Lufthansa Wheelchair Assistance Guide | Accessible Travel

Traveling with mobility needs can be seamless and stress-free when you fly with Lufthansa wheelchair assistance. As one of the leading global airlines, Lufthansa ensures an inclusive and accessible travel experience for passengers who require special mobility services. From pre-flight arrangements to arrival at your destination, every detail is covered with precision, care, and professionalism.

Booking Lufthansa Wheelchair Assistance: A Step-by-Step Process

Booking Lufthansa wheelchair assistance begins with clear, early communication. We recommend that passengers request wheelchair support at least 48 hours before departure. This ensures Lufthansa's ground staff and in-flight team are fully prepared to accommodate all your accessibility requirements.

To request assistance:

1. At the Time of Booking: You can select the wheelchair assistance option while booking your ticket online via Lufthansa’s website or through a travel agency.

2. After Booking: If you’ve already booked your flight, you can add the request by calling Lufthansa’s Service Center or through the “My Bookings” section on the official website.

3. Provide Specific Details: Clearly indicate whether you need help to/from the aircraft door, to the seat, or if you are bringing your own wheelchair or mobility aid.

Lufthansa classifies passengers needing mobility assistance into three main categories:

• WCHR: Wheelchair required for long distances but can climb stairs.

• WCHS: Wheelchair required for distances and stairs.

• WCHC: Wheelchair required for cabin seat—passenger is fully immobile.

Knowing these distinctions ensures you receive the precise service level needed.

Arrival at the Airport: What to Expect

On the day of travel, arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure. Upon arrival:

• Proceed to the check-in counter or Lufthansa’s designated Mobility Assistance Desk.

• Ground staff will arrange your wheelchair and assign a trained assistant to help with all formalities, including check-in, security clearance, and boarding procedures.

Passengers requesting Lufthansa wheelchair assistance will receive prioritized boarding. You’ll be among the first to board, ensuring a smooth and unhurried transition to your seat.

Bringing Your Own Wheelchair or Mobility Device

If you’re traveling with your personal wheelchair, Lufthansa allows carriage of two mobility aids free of charge, regardless of your ticket class.

Accepted Wheelchair Types:

• Manual Wheelchairs: Accepted in both cabin and cargo depending on size and foldability.

• Battery-Powered Wheelchairs: Must meet specific safety standards. Lithium-ion batteries should not exceed 300Wh (or two batteries of 160Wh each). Battery terminals must be insulated or removed and stored safely.

Notify Lufthansa during booking if you’re bringing an electric wheelchair. They’ll need details like make, model, dimensions, weight, and battery type to ensure safe handling.

In-Flight Support and Comfort

The Lufthansa cabin crew is trained to assist passengers with limited mobility, ensuring a dignified and comfortable flight experience.

Services Include:

• Assistance getting to and from the lavatory (note: crew cannot lift or carry passengers).

• Onboard aisle wheelchairs available on long-haul flights.

• Extra legroom and proximity seating upon request for those needing easier access.

While Lufthansa cannot provide personal medical care during the flight, passengers can bring a personal assistant or medical travel companion. In some cases, Lufthansa may require a Medical Information Form (MEDIF), especially for travelers with complex medical needs.

Connecting Flights and Transit Assistance

For journeys involving connecting flights, Lufthansa wheelchair assistance ensures a seamless transition from one aircraft to another. A specialized mobility team will meet you at the gate and escort you through:

• Immigration and customs if applicable

• Security checks

• The next boarding gate

This service is automatically arranged if you have requested assistance for the entire journey. Coordination is particularly strong at Lufthansa hubs such as Frankfurt and Munich, where dedicated Mobility Service Centers operate around the clock.

Arrival at Destination: Disembarkation and Beyond

Once you arrive at your final destination or connecting airport:

• You will be assisted off the plane after other passengers have disembarked, ensuring privacy and reduced congestion.

• Mobility agents will accompany you to baggage claim, customs, and exit points or transit lounges.

• If required, arrangements can also be made for local ground transportation or special transfers.

Passengers who booked Lufthansa wheelchair assistance can relax knowing support is available until they safely leave the airport.

Additional Accessibility Services

Lufthansa goes beyond just physical assistance to ensure all forms of accessibility are addressed:

• Hearing and Visual Impairments: Special boarding announcements, Braille safety cards, and individual briefings.

• Service Dogs: Allowed in the cabin free of charge. Advance notice and documentation are required.

• Medical Equipment: Portable oxygen concentrators and other medical devices may be used on board with prior approval.

Lufthansa follows IATA medical guidelines and may request physician clearance for certain conditions to ensure passenger safety.

Tips for a Smooth Wheelchair-Assisted Travel Experience

To make the most of your Lufthansa wheelchair assistance, consider the following tips:

1. Book Early: Services are limited per flight. Early reservation secures your slot.

2. Documentation Ready: Carry medical clearance or MEDIF if applicable.

3. Mark Wheelchair Clearly: Attach a tag with your name and contact info to your personal wheelchair.

4. Arrive Early: Always allow more time at the airport to accommodate any unexpected delays or last-minute paperwork.

5. Communicate Preferences: Inform staff about your needs and preferences for better personalized care.

Conclusion: Why Lufthansa Stands Out in Accessibility

Lufthansa’s dedication to accessibility is internationally recognized. From investing in high-quality training for ground staff to equipping airports with the latest mobility devices and prioritizing comfort, Lufthansa makes sure passengers with limited mobility enjoy a world-class flying experience.

Their specialized Medical Operation Center and Mobility Service Desk demonstrate an institutional commitment to inclusion, placing passenger dignity and independence at the forefront of service.

Whether it’s a short domestic hop or a transcontinental journey, Lufthansa wheelchair assistance ensures that every passenger—regardless of mobility—can travel with confidence, safety, and comfort.