travel assistance services

uprisehealth.com

Prepare for the Unexpected

TravelAid is a comprehensive travel assistance services program providing 24/7 emergency medical and concierge assistance services when you are outside your home country or 100 or more miles away from your primary residence in your home country.

Expatriates are eligible for medical services while in your host country, while traveling outside of your home country, or while traveling within your home country 100 or more miles away from your primary residence.

TravelAid services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

TravelAid: Overview of Services

TravelAid: Brochure

Contact TravelAid

 Services are Available 24 Hours a Day

Call:  410-453-6330   U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Bermuda

Email:  [email protected] www.uhcglobal.com

TravelAid services are provided by Uprise Health, and UnitedHealthcare Global. The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian) does not provide any part of TravelAid services. Guardian is not responsible or liable for care or advice given by any provider or resource under the program. This information is for illustrative purposes only. It is not a contract. Only the policy can provide the actual terms, services, limitations and exclusions. We are not responsible for availability, quality, result of or failure to provide any medical, legal or other care or service caused by conditions beyond our control. Guardian and Uprise Health reserve the right to discontinue TravelAid at any time. TravelAid services may not be available in all states.

Links to external sites are provided for your convenience in locating related information and services. Uprise Health, Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees expressly disclaim any responsibility for and do not maintain, control, recommend, or endorse third-party sites, organizations, products, or services and make no representation as to the completeness, suitability, or quality thereof.

GUARDIAN® and the GUARDIAN G® logo are registered service marks of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® and are used with express permission. 2020-107350 (9/22)

• Our Services

Are you looking for a professional travel companion to provide travel assistance during your trip?

Flying Companions is your answer. Our travel companions accompany you on your trip and provide travel assistance every step of the way to make your trip comfortable and stress-free from start to finish.

We were even featured in the New York Times, see the article here.

Whether you’re a senior traveler, a person with a disability, someone with travel anxiety, or just someone who prefers not to travel alone, our travel companions can help make your trip possible and enjoyable.

Our travel companions can pick you up at your home or meet you at your departure airport and then provide travel assistance with all aspects of your trip – from baggage handling, check-in, and security, through the flight, and all the way to baggage claim – everything you need to get safely and comfortably to your final destination. Our travel companions can also accompany you throughout an entire trip, providing travel assistance from beginning to end.

Many people want or need to travel by air but are reluctant to go alone or simply need some help along the way. Seniors, children, persons with disabilities, persons with flying anxiety – each person needs a different level of travel assistance. Whether you need wheelchair and bathroom assistance or simply the reassurance of having a travel companion during the trip, Flying Companions can help.

Our travel companions also coordinate and communicate with your loved ones throughout the trip to make sure they know you’re safe and sound. Our travel companions can also accompany children who are meeting a parent or family member at the arrival airport.

Paid Air Travel Escort We are responsible chaperones, and offer you safe air traveling with a paid companion for child travel, elderly travel, impaired travel and disabled travel. If you are looking for a flying companion, contact us today. Personal Assistant Traveling Safe Travel Chaperone Child Travel Companion Disabled Travel Companion Elderly Travel Companion Impaired Travel Companion Medical Travel Companion

Copyright © 2013 - All Rights Reserved.

Emergency Medical and Travel Assistance services while traveling — anytime, anywhere

In addition to the insurance protection provided by your insurance plan, chubb accident & health has arranged with axa, our assistance provider to provide you with access to its travel assistance services around the world., travel intelligence portal, helpful resources, in the event of an emergency, this dedicated travel portal offers personalized intelligence for the life cycle of your trip. you will have access to real-time destination-based tips and alerts, country and city risk analysis, an international medical network and more., open 24/7, 365 days a year, within the usa: +1-855-327-1414 , outside the usa: +1-630-694-9764 .

Travel assistance services provided by AXA Assistance USA, Inc.  Insurance underwritten and provided by ACE American Insurance Company or Federal Insurance Company.  Chubb is the marketing name used to refer to subsidiaries of Chubb Limited providing insurance and related services. For a list of these subsidiaries, please visit our website at www.chubb.com.  All products may not be available in all states. This communication contains product summaries only.  Coverage is subject to the language of the policies as actually issued.  Surplus lines insurance sold only through licensed surplus lines producers.  Chubb, 202 Hall's Mill Road, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889-1600.

Click below to download the Chubb Member's Guide.

First time user, click here to register:, returning visitors, click here to log in:.

• Cookie Settings
• California Resident Privacy Policy

sign up and keep track of your travel insurance events

Travel Assistance and Other Services Included with Generali Travel Protection Plans

What if you encounter an emergency on vacation and need a translator, medical referral or cash transfer? Many people know the value of travel insurance , which can reimburse you for certain unforeseen mishaps such as baggage loss, flight delays or a covered situation that could require you to cancel your trip . But do you know that our plans include travel insurance services that allow travelers to get help with certain emergency situations that could come up during their trip, or even just help finding a good restaurant at your destination?

Look below for a list of the travel insurance services included with our Standard, Preferred and Premium travel protection plans and how they can help you before, during and after your trip. If you buy a Generali travel insurance plan, it’s good to know what travel assistance services are at your fingertips, just in case you need them.

Generali policyholders that need emergency help from an available service can call 877-243-4135 toll-free 24 hours a day from within the United States, or call collect to 240-330-1529 from around the world.

Looking to insure your trip?  Get the right travel protection plan

24-Hour Emergency Assistance Services

These services offer on-the-spot and immediate travel assistance for unexpected problems that can arise during a trip. The hotline is available to Generali policyholders 24/7 for help anytime, anyplace while traveling.

