Reduced mobility & wheelchair
We're here to help. If you’re traveling with a wheelchair or other mobility aid or need help with mobility, you're entitled to free assistance from check-in rignt onto the aircraft.
We recommend that you make a request for wheelchair and other mobility assistance at least 48 hours before departure. You can do this when you book your trip, under My trips, in the SAS app or by contacting SAS Customer Service
Important information when booking assistance
Are you able to do the following without help during your trip?
Fasten and unfasten your seatbelt.
Reach the emergency exit without assistance.
Retrieve and put on a life vest and oxygen mask independently.
Follow the safety briefing provided by the crew.
Eat meals, take medication, use the bathroom and communicate without help.
If you need help with any of the above, you'll need to add another traveler who can act as your personal safety assistant or care attendant.
Assistance at the airport
On the day of travel, allow extra time to ensure a smooth journey. Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic or European flights and 3 hours before flights outside Europe. Upon arrival, contact our staff at the check-in desk.
Domestic and European flights: arrive at least 2 hours before departure
Flights outside Europe: arrive at least 3 hours before departure
Traveling with a wheelchair and an infant
We’re committed to making travel safe and comfortable for everyone. If you’re traveling with a wheelchair and an infant, we kindly ask that you bring a travel companion. This allows us to provide the best possible support for you and your child from boarding to arrival.
We understand that each traveler’s situation is unique. If you need assistance or have questions, we’re here to help – just contact us at SAS Customer Service
Your rights as a traveler
We're committed to making air travel accessible for everyone. Depending on your destination, different regulations guarantee your rights as a traveler with a disability. Here’s an overview:
For all SAS flights
EU Regulation 1107/2006 protects your rights when traveling with a disability on all SAS-operated flights within Europe.
Flights between Scandinavia & US
If you’re traveling between Scandinavia and the US or if you booked your SAS flight via a US-based airline, the US Non-Discrimination Act (14 CFR Part 382) ensures non-discrimination and accessible air travel.
Learn more about the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights
Flights between Scandinavia & Canada:
SAS follows Part 2 of the Canadian Accessible Transportation Regulations to ensure accessible travel on flights to or from Canada. Show more about accessibility services on flights to and from Canada
If you have questions about how these regulations apply to your journey, feel free to contact SAS Customer Service.
FAQs
Can I bring my own wheelchair, crutches, walking poles or mobility aid?
Yes, you may bring 1 wheelchair or mobility aid free of charge. You’ll need to check it in, and it will be transported in the hold of the aircraft. If your equipment is large or heavy, please let us know when you book your trip. If you need crutches or walking poles for mobility, you may bring these on board as long as there are no spikes. Otherwise walking poles and sticks must be checked in as special baggage.
Can I bring an electric wheelchair on my flight?
Yes, you can bring an electric wheelchair. You'll need to check it in and carry removable lithium-ion batteries (max 300Wh) in your carry-on. We may not be able to transport some electric wheelchairs due to safety regulations, so remember to provide details (size, battery type, connection, disengagement) when you book.
What if I’m traveling with a foldable manual wheelchair?
If you’re traveling with a foldable manual wheelchair and can manage on your own, you don’t need to book assistance, but you still need to contact us to ensure there is enough space for your wheelchair on the aircraft.
On flights to and from destinations outside of Europe, 1 foldable manual wheelchair can be stowed in the cabin on a first come, first served basis. If the space is already occupied, we'll transport your wheelchair in the aircraft hold.
What is a personal safety assistant?
A personal safety assistant is a person who is at least 16 years old (unless local legislation stipulates otherwise) and who is physically and mentally able to take responsibility for you in the event of an emergency.
What is a personal care attendant?
A personal care attendant is someone who assists you with personal needs during the flight, such as eating, using the bathroom or taking medication.
Can I borrow a wheelchair at the airport?
Yes. If you've checked in your wheelchair as baggage, you can always borrow a manual wheelchair from the airport after you check in. It's a good idea to arrive early to ensure availability.
Who can request assistance?
Anyone with accessibility needs, whether permanent or temporary, can request assistance. This also includes if you’re injured or recovering from an injury or a surgical procedure.
What if I have an intellectual impairment?
If you need assistance for an intellectual impairment, you’ll need to fill out a form to request assistance.
How far in advance do I need to book assistance?
You need to book assistance at least 48 hours before departure.
What does it cost to add assistance?
Assistance is free of charge on all SAS flights.