---
# System prepended metadata

title: How to Request Special Assistance on Air Canada?
tags: [Air Canada, Accessible Travel, Disability Services, Special Assistance]

---

# How to Request Special Assistance on Air Canada?

Learn how to request special assistance on Air Canada easily by calling +1-866-323-7710 for personalized support ensuring comfortable safe accessible travel for all passengers worldwide

Air travel should be comfortable and accessible for everyone. Air Canada understands that many passengers may require special assistance while traveling, whether due to a disability, medical condition, age related needs, or temporary mobility limitations. To ensure a smooth and stress free journey, Air Canada offers a wide range of special assistance services designed to support passengers from booking to arrival.

Requesting special assistance on Air Canada is a straightforward process, but it is important to understand how and when to make the request. Proper planning helps the airline prepare in advance and ensures that your needs are met throughout the journey. This guide explains everything you need to know about requesting special assistance on Air Canada, including available services, how to submit a request, and helpful tips for a comfortable travel experience.

### Understanding Special Assistance on Air Canada

Special assistance refers to services provided by the airline to help +1-866-323-7710 passengers who need additional support during their travel. These services are available to people with physical disabilities, visual or hearing impairments, medical conditions, cognitive challenges, elderly travelers, and passengers recovering from injury or surgery.

Air Canada aims to remove barriers to travel by offering assistance that promotes independence, dignity, and safety. Assistance can be provided at the airport, during boarding, throughout the flight, and upon arrival.

### Types of Special Assistance Offered by Air Canada

Air Canada provides a variety of assistance options to meet different passenger needs. Understanding these services will help you request the right type of support.

#### Mobility Assistance

Passengers with limited mobility can request help +1-866-323-7710 with walking long distances, using wheelchairs, or transferring between seats. Air Canada offers different levels of mobility support, depending on your ability to move independently.

Wheelchair assistance may include help from the check in counter to the gate, boarding the aircraft, moving through connections, and reaching baggage claim after arrival.

#### Assistance for Passengers Using Personal Mobility Devices

If you travel with your own wheelchair, walker, scooter, or other mobility aid, Air Canada allows these devices to be checked in free of charge. Battery powered mobility devices are also accepted, but advance notice is required so the airline can safely handle and store them.

#### Visual Impairment Assistance

Passengers who are blind or have low vision can request guidance through the airport, help locating seats, assistance with carry on items, and orientation to onboard facilities. Service animals are also permitted in the cabin under specific guidelines.

#### Hearing Impairment Assistance

Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can receive help with important announcements, boarding instructions, and communication during the flight. Cabin crew are trained to communicate clearly and offer assistance as needed.

#### Cognitive or Developmental Assistance

Passengers with cognitive disabilities or developmental conditions may request extra support throughout the journey. This can include help with navigation, boarding, and understanding travel procedures. A support person may also travel with the passenger if required.

#### Medical Assistance

Passengers with medical conditions may request accommodations such as oxygen support, seating arrangements, or permission to travel with medical equipment. Some medical conditions require clearance from Air Canada before travel.

#### Assistance for Elderly Passengers

Senior travelers who need help walking, boarding, or navigating the airport can request assistance even if they do not have a disability. This service ensures a relaxed and comfortable journey.

### When to Request Special Assistance

Timing is extremely important when requesting special assistance. Air Canada recommends submitting your request as early as possible, preferably at the time of booking. Early requests allow the airline to make proper arrangements and avoid last minute complications.

If you have already booked your flight, you can still add special assistance later through your booking or by contacting Air Canada customer support. Some services, such as medical clearance or battery powered wheelchair handling, may require advance notice of at least forty eight hours before departure.

### How to Request Special Assistance During Booking

The easiest way to request special assistance is during the flight booking process. When booking online, Air Canada provides an option to select special assistance needs before completing your reservation.

During booking, you may be asked questions about your mobility level or specific assistance requirements. Answering these accurately ensures the airline understands your needs clearly.

Once selected, the assistance request is added to your reservation and communicated to airport and cabin staff.

### How to Request Special Assistance After Booking

If your needs arise after booking or if you forgot to request assistance initially, you can still add it later.

You can request assistance by:
Logging into your Air Canada booking online
Accessing the manage booking section
Selecting special assistance or accessibility services
Saving your request

Alternatively, you can contact Air Canada customer service directly and speak with a representative who will add the assistance request to your booking.