Medical Referral If an emergency occurs during a trip that requires a visit to a doctor, you can call the Emergency Hotline to obtain the names of local qualified doctors who speak their language. If additional medical services are required, the assistance provider is prepared to consult with the attending physician and provide assistance services that they believe is in your best interest.

Traveling Companion Assistance If a traveling companion loses previously-made travel arrangements due to a medical emergency, a qualified assistance provider will arrange for the traveling companion’s return home.

Emergency Cash Transfer If your cash or traveler’s checks are lost or stolen, or unanticipated emergency expenses are incurred, the assistance provider will help arrange for an emergency cash transfer in currency, traveler’s checks, or other forms as deemed acceptable by the assistance provider. The assistance provider will advance up to $500 after satisfactory guarantee of reimbursement from you.

Legal Referral The assistance provider will locate attorneys available during regular working hours. Assistance will also be provided to advance bail bond, where permitted by law. Policyholders are responsible for contracted legal fees.

Locating Lost or Stolen Items This travel assistance service offers help locating and replacing lost or stolen luggage, documents and personal possessions.

Replacement of Medication and Eyeglasses Arrangements can be made to fill a prescription that has been lost, stolen or requires a refill whenever possible (subject to local law). They will also arrange for shipment to replace eyeglasses. ( Costs for shipping of medication or eyeglasses, or a prescription refill, etc. are the responsibility of the insured.) The refill may require a visit to a local physician. You should be prepared to furnish the assistance provider with a copy of their original prescription and/or the name and phone number of their regular attending physician.

Embassy and Consular Services Referrals can be arranged if you need the assistance of U.S. embassies and consulates.

Worldwide Medical Information Information can be provided, such as necessary inoculation and vaccination information, and detailed general health and medical descriptions of destinations around the world.

Interpretation/Translation Call the assistance provider for help with interpretation in all major languages or will be referred to a translation service for written documents.

Emergency Message Relay Emergency messages can be relayed to and from friends, relatives, personal physicians and employers.

Pet Return If you’re traveling with a pet and you experience a medical emergency, this travel assistance service can provide arrangements to return the pet home.

Vehicle Return If you experience a medical emergency or mechanical problem with your vehicle that prevents you from driving, this travel assistance service can make arrangements to return the vehicle to your home or the closest rental agency.

Also read:  What to Know Before you Go on a Trip with Travel Insurance

Meet the Team

Generali travel insurance plans include access to an international network of employees and partners available to provide the best possible travel and emergency assistance services worldwide, so you can travel with more peace of mind.

In-House Medical Experts

Telemedicine.

Getting sick on vacation is never fun, but it doesn’t have to be difficult for you to find help if that happens. If you’re not feeling well and would like to consult with a doctor via phone or video, a virtual visit with a licensed physician is available 24 hours a day as part of the Medical and Dental coverage included with your travel protection plan. Connect instantly with a network of physicians for information, advice, and treatment, including prescription medication, when appropriate and legally permitted.

Telemedicine services are available during your domestic or international trip. Limitations may exist on the availability of prescription medication outside of the U.S.

Read more about Telemedicine

No Out-of-Pocket Medical

Medical and Dental coverage included with our plans can reimburse you for necessary medical, surgical and emergency dental care costs if you get sick or accidentally injured on your trip. But, our plans also include a travel insurance service that can make that process much easier for you.

With our No Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses service, we can schedule your doctor’s appointment and arrange upfront payment of up to $1,000 if you have an acute illness during your trip, while traveling in an area where this service is available. To use this service during your trip, call Emergency Assistance .

Identity Theft Resolution

Everyone should be on guard about identity theft, but it’s something that travelers should be especially wary of, as they’re usually carrying documents, IDs and credit cards in unfamiliar places. Many travelers also rely on public wifi to look things up on their trip. This travel insurance service is designed to help our policyholders if their identity is compromised during their vacation.

ID Theft Resolution Services include:

• Contacting creditors to notify them about fraudulent activity and request to cancel affected cards and issue new ones
• Assistance reporting the fraudulent activity to local authorities and forwarding a report to creditors
• A helpful ID Theft Resolution Kit
• Assistance in notifying banks or other agencies if identification such as an ATM card, passport or driver’s license is stolen
• Education about how identity theft happens and tips on protective measures for the future

When you buy a Generali travel insurance plan you’ll not only have access to this travel assistance service while on vacation, but also after your trip, since often times travelers don’t notice the theft until they arrive home. ID Theft Resolution Service is automatically included for a full 180 days starting on the scheduled departure date.

ID Theft Resolution does not include assistance for thefts involving non-U.S. bank accounts.

Also read:  9 Ways to Prevent Identity Theft When You Travel

Concierge Services

Would you like access to a service that offers pre-trip assistance, helps schedule golf tee times, makes restaurant, airline and rental car reservations, and reserves tickets for entertainment and other special events? Our plans include concierge services that can help you with those situations and more, both before and during your trip.

