How to Request Special Assistance Before You Travel?

Passengers with mobility issues—whether due to disability, age, or injury—are entitled to free assistance under European law.

To ensure support:

• Book at least 72 hours before departure
• Contact Universal Flights at 020 8609 8009
• We will coordinate with your airline and make every effort to assist if contacted later

Universal Flights complies with recognised accessibility regulations to support passengers with additional needs.

Who to Contact

• Contact your airline directly for onboard and airport-specific support
• Or inform Universal Flights, and we’ll relay your needs to the airline
• Assistance Line: 020 8609 8009

Planning Airport Navigation

• Visit your departure airport’s website to check terminal maps, walking distances, and accessibility features
• Look for clearly signposted help points at EU airports, where assistance is available

Travelling with a Carer

You may be required to travel with a carer if you are not fully self-reliant. A carer is necessary if you:

• Cannot eat, move, or use the toilet without help
• Cannot communicate with crew
• Require medication administration or breathing assistance

One carer may assist up to two dependent passengers. Carers must book their own seat.

Onboard Help May Include:

• Moving to and from seats
• Using an onboard wheelchair
• Help with hand luggage
• Lifting or carrying support

At the Airport:

EU airports must assist passengers with mobility issues, including age- or intellectually related impairments.

Wheelchair Assistance Tiers:

• WCHR: Wheelchair for long distances (passenger can ascend/descend steps)
• WCHS: Wheelchair for long distances and stairs
• WCHC: Full assistance (passenger cannot walk or move without help)

Please specify the type of assistance needed when booking.

Seating Arrangements

• Accessible Seats: May include movable aisle armrests or designated locations.
• Special Seats: Available for passengers with medical needs or reduced mobility — please inform us in advance.
• Emergency Exit Rows: Not available to passengers with mobility or intellectual impairments (CAA rules).
• Seat Width Issues: If you require extra space, you may:
  • Purchase additional adjacent seats.
  • Upgrade to a premium cabin (if available).

Please inform us at the time of booking.

Accommodation & Transport Abroad

Not all overseas services are fully accessible. Some resorts or terrain may be difficult to navigate, especially for wheelchair users.

Please:

• Verify accessibility before booking
• Contact us with any concerns
• Note that extra charges may apply for special arrangements

Failure to share your needs in advance may limit available support.

Fitness to Fly

You may require a doctor’s certificate for certain conditions. Airlines may request additional documentation if needed.

Wheelchairs & Mobility Aids

Notify the airline or Universal Flights in advance if you're travelling with:

• A manual or electric wheelchair
• Mobility scooters or walking aids
• Special seating equipment

Important: Battery type and size may affect approval. Let us know the specifications in advance to ensure clearance.

Medication

Carry:

• A doctor’s note or repeat prescription
• Enough medicine for the flight and 2–3 days extra
• A GP letter detailing dosage and purpose
• Original packaging with pharmacy labels
• A cool bag if needed (airline fridges are not available)

Onboard:

• Ask for a sharps disposal box
• Liquids must comply with airport security guidelines

Check with your destination's embassy about any restrictions on medications.

Special Meals

• A variety of special meals are available by pre-order — such as vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, kosher, and halal options.
• Requests must be made at least 48 hours before departure.
• Please inform us of dietary needs at the time of booking.

Oxygen & Stretchers

• Personal oxygen equipment is not permitted. Contact the airline for onboard arrangements.
• Stretchers are not accepted by some Airlines. Check with airlines about their policy.

Hearing Impaired

Support may include:

• Escorts to/from the aircraft
• Subtitled videos or individual briefings (if available)

Visually Impaired

Travellers who are blind must be accompanied by a carer with a paid seat. Available assistance:

• Airport escorts
• In-flight briefings
• Braille cards (on certain flights)
• General support throughout the journey

Expectant Mothers

• Up to 27 weeks: No medical certificate needed
• 28–34 weeks: Doctor’s note required, dated within 6 weeks
• 35+ weeks: Travel not permitted
• Multiple pregnancies: Must return before 32 weeks
• Cruise passengers: Travel not permitted after 24 weeks
• Miscarriage: Must be symptom-free for 24 hours and have a doctor’s letter

Travelling with a Cast

• Leg casts: Must be over 48 hours old
• Arm casts: Must be over 24 hours old
• Full leg casts: Require two additional seats

Need further help?

Contact Universal Flights at 020 8609 8009