### Requesting Wheelchair Assistance

Wheelchair assistance is one of the most commonly requested services. Air Canada categorizes wheelchair assistance based on your mobility level.

Some passengers can walk short distances but need help for long airport walks. Others may require a wheelchair for the entire journey, including boarding and deplaning.

When requesting wheelchair assistance, you should specify:
Whether you can walk short distances
Whether you can climb stairs
Whether you can transfer independently to an aircraft seat

Providing accurate information helps staff deliver the right level of support.

### Traveling With Your Own Wheelchair or Mobility Aid

If you travel with a personal mobility device, inform Air Canada in advance. This includes manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or crutches.

Battery powered devices require special handling. You may need to provide details about the battery type, size, and weight. This ensures compliance with safety regulations and avoids delays at the airport.

Your mobility device is carried free of charge and returned to you as quickly as possible upon arrival.

### Requesting Medical Clearance

Some medical conditions require approval before flying. This includes recent surgery, severe respiratory conditions, infectious illnesses, or the need for onboard oxygen.

If medical clearance is required, Air Canada may ask you to submit a medical form completed by your doctor. This form confirms that you are fit to travel and outlines any specific requirements during the flight.

It is important to submit medical documentation well in advance to allow time for review and approval.

### Seating Accommodations

Passengers requiring special assistance may be eligible for specific seating arrangements. This can include aisle seats for easier access, seats near the restroom, or seats with movable armrests.

Air Canada tries to accommodate seating requests based on availability. While preferred seating cannot always be guaranteed, early requests increase your chances.

### Assistance at the Airport

On the day of travel, arrive at the airport earlier than usual if you require special assistance. This gives staff enough time to provide support without rushing.

At check in, inform the agent that you have requested special assistance. Airport staff will coordinate services such as wheelchair support, security assistance, and priority boarding.

You may also receive assistance through security screening to ensure the process is respectful and comfortable.

### Boarding and In Flight Assistance

Passengers who request special assistance are usually offered priority boarding. This allows extra time to settle into your seat without pressure.

During the flight, cabin crew are available to help with:
Storing carry on items
Opening food packaging
Understanding safety instructions
Assisting with mobility within the cabin when possible

However, cabin crew cannot provide personal care such as feeding, toileting, or administering medication. If you require such assistance, traveling with a personal support person is recommended.

### Assistance During Connections

If your journey includes connecting flights, Air Canada can arrange assistance between gates. This is especially helpful in large airports where distances can be long.

Your assistance request follows you throughout your itinerary, ensuring continuity of support across connections.

### Arrival and Baggage Assistance

Upon arrival, assistance continues through deplaning, immigration if applicable, baggage claim, and exit from the airport.

If you checked a mobility device, it will be returned as quickly as possible. If there is any damage, report it immediately to Air Canada staff before leaving the airport.

### Traveling With a Support Person or Service Animal

Passengers who require constant assistance may travel with a support person. In some cases, seating arrangements are made to keep the passenger and support person together.

Service animals are also permitted on Air Canada flights, subject to documentation and advance notice. Emotional support animals may be subject to different rules.

Always confirm requirements before travel to avoid issues at the airport.

### Tips for a Smooth Experience

To ensure a comfortable journey, consider the following tips:
Request assistance as early as possible
Arrive at the airport early
Carry medical documents if applicable
Label mobility devices clearly
Keep essential items in your carry on
Communicate openly with airline staff

Preparation and clear communication make a significant difference in your travel experience.

### What to Do If Assistance Is Not Provided Correctly

While Air Canada strives to deliver high quality service, issues can occasionally occur. If assistance is delayed or missing, speak to a staff member immediately.

After your trip, you may submit feedback to Air Canada to help improve services. The airline values passenger feedback and takes accessibility concerns seriously.

### Conclusion

Requesting special assistance on Air Canada is a simple and supportive process designed to make air travel accessible for everyone. Whether you need help with mobility, medical needs, sensory challenges, or general support, Air Canada offers a range of services to meet your needs.

The key to a smooth experience is early planning, clear communication, and understanding what assistance is available. By requesting support in advance and preparing properly, you can enjoy a comfortable, dignified, and stress free journey from start to finish.