See examples of how travel concierge services can be used

Here’s an overview of what’s included with our concierge services:

City profiles : provides access to information on over 10,000 destinations worldwide, including a complete report on local entertainment, social customs, and health advisories

Epicurean needs : arranges the delivery of specialized foods and beverages to home or office, including gourmet food and fine wine

Event ticketing : assists with acquiring tickets to virtually any sporting, theater or concert event worldwide

Flowers and gift baskets : includes the purchase and shipment of flowers and gift baskets to friends, family members and business associates

Golf outings and tee times : provides referrals and tee times at golf courses around the world

Hotel accommodations:  offers research and recommendations on hotels worldwide and can book reservations if requested

Meet-and-greet services : arranges for pick-ups of friends, family members or business associates at airports or other common carrier destinations by limousine personnel

Personalized retail shopping assistance : includes purchasing selected retail items at your request

Procurement of hard-to-find items : our service provider will use every means possible to obtain an obscure or exotic item at your request

Pre-trip travel assistance : provides information on travel destinations, city profiles, weather, special events, ATM locations, currency exchange rates, immunization and passport requirements as well as related services

Restaurant reviews and reservations : provides information on restaurants worldwide and the ability to book reservations from anywhere, anytime

Rental car reservations : provides worldwide reservations through most major rental car agencies

Airline reservations : helps reserve full-service air travel accommodations to destinations worldwide

Pet services locator : helps find pet-related services such as veterinarians and pet sitters

This is a service to research, refer, arrange and/or place a reservation. The actual costs of goods will need to be paid by the traveler.

Learn more about travel insurance: •  What is Travel Insurance? •  How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? •  Top 5 Reasons to Get Travel Insurance

You may choose to insure your trip in case you encounter a medical emergency or you’re forced to cancel your trip due to a covered event, but Generali travel insurance plans aren’t just about the insurance coverages. When you purchase one of our plans, you get access to dozens of different travel assistance services at your fingertips when you need them most.

*Services are provided by Generali's designated provider.

Travel Resources

Average Customer Rating:

Thank you for visiting csatravelprotection.com

As part of the worldwide Generali Group we have rebranded our travel protection plans to Generali Global Assistance, offering the same quality travel insurance, emergency assistance and outstanding customer service as you've come to rely on for the last 25 years. Welcome to our new website!

Final step before you're signed up

Please verify that you're human.

Search When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select.

Choose the plan that meets your needs and spend more time enjoying your international experience not worrying about your insurance coverage.

• Customer Stories
• Resume Quote / Application

What type of coverage do you need?

• Vacation / Holiday
• Visitor / Immigrant
• Student / Scholar
• Employer / Business Traveler
• Expat / Global Citizen
• Mission / Social Good
• Marine Captain / Crew
• Flights / Airfare
• Cruises / Excursions

Travel Medical Insurance

Temporary coverage for accidents, sicknesses, & emergency evacuations when visiting or traveling outside of your home country.

Popular Plans

International health insurance.

Annually renewable international private medical insurance coverage for expats and global citizens living or working internationally.

Travel Insurance

Coverage designed to protect you from financial losses should your trip be delayed, interrupted, or cancelled.

Traveler Services

Non-insurance services for worldwide emergency evacuation, field rescue, medical transport, and 24/7/365 travel assistance.

Enterprise Services

Meet your duty of care obligations with confidence, knowing your travelers are safe, healthy, and connected wherever they may be in the world.

What type of organization do you represent?

Corporations, insurance companies, educational institutions, mission organizations, maritime industries, government agencies, non-profit organizations, medical & travel assistance, global workers' compensation case management, security assistance services, insurance administrative services, medical & travel assistance services, global support when your travelers need it.

/images/library/brochures/medicaltravelcover.tmb-lowwebp800.webp?Culture=en

Understanding Your Needs. Exceeding Your Expectations

F or almost 30 years, we have provided global benefits and assistance services to millions of customers around the world. We’re committed to being there with our customers wherever they may be, delivering superior support and assistance in times of need. With 24/7 medical and security management services, multilingual staff, claims administrators, and highly-trained customer service professionals, your travelers will be protected with a duty of care second to none.

Medical Assistance Services

We provide an array of medical assistance services to support our travelers in need of medical attention. These services range from informational research such as referrals to more robust medical monitoring provided by our clinical team.

• Medical Monitoring
• Medical Advice
• Cost Management & Medical Payments
• Medical & Dental Referrals
• Mental Health Assistance
• Teleconsultation
• Pandemic Assistance

Medical Transport Services

In a medical emergency, we provide emergency medical transport services that have a proven track record of helping our travelers get the care they need. We also help contain program costs and coordinates communications across borders and constituents every step of the way home.

• Dispatch of Physician
• Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• Return of Dependent Children, Travel Companion, and/or Remains

Travel Assistance Services

We are here to support our travelers with their travel needs, whether they are looking for pre-trip information, such as vaccination or visa requirements, or they experience issues, such as lost or stolen travel documents.

• Emergency Cash/Bail Assistance
• Legal Referrals
• Lost Document & Luggage Assistance
• Pre-trip and Cultural Information
• Travel Intelligence

Travel Risk Management Solutions

We have extensive experience dealing with complex, dangerous, and remote transport and response. Our team of international, multilingual specialists are accustomed to working in multiple time zones and with multiple languages and currencies. Our global reach means we can work without barriers with a duty of care approach.

• Global Risk and Threat Analysis
• Real-Time Traveller Tracking and Communication
• Security and Medical Incident Response
• Enterprise Support and Remote Site Planning
• Pandemic Planning and Response
• Customizable Mobile App

Designed for...

Interested in our services? Let's get connected.

Need extra protection and coverage.

Explore our international medical & travel insurance options.

Request Information

To request more information, please fill out the form below. after you submit the form, we will have an img representative contact you., contact information, company information, how can we help.

Thank you for your submission! A representative will be with you shortly.

Select your language, headquarters, send a message.

If you need to send personal information such as medical records, payment information, etc., please use our Secure Message Center .

Thank you for your message! We'll be in touch shortly.

• English (CA)
• English (UK)
• Deutsch (DE)
• Deutsch (CH)

6 of the best travel assistance companies in 2024

What are travel assistance companies, what should you look out for in your travel assistance solution, does my company need to use a travel assistance company, the 6 best travel assistance companies for your business.

