How to Request Special Assistance on Lufthansa

Traveling by air should be accessible and comfortable for everyone. Lufthansa understands that some passengers may need additional help before, during, or after their flight. Whether you require mobility support, medical clearance, or guidance through the airport, Lufthansa special assistance services are designed to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

If you are wondering how to request special assistance on Lufthansa flight, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from booking to arrival at your destination. You will also learn about Lufthansa wheelchair assistance, disability support services, medical assistance procedures, and help available for elderly travelers.

Understanding Lufthansa Special Assistance Services

Lufthansa offers a wide range of passenger support services to accommodate different needs. These services are available for travelers with reduced mobility, temporary injuries, sensory impairments, medical conditions, and age-related challenges.

Lufthansa passenger assistance includes:

  • Wheelchair support at the airport

  • Assistance boarding and deplaning

  • Support during connections

  • Help for visually or hearing-impaired passengers

  • Medical assistance arrangements

  • Special seating accommodations

  • Support for elderly passengers

  • Traveling with medical devices

The airline complies with international aviation accessibility regulations to ensure equal access to air travel.

Who Can Request Special Assistance?

You can request Lufthansa disability support if you:

  • Have limited mobility

  • Use a wheelchair or walking aid

  • Have a temporary injury (e.g., broken leg)

  • Have a visual or hearing impairment

  • Require medical oxygen

  • Have cognitive or developmental disabilities

  • Are traveling as an elderly passenger needing assistance

  • Need support during long layovers

Even if your condition is temporary, you are eligible for Lufthansa medical assistance or mobility support.

How to Request Special Assistance on Lufthansa Flight

Understanding the correct procedure ensures your assistance is arranged properly. Below is the step-by-step guide for the Lufthansa wheelchair assistance request process and other support services.

1. During Flight Booking

The easiest way to request assistance is at the time of booking. When booking your ticket:

  • Select the option for special assistance.

  • Choose the type of help required (wheelchair, medical, etc.).

  • Provide details about your condition.

  • Submit any relevant medical information if requested.

Booking assistance in advance ensures the airline has enough time to coordinate airport services.

2. After Booking Your Ticket

If you already booked your flight and forgot to request support, you can still arrange Lufthansa special assistance later.

Steps include:

  • Log in to your booking through the airline’s “My Bookings” section.

  • Select “Add Special Assistance.”

  • Choose the appropriate service.

  • Confirm your request.

It is recommended to make the request at least 48 hours before departure.

3. Requesting Wheelchair Assistance

Lufthansa wheelchair assistance is one of the most commonly requested services. The airline provides three main types of mobility support:

  • Assistance to/from the aircraft

  • Assistance through the airport terminal

  • Assistance up to your seat onboard

When making your request, specify your mobility level:

  • Can walk short distances

  • Cannot climb stairs

  • Completely immobile

Providing accurate information helps the ground staff prepare suitable equipment.

4. Lufthansa Medical Assistance

Passengers with certain medical conditions may need medical clearance before flying. Lufthansa medical assistance includes support for:

  • Oxygen requirements

  • Stretcher services

  • Recent surgeries

  • Heart conditions

  • Advanced pregnancy cases

  • Contagious conditions

For medical clearance for air travel, you may need to submit a medical information form completed by your doctor. This ensures your condition is stable for flight.

The review process can take several days, so apply well in advance.

5. Lufthansa Disability Support

Lufthansa special assistance for disabled passengers includes tailored support for travelers with physical or cognitive disabilities.

Services include:

  • Priority boarding

  • Escort to connecting flights

  • Safety briefings adapted to individual needs

  • Assistance with carry-on items

  • Help navigating large airports

The airline staff is trained to provide respectful and dignified support throughout your journey.

Assistance at the Airport

Once you arrive at the airport, Lufthansa passenger assistance continues.

At Check-In

  • Dedicated counters may be available.

  • Staff will confirm your assistance request.

