At the airport or on board - SWISS assists passengers with disabilities with many services adapted to their individual situation.
Disabled people and those with limited mobility have a right to air travel in accordance with EU Regulation no. 1107/2006 dated 5th July 2006 and the US DOT Regulation 14 CF Part 382 (see info-box on the right).
Please discuss your planned trip with your doctor and ask for details of the necessary preparations. Then book your flight in plenty of time (at least two days before departure) and notify us by phone of your requirements.
The special service depends on the kind and degree of impairment
Passengers with limited mobility (wheelchair)
At the airports in Zurich and Geneva, at EuroAirport Basel and most airports outside Switzerland, specially trained staff is at the service of our handicapped passengers. At most airports, we offer free wheelchairs and transport vehicles with escorts for departure and arrival. The armrests of the seats in our aircraft can be removed. We advise passengers in wheelchairs to come to the check-in counter 90 minutes before departure.
Long-haul flights: Upon request, we will assist you with our specially developed on-board wheelchair.
Own wheelchair: Please indicate the size and weight of your own wheelchair when making your reservation; transport in the freight compartment is free of charge.
Please note: For safety reasons, wheelchairs with dry, gel or leak-proof wet batteries can only be transported in the hold. Before the flight, the batteries must be secured, disconnected and their poles insulated. Wet batteries that are not leak-proof do not comply with safety regulations and are excluded from transport.
In some cases we may require a medical certificate or INCAD form. This form contains all necessary details and is deposited with SWISS - this facilitates your booking with a wheelchair.
Passengers with impaired hearing or vision
Upon request, we will provide an escort service at the airport. The transport of certified assistance dogs in the cabin is free of charge. Please inform us when making your reservation that you intend to take along an assistance dog on your flight.
Please note: Many countries have strict vaccination requirements for animals. If papers or required proof is missing, the country of your destination may refuse your dog entry.
Passengers with medical certificate
Depending on the situation and valid security regulations, it may be necessary to take along a medical certificate and present it upon departure and arrival. SWISS requires a medical certificate in the following cases to ensure your trip runs smoothly:
- Acute illness or after an accident
- Following surgery
- If a stretcher or oxygen are required
- If you are a passenger with a medical condition that requires you to travel with a companion. Our on-board staff will not provide any carer services
INCAD form (PDF)Please contact our reservations centre if you are unsure or require any further information.