• Evacuation capabilities: for field rescue and evacuation. You need a solution that can help to organize and successfully provide emergency assistance or medical evacuations from destinations worldwide.
• 24/7 support: for emergencies and non-emergencies. A 24/7 emergency and non-emergency hotline that offers clients support at any point in their trip—from an early morning start to middle of the night requests.
• Destination reports: for your traveling employee’s destination. These reports will warn of any risks to consider, and offer resources for mitigating those risks when traveling.
• Concierge services: for dealing with issues with trip cancellation, travel delay, and travel documents. Unexpected issues can arise, and you need a solution that can offer personalized support for your employees.
• Visa and passport services: for employees traveling to destinations far and wide. Ensuring all documentation is correct and up-to-date is essential for smooth business travel.
• Travel insurance options: to protect you and your staff members whilst away on business travel

Travel assistance companies provide around-the-clock support

Travel assistance companies help with travel issues, travel assistance companies help with emergencies, 1. travelperk.

• Receive 24/7 support from real humans in 15 seconds or less
• 1-1 concierge services to help cover every detail of your trip, from organizing travel to accommodation and meeting rooms
• TravelCare for risk assessment and management with pre- and during travel alerts, and destination guidelines, so that travelers fly safe, and admins know of any problems that might come up during the trip
• Real-time traveler notifications to keep employees in the loop
• Integrations available with a number of duty of care providers like Riskline, International SOS, Safeture, and others to provide you with the safest experience possible
• An industry-leading inventory that offers the best deals on the market–including flights, accommodation, trains, and car rentals.
• FlexiPerk offers travelers flexible travel solution by enabling organizations to get 80% of their money back when canceling up to two hours in advance
• Carbon offsetting for business travel with GreenPerk
• Ample third-party integrations, including expense management, meeting space, mobility, security, sustainability, travel, and user management, enable you to integrate the platform with your existing workflow

2. Global Rescue

• Global rescue team that specializes in supporting and rescuing employees in need of assistance
• Destination reports and event alerts to provide guidance for those who need it when traveling to unfamiliar destinations

3. Travel Guard

• Translation services available in other 40 different languages
• Wide range of insurance coverage and plans to suit your needs

4. Allianz Travel Insurance

• 24/7 award-winning assistance worldwide
• A network of prescreened medical facilities to help ensure you find the right medical providers for your needs

5. Generali Travel Insurance

• Receive ID Theft Resolution and Concierge Services for all travel
• Three separate insurance plans to cater to affordability and provide ample coverage for your needs

6. AMEX Global Business Travel

• 24/7/365 customer support services to handle issues whenever they occur
• Personal travel assistants to help provide a unique and tailored experience to every client who books business travel

Click below for a more detailed comparison between Amex GBT and TravelPerk:

Improve your travel experiences with travel assistance companies.

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

• See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
• Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
• Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

Top 14 European trade shows in 2024 & beyond

5 best business travel management companies in San Francisco

6 best business travel management companies in Los Angeles

• Business Travel Management
• Offset Carbon Footprint
• Flexible travel
• Corporate Travel Resources
• Corporate Travel Glossary
• For Travel Managers
• For Finance Teams
• For Travelers
• Careers Hiring
• User Reviews
• Integrations
• Trust Center
• Help Center
• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Modern Slavery Act | Statement
• Supplier Code of Conduct

How Medical Travel Assistance Programs Help Families During Health Crises

Shahzad Masood

September 26, 2024

Table of Contents

Understanding medical travel assistance, the benefits of medical travel assistance, how to access medical travel assistance, challenges faced by families, success stories, future of medical travel assistance.

Medical travel assistance programs support families during health crises by covering travel expenses, coordinating transportation, and offering logistical help for out-of-town treatments. These programs alleviate financial burdens, provide emotional support, and ensure access to critical care, making a significant difference for families facing challenging medical situations.

Medical travel assistance programs are essential services designed to support families who need to travel for medical treatment. Veteran non profit organizations in Washington, DC , often provide these initiatives, such as Luke’s Wings, which connects patients with the necessary resources to ensure safe and timely travel during health emergencies.

These programs typically offer various services, including arranging flights, ground transportation, and lodging. By providing these services, the programs aim to alleviate the logistical and financial burdens families face during critical health crises, allowing them to focus on the well-being of their loved ones. These programs are crucial in emergencies and ongoing treatments requiring long-term commitments, offering consistent support to reduce stress.

Families facing health crises often experience financial and emotional stress. Medical travel assistance can significantly reduce these burdens by providing logistical, economic, and emotional support. Research indicates that when appropriate travel plans are established, stress levels drop, and families are free to concentrate on the well-being of their loved ones.

Financial Relief

One of the primary benefits of medical travel assistance is financial relief. Traveling for medical care can be expensive, with transportation, lodging, and meals quickly adding up. Assistance programs often cover these expenses, easing the financial strain on families. This is particularly beneficial for families who already have extensive medical bills and cannot afford added travel costs.

Emotional Support

Medical travel assistance programs also provide much-needed emotional support. Knowing that travel logistics are being handled can offer families peace of mind during a chaotic time. Additionally, some programs provide counseling services or connect families with support groups, creating a network of emotional support that helps them cope better during treatment.

Many organizations offer medical travel assistance, and each has its eligibility requirements. It’s crucial to contact these organizations directly to understand the application process. Families can also get referrals from hospitals or social workers familiar with these services.

Families should gather necessary documents such as medical records, proof of income, and travel itinerary details. Depending on the case’s complexity and urgency, the approval process might take a few days to several weeks. It is advisable to start the application process as soon as travel needs are identified to ensure timely assistance.

