to ensure that your needs are met.

#### Step 1: Identify Your Needs

Before making a request, clearly identify the type of assistance you require. Consider whether you need mobility support, help boarding the aircraft, or specialized communication assistance. Note any medical equipment, medications, or dietary restrictions that may require attention during the flight.

#### Step 2: Contact Virgin Atlantic

There are several methods to request assistance:

* **During Booking:** When booking online or through a travel agent, select the relevant special assistance options provided in the booking form.
* **Online Form:** Virgin Atlantic provides an online special assistance request form that allows passengers to specify their requirements.
* **Phone Contact:** You can call Virgin Atlantic’s dedicated customer service line for assistance requests. Representatives can guide you through the process and answer questions regarding your specific needs.

Provide your booking reference, flight details, and personal information to ensure that the airline can link the request to your reservation.

#### Step 3: Provide Detailed Information

When making your request, give as much detail as possible. For mobility assistance, specify whether you use a manual or electric wheelchair and whether you can walk short distances. For medical assistance, mention any conditions, equipment, or medications.

If you have visual or hearing impairments, indicate the type of support you require. For unaccompanied minors, provide age, contact details of guardians, and any special needs. Detailed information ensures that Virgin Atlantic can prepare the correct level of support for your journey.

#### Step 4: Confirm Arrangements

After submitting your request, you should receive confirmation from Virgin Atlantic. Confirm the details of your assistance, including arrival times at the airport, assigned staff, and equipment needed. Keep a copy of this confirmation for reference at check-in.

### What to Expect at the Airport

Once your special assistance request has been confirmed, you can expect several supportive measures at the airport.

#### Check-In

At check-in, staff will assist with luggage, provide boarding passes, and coordinate any additional services such as wheelchair transport or medical equipment handling.

#### Security Screening

Virgin Atlantic staff are trained to accompany passengers through security screening efficiently while ensuring privacy and safety. Assistance may include guiding passengers, handling security trays, and explaining procedures clearly.

#### Boarding

When boarding, staff will help passengers reach the aircraft safely. Wheelchair users may be assisted with boarding lifts or other equipment. Crew members ensure that passengers are comfortably seated and that any medical or mobility equipment is properly stowed.

#### In-Flight Assistance

Once on board, cabin crew are available to provide assistance throughout the flight. This includes helping with seating adjustments, retrieving items from overhead bins, assisting with meal service, and providing support during turbulence or other flight conditions.

#### Arrival Assistance

Upon landing, special assistance continues to the baggage claim area, customs, and onward transport. Wheelchair users, passengers with mobility issues, or those with unaccompanied minors are guided through the airport to ensure a smooth transfer.

### Tips for a Smooth Special Assistance Experience

To make the most of Virgin Atlantic’s special assistance services, consider these practical tips:

1. **Book Early:** The sooner you request assistance, the more options and support will be available.
2. **Carry Documentation:** Bring any medical certificates, prescriptions, or equipment instructions.
3. **Arrive Early:** Allow extra time at the airport to accommodate any additional procedures or assistance.
4. **Communicate Clearly:** Inform the staff of any changes in your condition, equipment, or travel plans.
5. **Label Equipment:** Clearly label wheelchairs, mobility aids, or medical devices for easy identification.
6. **Prepare Medications:** Keep necessary medications in carry-on luggage and inform staff of special requirements.
7. **Check Airport Facilities:** Some airports have specialized services or lounges for passengers needing assistance.

### Special Considerations for International Travel

International flights often require additional planning. If you are traveling to or from another country, consider the following:

* Confirm that the requested assistance is available at all connecting airports.
* Check visa requirements, medical clearance, or other documentation needed for passengers requiring medical equipment.
* Understand local airport procedures, as they may differ from your departure country.

Virgin Atlantic can coordinate with partner airlines or ground services to ensure assistance is provided throughout the journey.

### Traveling with Medical Equipment

Passengers who require oxygen, CPAP machines, or other medical equipment should notify Virgin Atlantic well in advance. The airline will provide guidance on what is permitted on board, whether additional documentation is required, and how to ensure the equipment is properly stowed and used during the flight.

For battery-operated devices or portable oxygen, staff may provide assistance during boarding and deplaning. Always follow airline instructions to comply with safety regulations.

### Assistance for Families and Children

Families traveling with young children, strollers, or car seats may request additional support to make travel easier. Virgin Atlantic can provide help with boarding, handling baggage, and navigating the airport. Unaccompanied minors receive special supervision throughout the journey, including handovers to designated guardians at the destination.

### Communication Support

Passengers with hearing or visual impairments can request communication support, including:

* Sign language interpreters at the airport.
* Visual or text alerts for announcements.
* Cabin crew instructions adapted for visual or hearing needs.

Communicating your specific requirements in advance allows Virgin Atlantic to prepare staff and tools for a comfortable journey.

### Emergency and Contingency Planning

Travelers requiring special assistance should always plan for unexpected events. This includes flight delays, gate changes, or missed connections. Virgin Atlantic staff are trained to support passengers in these situations, providing guidance, alternative transportation, and continuity of assistance where possible.

### Conclusion

Requesting special assistance on Virgin Atlantic ensures that all passengers can enjoy a safe and comfortable travel experience, regardless of mobility, health, or other personal needs. By planning ahead, providing detailed information, and confirming arrangements, passengers can reduce stress and focus on the excitement of their journey.

Virgin Atlantic’s dedicated staff, training, and airport coordination make it possible to navigate the airport and aircraft with confidence. From check-in to boarding, in-flight support, and arrival assistance, every step is designed to accommodate passengers’ individual needs.

Call +1-866-323-7710 — Assistance available 24/7, anytime you need it!