  • Mobility devices will be tagged properly.

Security Screening

Passengers with disabilities may receive priority lanes. Security staff are trained to handle medical devices and mobility aids.

Boarding

You may be invited to board early to settle comfortably in your seat.

Onboard Support

Cabin crew members are trained to assist passengers who requested special help.

They can:

  • Assist with storing mobility aids

  • Help reaching overhead compartments

  • Provide verbal safety instructions

  • Assist to and from the lavatory (within safety guidelines)

However, crew members cannot provide medical care, administer injections, or assist with eating or personal hygiene.

Traveling with Mobility Devices

If you use a wheelchair or mobility aid:

  • Manual wheelchairs are transported free of charge.

  • Electric wheelchairs require battery information.

  • Lithium batteries must meet safety regulations.

You can use your own wheelchair until the boarding gate in most cases.

Traveling with Medical Equipment

If you require medical devices:

  • Portable oxygen concentrators (approved models only)

  • CPAP machines

  • Insulin pumps

  • Nebulizers

You must inform Lufthansa in advance and carry necessary documentation.

Lufthansa Assistance for Elderly Passengers

Elderly travelers often require extra support, even without medical conditions. Lufthansa assistance for elderly passengers may include:

  • Escort through airport procedures

  • Help with luggage

  • Early boarding

  • Transfer assistance between gates

Family members can also coordinate support during booking.

Connecting Flights and Transit Assistance

If you have a connecting flight:

  • Staff will guide you between gates.

  • Assistance is coordinated between partner airlines.

  • Extra connection time is recommended.

Always inform the airline if your itinerary includes tight connections.

Traveling Internationally with Special Assistance

International travel may involve additional considerations:

  • Different airport layouts

  • Customs procedures

  • Varying security regulations

Lufthansa works with airport authorities worldwide to maintain consistent support standards.

Important Tips for a Smooth Experience

To ensure a seamless journey:

  • Request assistance at least 48 hours before departure.

  • Arrive at the airport early.

  • Carry medical documentation.

  • Inform staff about any changes in your condition.

  • Confirm assistance before boarding.

When Medical Clearance Is Required

You may need Lufthansa medical clearance for air travel if:

  • You recently had surgery.

  • You require onboard oxygen.

  • You have a serious cardiac condition.

  • You are in late-stage pregnancy.

  • You have a contagious illness.

Submit required medical forms early to avoid travel delays.

What Lufthansa Does Not Provide

It is important to understand service limitations:

  • No in-flight personal care.

  • No medication administration.

  • No lifting passengers physically.

  • No continuous medical supervision.

If you need such support, you may need to travel with a personal caregiver.

Preparing for Your Flight

Before departure:

  • Double-check your assistance request.

  • Pack medications in carry-on luggage.

  • Label mobility aids clearly.

  • Keep emergency contacts accessible.

Preparation reduces stress and ensures smoother coordination.

Lufthansa’s Commitment to Accessibility

Lufthansa is committed to inclusive travel experiences. The airline continuously trains staff and improves facilities to support passengers requiring assistance.

From booking to arrival, Lufthansa special assistance services aim to provide comfort, safety, and dignity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How early should I request special assistance on Lufthansa flight?

It is recommended to request assistance at least 48 hours before departure to ensure proper arrangements.

2. Is Lufthansa wheelchair assistance free of charge?

Yes, wheelchair and mobility assistance services are typically provided free of charge.

3. Do I need medical clearance to travel with oxygen?

Yes, if you require onboard oxygen or specific medical equipment, Lufthansa medical clearance for air travel may be necessary.

4. Can elderly passengers request airport escort services?

Yes, Lufthansa assistance for elderly passengers includes escort support through the airport upon request.

5. Can I bring my own wheelchair on Lufthansa flights?

Yes, passengers can travel with personal mobility devices. Inform the airline in advance about battery type and dimensions if it is electric.