• Financial strain
• Emotional stress
• Logistical hurdles

These challenges can compound the difficulty of managing a health crisis. Organizations like Mercy Corps strive to address these issues through targeted support, offering a holistic approach to aid families during these challenging times. Financial strain can often destabilize a family’s status quo, leading to further emotional stress and logistical issues.

The support these organizations provide is not limited to transportation but extends to other areas, such as lodging and meal planning, making the entire process smoother. This all-inclusive strategy guarantees that no family need is disregarded when they are going through a crisis.

Medical travel assistance programs have been instrumental in helping families travel for life-saving operations. CNN reported on a family’s successful journey to a top medical facility, thanks to a non-profit organization’s support. The emotional and financial assistance provided was crucial for the child’s successful surgery. These anecdotes demonstrate the profound effects that structured support networks and communities may have on people’s lives.

As the healthcare landscape evolves, so do the needs of patients requiring travel assistance. Organizations must adapt to these changing needs through innovative solutions and partnerships. Ongoing research and collaboration will ensure these programs continue to offer critical support to families.

In the future, technological advancements could play a significant role in improving medical travel assistance. The innovation potential is vast, from more efficient matching of patients to appropriate travel resources to virtual consultations that can reduce the need for travel altogether. Expanding reach and improving efficiency will be central to the next development phase in medical travel assistance.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

most recent

EDUCATION , TECHNOLOGY

Predovac: innovating the education landscape.

ENTERTAINMENT

Fell into the arms of a mad villain spoilers: unveiling the spoilers.

Uncategorized

Everything about meet the press s76e49.

Exploring the Vital Role of Back Casting Room

Everything About /Liveamoment.org/

Fantasy Football Gambling – 5 Signs That You Need Immediate Treatment

[email protected]

© COPYRIGHT 2023, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | PROUDLY HOSTED BY crispme

About us Disclaimer

•  Emergency Assistance

Travel assistance: why do I need it?

Assist Card's protect you not only in the medical field, for example emergency dental care, for a sprain or fracture or general ailments, but also with assistance of other kinds such as baggage location, reimbursement of expenses for delayed or canceled flights, assistance in case of theft or loss of documents and much more. Travel with the peace of mind of being covered for any eventuality!

• Travel Companions
• GOMO+ Upgrades
• The Globetrotter
• Testimonials

Compassionate Travel Companions Lending

A helping hand, what is a travel companion.

Mayo Clinic referred me to GOMO Travel after my heart surgery.  Pricing is very competitive and communication, flexibility, and concern for my… Read more “John T”

We were out-of-town when mandatory evacuations from Hurricane Dorian were imposed on my mother’s Senior Living center in Florida. We… Read more “Keith W.”

I can attest that if you’re looking for someone to provide peace of mind, medical expertise, and a calming presence… Read more “J. Roche”

When I needed to get to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, GOMO was almost like a message from the heavens.… Read more “Charlie P.”

Kerri has a compassionate and attentive demeanor that is comforting to those with travel needs.

I was apprehensive about traveling after chemo, but Kerri made my bucket list vacation easy. I couldn’t have done it… Read more “Mary B.”

Our Mission

- kerri johnson, rn, cdp, emba, ready to go.

• Get Started

Compare and Choose

Plan Comparisons

With multiple plans to choose from, EA+ delivers indispensable services with enhanced convenience and protection for those who need it — for a low annual rate that’s hard to beat.

Exclusively for MileagePlus® members

Exclusively for southwest rapid rewards® members.

Based on your needs and your budget, an annual EA+ plan exists that’s right for you.

Essential Plan Guide

Premier Plan Guide

Medical Evacuation Services

Transportation home, assistance for companions, assistance services, peace of mind is priceless.

The low annual rates of Emergency Assistance Plus ensure everyone can travel with confidence.

Subscribe to the Newsletter

" * " indicates required fields

By subscribing, you give us permission to send you valuable content, expert advice, and exclusive EA+ offers. We will not sell or distribute your email address to any third party at any time. View our privacy policy .

• Business Partners

Travel Assistance

Being Where It Matters, When It Matters

For more than half a century, travel assistance has been our business and we pride ourselves in providing excellent customer support when it matters, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We are proudly part of The Europ Assistance (EA) Group, who pioneered the travel assistance industry in 1963 and continues to be the leader in providing real-time assistance anywhere in the world. With the largest operational footprint in the assistance industry and decades of large volume and case history, we offer clients unparalleled global expertise and experience.

The EA Group provides assistance every 2 seconds worldwide 24/7 via 35+ multilingual assistance centers. We also manage 10,000 medical transports annually via air ambulance and commercial airline. Our wealth of in-house expertise, resources and technology enable us to provide turnkey logistical support for all types of evacuations.

Given our commitment and long history in the travel assistance space, Generali Global Assistance has been on the front lines of numerous global crisis and has the proven ability and resources to handle large-scale events. From the Asian tsunami in 2004, where we assisted more than 1,000 people, to the earthquake in Japan to the Arab Spring, we prove our logistical mastery managing assets to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers.

Trusted by Leading Insurers

Generali Global Assistance is a market leader in providing travel assistance services for the insurance industry. We count over 50 of the top accident, health, property and casualty insurers among our valued pool of clients. Our travel assistance services provide the human guarantee to complement the financial guarantee of these insurers’ policies, allowing them to provide their members with individualized assistance and peace of mind while traveling.

