You can bring a walker. In Germany, airlines offer walkers and other mobility aids free of charge to passengers with reduced mobility, making your journey easier. So how do you request to bring a walker on board? This article explains what regulations and amenities airlines offer for walking aids to make your travel experience smoother and more comfortable.
What type of walking aid can I take on the plane?
German airlines allow disabled passengers to carry mobility aids (including walking frames) for free. So what types of mobility aids can you take with you? Let's find out:
1.Standard Walkers : Standard Walkers are simple walkers without wheels. Therefore, they fold easily and can be checked in at the gate or stored in the overhead bins if there is enough space.
2.Foldable walkers : These walkers are the most convenient for air travel. Since they fold easily, they can be stored in the overhead compartment or under the seat.
3.Rollator Walkers : Rollators have four wheels, brakes, and sometimes a seat. They offer optimal mobility and convenience, making them a great choice for seniors as they provide additional support. Many rollators are also foldable and can be checked in at the gate.
You can travel with any of the mobility aids listed above, however it is important that you communicate with the airline and inform them that you will be travelling with a mobility aid. This will make your travel experience easier.
What regulations apply to travelling with mobility aids in Germany?
In Germany, airline policies ensure that passengers with reduced mobility can travel safely and comfortably. Here are some of the main policies:
- Right to carry mobility aids and advance notification In Germany, you have the right to take mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walking frames and walkers on board without additional charges. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform the airline in advance, especially if you are carrying a larger or battery-operated mobility aid. This way, the airline can make the necessary preparations to accommodate your device appropriately.
- Boarding and flight arrangements Your mobility aid can be checked in at the gate so that it can be safely stowed in the aircraft's hold and returned to you immediately upon arrival at your destination. If your mobility aid needs to be stowed in the cabin, we will first check that there is enough space.
- Packing and handling guidelines If you are carrying an electric wheelchair or other battery-powered mobility aid, the airline follows strict packing and handling guidelines, especially regarding the batteries. This is because lithium-ion batteries require special attention due to their potential fire risk. In addition, the airline takes responsibility if your mobility aid is damaged during transport.
How should you prepare your rollator before the flight?
Being well prepared for your flight will ensure a smooth journey. Here are some preparations you should make:
Check with your airline: Different airlines have different rules regarding walkers. It's best to check with your airline first to see what specific requirements they have for walkers, such as size restrictions or if you need to notify them in advance.
Give it a walk-through: Take the time to inspect your rollator. Make sure the brakes work well, the wheels are secure and there is no visible wear. Clean it to avoid any problems during the inspection.
Practice folding: You will need to fold your rollator at the gate before boarding. You should know how to fold it effectively and secure any loose parts or accessories so they don't get lost or cause problems during transport.
Label it: Label your rollator with your contact information and flight details so it doesn't get lost and you can find it more easily.
Prepare for security screening: Rollators must go through security screening and may need to go through an x-ray machine. Be prepared to fold your rollator. If your rollator is checked in and stored in the cargo hold and you cannot walk without it, you can ask staff for assistance in advance.
Ask for assistance with boarding: When you book your ticket, inform the airline that you need assistance with boarding. Airlines offer early boarding to passengers who need more time to get settled.
Check it in at the gate: When you arrive at the gate, inform the agent that you have a mobility aid. They will tag your mobility aid and prepare it for gate check-in so you can use it before boarding, and then hand it over to the agent for storage in the cargo hold.
These steps will help you fully prepare your mobility aid for your flight, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Airlines support the transport of walkers or other mobility aids on board so you can take your rollator with you. Also, inform the airline in advance of the type of mobility aid you are bringing as this will help them make the necessary arrangements. By understanding and following the airline's policies and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Further reading: Can you take electric scooters on a plane?
FAQs
- Do you have to pay to take a walking aid on board the plane? No, you can bring a mobility aid on board free of charge. Legislation in Germany and similar regulations in other countries require airlines to support passengers with disabilities by allowing them to transport mobility aids such as walking frames, rollators and wheelchairs free of charge. This allows passengers with reduced mobility to travel comfortably without incurring additional financial burdens. It is best to inform the airline in advance if you plan to travel with a mobility aid, as this will enable them to make the necessary arrangements to assist you during your journey.
- Can I go through airport security with a walking aid? Yes, you can use a mobility aid to go through airport security. Security staff can assist passengers who use mobility devices such as walkers, rollators and wheelchairs. When you reach the security checkpoint, your mobility aid will be inspected. At this time, you will be asked to remove any items such as bags or baskets from your mobility aid and may go through an x-ray machine. If you are unable to go through a metal detector, security staff may manually screen you while you are seated or provide other screening methods. Make the entire security check smooth and courteous.
- Can a rollator (walker) be taken into the cabin? Rollators or mobility aids are usually allowed into the aircraft cabin, but this depends on the size of the mobility aid and the specific airline policy. Currently, most airlines allow passengers to bring a mobility aid or mobility device up to the boarding gate. The mobility aid can be checked in at the boarding gate, stowed in the cargo hold during the flight or, if there is space in the cabin, taken with you and stowed in the cabin, e.g. in the overhead bins above the seats or in a designated area. It is recommended to contact the airline in advance to confirm their policy and arrange in-cabin storage if necessary to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience.
