Traveling by air should be a comfortable and empowering experience for everyone—regardless of physical ability. For passengers who face mobility challenges, getting from check-in to takeoff can sometimes be daunting. Fortunately, with dedicated support like Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance, flying becomes significantly easier and more accessible.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the types of mobility assistance available, how to request it, and what to expect when flying with Virgin Atlantic.

What is Mobility Assistance?

Mobility assistance refers to the services provided to passengers who have difficulty walking or moving unassisted through the airport and aircraft. This includes travelers who:

1. Use wheelchairs or mobility scooters

2. Have temporary injuries (e.g., broken legs, recent surgery)

3. Struggle with long distances due to age or fatigue

4. Require help boarding or deplaning

Whether you're a frequent traveler or flying for the first time, Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance offers mobility support tailored to your individual needs.

Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance for Mobility Needs

Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance is designed to provide end-to-end mobility support, ensuring a smooth and dignified journey for passengers with reduced mobility. Here’s how the airline supports you:

1. Before You Travel

When booking your flight, you can request assistance with mobility challenges. Virgin Atlantic recommends doing this as early as possible—ideally at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure.

This allows the team to prepare and coordinate the right services for your specific needs.

2. At the Airport

Upon arrival at the airport, Virgin Atlantic offers:

1. Assistance from check-in to gate
   Staff will meet you at designated assistance points and help you check in, handle your luggage, and navigate through security.

2. Wheelchair services
   Manual or electric wheelchairs can be provided upon request. You can also travel with your personal mobility device, which Virgin Atlantic will carefully handle and store.

3. Priority boarding
   Passengers with mobility needs are often invited to board early to avoid crowded boarding areas and have extra time to settle in.

3. During the Flight

Virgin Atlantic's crew is trained to support passengers with reduced mobility, offering:

1. Help with seating and storing carry-ons

2. Assistance moving to and from restrooms using onboard aisle wheelchairs

3. Extra time and support during safety briefings

4. Accessible seating arrangements, depending on the aircraft and class

If you require medical equipment or need to travel with a personal assistant, the airline can also help accommodate those requests through the Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance team.

4. Arrival and Beyond

Once you land, assistance continues with:

1. Help disembarking the plane

2. Escort through immigration and baggage claim

3. Wheelchair support up to the airport exit or ground transportation

Virgin Atlantic works closely with airport accessibility teams to ensure a seamless handoff and consistent quality of care.

Traveling with Personal Mobility Devices

If you’re bringing your own wheelchair or scooter, Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance will guide you through the transport process. Key points to note:

1. Mobility devices travel free of charge

2. Battery-operated devices are welcome (with prior approval and documentation)

3. Devices are stored securely and returned immediately after landing

4. Staff will assist with manual handling to minimize damage

Make sure to provide the device’s dimensions, weight, and battery type when submitting your request.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

1. Book early: This gives the airline more time to prepare for your specific needs.

2. Be specific: Clearly describe your mobility challenges so the team can offer the right level of support.

3. Arrive early: Aim to get to the airport 2–3 hours before departure to avoid unnecessary stress.

4. Stay informed: Keep a copy of your mobility request and any medical documentation you may need.

Final Thoughts

Air travel doesn’t have to be difficult if you have reduced mobility. Thanks to Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance, passengers with mobility needs can enjoy a dignified, comfortable, and fully supported journey. From curb to cabin, Virgin Atlantic ensures that your experience is smooth, respectful, and safe.