Key Services

Generali Global Assistance offers a suite of services to help travelers in their time of need – from small inconveniences like losing medication to life-threatening situations – all delivered with a caring, human touch. Key features of this program include:

Medical Assistance Services

• Emergency medical payment
• Medical search and referral
• Replacement of medication and eyeglasses
• Medical monitoring
• Visitation with family member or friend
• Dependent children assistance
• Traveling companion assistance
• Emergency evacuation
• Repatriation of mortal remains
• Trip interruption

Personal Assistance Services

• Pre-trip information
• Language interpretation
• Location of lost or stolen items
• Emergency cash
• Emergency travel arrangements
• Legal assistance or bail
• Emergency message relay
• Vehicle return

Contact us to learn more about our travel assistance services.

I will like to thank this company for their excellent job done with my husband’s case… The coordination of the retuned flight to United States, was excellent! – Travel Assistance Customer

To get more information on our corporate solution fill out our contact form.

June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova; North Korea; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

Allianz Global Assistance is a world leader in the travel insurance and assistance industry because we really do help people—anytime, anywhere.

As a principal provider of travel insurance , corporate assistance, and concierge services, we can help our customers find solutions to any travel-related problem. Our partners number in the thousands and include travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities and credit card companies.

Allianz Global Assistance is owned by Allianz SE, the world’s largest diversified insurance company. Thanks to the scale of our parent company, we can provide innovative products with worldwide coverage at a competitive rate. Look for the Allianz Global Assistance logo every time you book a trip, purchase show tickets or register for an event.

Trusted by Millions

More than 70 million travelers depend on us to protect them while they’re away from home—and we take that role very seriously. That’s why we’re dedicated to give our customers the help they need and the assistance benefits they deserve.

Assistance Experts

“Assistance” is in our name because it’s our specialty. We provide a wide range of assistance and concierge services that can help our customers get the most out of their trip. Give us a call to see how we can help you today. We think you’ll be surprised with what we can do.

A History of Helping

Allianz, our parent company, has been helping protect the fabric of America for more than a 100 years. In fact, Allianz companies insured the Wright Brothers' first flight, the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge and many Hollywood movies.

Share this Page

• {{errorMsgSendSocialEmail}}

Affiliate Program

Become a Partner

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

Return To Log In

Your session has expired. We are redirecting you to our sign-in page.

• Salary Platform
• Free reports
• Sign up free

Travel assistance in corporate benefits

In an era defined by global connectivity, firms are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing their employees with travel assistance as part of a comprehensive benefits package. This article delves into the essence of travel support, exploring its implications, benefits, drawbacks, and the tangible impact it can have on both employees and employers. Additionally, we examine where in the world and across industries, this employee benefit is prevalent, supported by insightful numerical data.

Understanding travel assistance

Travel assistance is a comprehensive set of services designed to support employees during work-related travel. It goes beyond traditional perks, encompassing a range of offerings aimed at ensuring employees’ well-being and safety while navigating the complexities of business trips.

Implications of travel assistance

• For firms with international operations or employees engaged in global business activities, travel support is a strategic investment. It facilitates global mobility, enabling employees to navigate unfamiliar territories with the assurance of support and resources.
• Travel assistance is a crucial risk mitigation tool. It includes provisions for medical emergencies, evacuation plans, and security measures. It alleviates concerns for both employees and employers regarding unforeseen challenges during business travel.
• Beyond the logistical aspects, travel support prioritizes the overall well-being of employees. It acknowledges the potential stressors associated with frequent travel and aims to provide the necessary support systems to enhance mental and physical health.

Benefits of travel assistance

• Travel assistance often includes access to 24/7 medical support. It ensures that employees receive prompt and quality healthcare in case of illness or injury during their travels. In fact, research indicates that for every dollar spent on travel support programs, companies can potentially save up to four dollars in emergency medical and travel-related costs.
• In regions with potential security risks, travel support provides employees with resources for crisis management, evacuation plans, and real-time updates to navigate unforeseen situations.
• From flight and accommodation arrangements to ground transportation, travel assistance streamlines logistical challenges, allowing employees to focus on their professional objectives rather than navigating travel logistics.
• By minimizing the stress and uncertainties associated with travel, support programs contribute to enhanced employee productivity during work trips, ultimately benefiting the employer through optimized business outcomes.

Drawbacks and considerations

• One of the primary drawbacks is the potential cost associated with implementing and maintaining comprehensive travel assistance programs. However, this needs to be weighed against the potential costs and risks of unassisted travel.
• There is a risk of employees becoming overly reliant on travel support, potentially leading to a diminished sense of personal responsibility for their well-being during business trips.

Measuring the impact

• Tracking the utilization of travel assistance services and employee engagement with these resources provides insights into the effectiveness of the program.
• Periodic surveys gauging employee satisfaction with travel support services and seeking feedback on areas of improvement offer qualitative data to assess the program’s impact.
• Examining health and safety metrics, such as the frequency of medical emergencies and incidents during travel, provides quantifiable indicators of the program’s success in mitigating risks.
• Assessing the impact of travel support on business outcomes, including successful completion of projects, client satisfaction, and meeting objectives during business trips, directly ties the program’s efficacy to organizational success.

Global trends and industry adoption:

• Known for frequent client engagements and global projects, often prioritize travel support to ensure the well-being of their mobile workforce.
• Business development often requires extensive travel. Companies commonly provide travel assistance as a standard employee benefit to support their on-the-go teams.
• Where international transactions and client relationships are commonplace, travel support is a common feature of employee benefits to address the unique challenges of global business travel.

In an interconnected world where business transcends borders, travel assistance emerges as a strategy for forward-thinking organizations. The tangible benefits in terms of risk mitigation, employee well-being, and business outcomes position travel assistance as a valuable investment in conventional employee perks. As industries and regions continue to prioritize the global mobility of their workforce, travel assistance plays a pivotal role in fostering a secure environment for successful business endeavors.

