At Lufthansa, we prioritize comfort and accessibility for all passengers. For travelers with reduced mobility, our Lufthansa wheelchair assistance program is designed to ensure a smooth and dignified journey from check-in to arrival. Whether you require support at the airport, during boarding, or after landing, our dedicated services are here to help every step of the way.

Booking Lufthansa Wheelchair Assistance in Advance

To guarantee seamless service, we highly recommend requesting Lufthansa wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours before departure. This can be done through:

• Lufthansa Service Center

• Your travel agent

• Manage Booking section on website

When submitting your request, please provide detailed information about the nature of your mobility restriction, including whether you can climb steps or require full wheelchair dependency. This allows us to tailor the support to your exact needs.

Types of Wheelchair Assistance Services Available

Lufthansa offers different levels of wheelchair assistance, based on international aviation codes set by IATA. The service you receive depends on your specific needs:

WCHR (Wheelchair – Ramp)

You can walk short distances and climb stairs but need help within the airport.

WCHS (Wheelchair – Steps)

You cannot climb stairs and need assistance at both check-in and boarding gates.

WCHC (Wheelchair – Cabin Seat)

You are completely immobile and need help to your seat on the aircraft and offboard.

When you request Lufthansa wheelchair assistance, make sure to specify the correct code so that the airline staff can prepare the necessary support equipment, including aisle chairs and lifts where required.

What to Expect at Departure Airport

Upon arriving at the airport, passengers who have requested Lufthansa wheelchair assistance should proceed to the designated special assistance counter. Our ground staff will be notified of your arrival and ready to:

• Escort you through check-in

• Assist with baggage handling

• Help with security screening

• Ensure priority boarding

Passengers are typically pre-boarded before general boarding to allow more time and privacy during the process.

Bringing Your Own Wheelchair or Mobility Device

Lufthansa welcomes passengers traveling with personal mobility aids, including:

• Manual wheelchairs

• Battery-powered electric wheelchairs

• Mobility scooters

• Walking frames or sticks

Key guidelines:

• Devices must comply with Lufthansa’s size and battery safety regulations.

• Gel and spillable batteries may require extra documentation.

• All mobility devices are transported free of charge and do not count toward your baggage allowance.

• Folding wheelchairs can often be taken to the aircraft door before being stored in the cargo hold.

We recommend labeling your wheelchair with your name and contact details and carrying essential tools in your hand baggage if minor disassembly is required.

In-Flight Accessibility and Support

Lufthansa aircraft are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with limited mobility:

• Onboard wheelchairs available on long-haul flights

• Movable armrests for easier transfer into seats

• Lavatories with support handles

• Trained cabin crew to assist with mobility needs

Please note that cabin crew are not allowed to lift or carry passengers, but they will provide all other necessary help within their training and duty scope.

Connecting Flights and Transit Assistance

If you are transiting through a Lufthansa hub like Frankfurt or Munich, our assistance continues without interruption. Dedicated staff members are assigned to guide you from one gate to the next, even if that involves terminal changes, bus transfers, or passing through additional security checks.

It’s important to have a sufficient layover time when booking connecting flights, especially if you have mobility needs. Lufthansa’s booking system typically flags this requirement to ensure appropriate connection times are offered.

Arrival and Post-Flight Support

Upon arrival, passengers who booked Lufthansa wheelchair assistance will be escorted from the aircraft to:

• Passport control

• Baggage claim

• Customs

• Exit or onward transportation (taxi, shuttle, etc.)

If your own wheelchair was loaded into the cargo hold, it will be returned to you at the aircraft door or baggage claim area, depending on airport regulations.

Flying with an Accompanying Person

Some passengers with reduced mobility may need to travel with an assistant, especially if they:

• Require physical help in the cabin

• Cannot understand or follow safety instructions independently

• Need constant medical supervision

Lufthansa does not provide personal care or constant companionship in-flight, so a travel companion is highly recommended in such cases. Companion seating arrangements can be made at no extra cost when booked early.

Special Considerations: Medical Devices and Oxygen

If you need to travel with medical oxygen or assistive breathing devices:

• Notify Lufthansa well in advance

• Provide a completed MEDIF (Medical Information Form) signed by your doctor

• Ensure your devices meet onboard compatibility standards

In some cases, portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) may be used in-flight if approved by Lufthansa’s medical desk.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

• Book early and confirm your assistance is recorded in the reservation.

• Arrive at the airport early, at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.

• Carry essential medical documents and prescriptions.

• Ensure batteries are compliant with airline safety standards.

• Double-check layover times if traveling with connections.

• Stay informed by reviewing Lufthansa’s mobility policy before travel.

Conclusion

At Lufthansa, we believe in making air travel inclusive and stress-free for everyone. Our comprehensive Lufthansa wheelchair assistance services are designed to offer the highest levels of comfort, dignity, and independence. Whether you need minimal help or full support from gate to gate, we’re committed to making your journey smooth and safe.

If you or a loved one needs mobility support on an upcoming trip, don’t hesitate to arrange Lufthansa wheelchair assistance today. You deserve to travel with confidence, ease, and full peace of mind.