If you liked the article and are more interested in salary information, compensation and benefits packages, talent trends, and more… Check out our  salary platform  for free!

About Author

Maria viladrich farré.

Marketing Content Specialist. Maria is a communications enthusiast who is interested in international relations and NGOs. She spends her time exploring and learning about new cultures while being aware of current economic and social issues.

Is it beneficial to have a fitness center at work?

Average salary in Germany

• Average salaries (119)
• Benefits (57)
• Candidates (19)
• Compensation (131)
• Insights (11)
• Interview (15)
• Must reads (19)
• Talent market (194)
• Taxes and payrolls (36)

Related Posts

Benefits, a crucial aspect of compensation

Benefits as a form of remuneration

Work from home: a win-win for employers and employees

WE ARE ONE TRAVELERS AID working together...

...to reunite families and distressed travelers

...to alleviate hunger

...to end human trafficking

... to provide shelter for families in transition

...to assist travelers

A Helping Hand Along the Way

Travelers Aid International is an international network of social service agencies, airports and train stations representing a safety net to individuals of all abilities to connect with a support system or place.

TAI is committed to uplifting the human experience, using the skills and talents of a diverse group of volunteers and staff. Our programs share a combined passion and desire to create a culture of caring and support. We succeed when a family living on the streets gets a roof over their head, when a young woman escapes from a sex trafficking ring, when a hungry child can stop wondering where his or her next meal will come from, or when a traveler unable to navigate the airport alone receives a friendly guide. This ongoing challenge to seek a better life for those in need continues to motivate us — and we will always strive to be “A Helping Hand Along the Way.”

The Heart and Soul of TAI

Although Volunteer Appreciation Month and all the events celebrating it are behind us, the simple truth that can never be said often enough is — volunteers are the heart and soul of Travelers Aid International.

The mission, vision, and dream of TAI cannot happen without the support, hard work, and dedication of the volunteers who serve TAI and its member agencies. Their commitment to TAI, but more importantly to the millions of travelers they assist day in and day out 365 days a year is what continues to propel Travelers Aid International upward.

~Ever with thanks~

Our Mission and Vision

The Travelers Aid International mission is to aid people in transit who are in distress, through our direct services and through services provided by our member organizations.

Our History

Beginning in the 1880s, spurred in part by organizations like the YWCA, Travelers Aid programs were formed in major U.S. cities specifically to provide protection for women and girls traveling alone.

Peruse past issues of our Journeys newsletter, get up-to-date member and volunteer news, and stay tuned for details of our 2024 Annual Conference, coming up September 17-20 in Ontario, California, and learn about additional TAI updates.

Travelers Aid in the News…

Travelers Aid Highlighted in Bloomberg

Travelers Aid Gets ‘Helping Hand’ Shout-out

Travelers Aid Airport Programs Director Shares Passion for Volunteer Programs

Beginning in the 1880s, spurred in part by organizations like the YWCA, Travelers Aid programs were formed in major U.S. cities specifically to provide protection for women and girls who traveled alone.

Peruse the most recent issues of our Journeys newsletter, get up-to-date member and volunteer news, see details as soon as they become available about our 2021 annual conference, set for May 12-14 at the TWA Hotel at New York’s JFK Airport, and learn about any COVID-19 updates.

Join Our Mailing List!

• Name * Name
• Phone Phone

Newsletter Sign Up

The “Travelers Aid” logo is a registered trademark of Travelers Aid International, Inc. 2024. All rights reserved.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Cookie and Privacy Settings

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.

If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance (+ What to Tip)

D epending on mobility and specific requirements, getting wheelchair assistance at the airport can suit a variety of needs and desired levels of assistance – but the process can still feel overwhelming. To help you and/or your travel companion navigate the airport with a wheelchair, we've put together a comprehensive guide that includes the types of help you can request, how much to tip and more.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Wheelchair Airport Assistance

Preparing for the trip

When you or a loved one is traveling in a wheelchair, advance planning is key for a smoother trip. If possible, look for nonstop flights, as changing planes will add additional transfer needs. Once you've selected the airline you'll be flying with, be sure to check its specific guidelines for travelers with wheelchairs. When you book your flight, select the wheelchair assistance option to notify the airline of your needs.

"Plan in advance. I know, that seems so simple, but it is one of the best things wheelchair users can do for air travel," says Alvaro Silberstein, founder and CEO of Wheel the World . He adds that most airlines have a section on the website when booking where you can detail your accessibility needs for your flight.

Contact the airline and airports directly

"Contact your airline in advance to inform them about your needs; they are legally obligated to provide necessary assistance," says James Thai from luxury travel company Exotic Voyages . The U.S. Department of Transportation enforces the Air Carrier Access Act, which makes it illegal for airlines to discriminate against passengers with disabilities and requires airlines to assist travelers who need it.

Debra Kerper, an accessible travel specialist at Debra Kerper Travel who has traveled to more than 30 countries in her wheelchair, also emphasizes the importance of speaking directly with an airline representative to detail your needs. "After reservations are made, call the special services desk at the airline," Kerper says. This is where travelers needing wheelchair assistance should tell the airline about their needs, including if you will be traveling with any type of equipment.

If your device uses batteries: "Tell the airline what kind and voltage, measurements and weight of the device as well as make and model," Kerper adds. She also advises that at this point travelers request seats and share any other specific needs, such as an aisle seat or a seat close to the plane bathroom.

Keep in mind that it is especially important to communicate with the airline you're flying if you go through a third-party site or app to book your flight. "If I buy it through the airline or make whatever arrangements, they'll have someone who will walk me from gate to gate. But if I buy it through an app like Hopper or something, it doesn't always get the message through that I'm ADA," says Darcy Malangowi, 47, who travels from Corpus Christi, Texas, to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, on a semi-frequent basis.

For those who purchase through a third-party travel app such as Hopper, you will have to go into your profile while booking to indicate that you'll need assistance and specify the type of help you will need. According to Hopper, you won't be able to add your assistance needs once your booking is already completed, so in that case you will have to contact the app's support team to request assistance. Either way, it's best to contact the airline directly as well to ensure your needs will be met.

After your air arrangements are complete, reach out to the departure and arrival airports to get details on accessible drop-off, pickup and parking locations. In addition to getting airport and airline specifics, familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration's guidelines for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions.

Know how much to tip

While there is no cost associated with wheelchair assistance at the airport, it is recommended that you tip. The suggested tip amount ranges from $5 to $10, but you can always increase the amount if the service is exceptional.

How to request wheelchair assistance by airline

Click on the links below to read more about the assistance policies for the following airlines for travelers with disabilities.

Types of airport wheelchair assistance

Whether you are wheelchair-reliant or you need to request wheelchair assistance due to mobility constraints while at the airport, passengers have rights and options.

• Through the airport: If you need wheelchair assistance and won't have your own wheelchair once you arrive at the airport but can walk onto the plane on your own, let the airline know. When you arrive at the accessible entrance, an attendant with a wheelchair will meet you to take you to check-in, through security and to your gate. Similarly, when you arrive at your destination, you can get wheelchair assistance to the baggage claim and pickup areas.
• Airplane boarding: Notify your airline if you will need assistance boarding the aircraft. The staff will need to arrange an aisle chair that can safely transport you from the gate onto the aircraft and into your seat. You should also clarify if you'll have your own wheelchair or mobility device, and if this will need to be checked prior to boarding the aircraft, as this will need to be arranged with the airline.

Arriving at the airport

You should arrive at the airport as early as possible to check in and have enough time for the security screening. It is recommended that travelers who have a battery-operated wheelchair and need assistance get to the airport at least an hour before the standard airline check-in time.

"Arrive two to three hours early to minimize stress," Kerper recommends. She also adds, based on her personal experience, "I believe in self-identification even though the airlines are not allowed to ask what your disability is. As a bilateral below-knee amputee, I feel that explaining my situation makes my experience easier for me and for the crew."

If you are driving and parking at the airport (or you're traveling with a companion who is), most major airfields provide wheelchair-accessible shuttle buses from the parking area. You'll have to check with the airport for more information.

Security screening

Contact tsa cares.

To help streamline security screening, TSA recommends that passengers contact the TSA Cares helpline at least 72 hours before departure via phone at 855-787-2227 or through its online form.

Established in 2012, TSA Cares provides information to passengers with disabilities on what to expect during security screenings and will share travelers' information with TSA agents before arriving at security. The service does not provide expedited security screening. Travelers will still need to sign up for TSA Precheck to go through security quicker.

In 2022, the helpline aided about 46,000 travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and special needs. TSA Cares is available for travelers Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. EST; on the weekends and holidays, its hours run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.

Security vetting options

Once a traveler makes it to security, they will have several vetting options to choose from: advanced imaging technology, a metal detector or a pat-down.

If a passenger can stand with their arms above their head for five to seven seconds, they will be directed to go through the advanced imaging screening. If this technology is not available at a particular security checkpoint, walking through a metal detector is another option. For those who cannot stand or walk through a metal detector, TSA agents will conduct a pat-down. Pat-downs can occur while travelers sit in their mobility devices. You always have the option to request that a pat-down be conducted privately if you prefer.

Keep in mind that wheelchairs and other mobility devices such as scooters will have to be examined as well, either by a TSA officer or through the X-ray machine.

What to expect before boarding

Once you're through security, you'll want to make your way to the gate area. If you're being escorted by airport personnel, they will bring you to your gate.

Here are a few things to consider doing before you board your flight:

• Stop at a bathroom to use the facilities before you arrive at your departure gate.
• If you're traveling with a service animal, find a pet relief area for your dog.
• Get any snacks or food prior to arriving at gate.

Once at your gate, notify the gate attendant you have arrived and provide detailed information on the assistance you may need. Any equipment such as a wheelchair, walker, motorized scooter or mobility device will need to be gate-checked. If you need to be transported onto the aircraft, an agent will pick you up at the gate in a small wheelchair called an aisle chair to bring you onto the plane and get you into your seat.

If you will need medications or any special items during your flight, remember to keep those in your personal item to carry on to the flight.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Storing mobility devices in cargo

Travelers should note that airlines are required to only transport manual wheelchairs into the plane's cabin. Battery-powered wheelchairs are usually stored in the cargo area of the plane, as they're too large to be safely stowed in the cabin. If your chair has to be stored in the cargo area of the plane, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Regulations for battery-powered chairs

Most importantly, the Federal Aviation Administration has strict rules when it comes to battery-operated wheelchairs, so be sure to consult those regulations before flying.

Spillable batteries are allowed in wheelchairs and other mobility devices. If the battery is protected from spilling and meets other FAA standards, it can remain attached to the device in the cargo compartment.

If a device does not have protection for the battery, the battery will have to be removed and stored in a traveler's carry-on bag . Passengers will have to notify the airline where that battery is located as well. Note that non-rechargeable lithium batteries are not allowed onboard.

Tips for gate-checking your chair

Despite having procedures in place to handle wheelchairs and other mobility devices, airlines still continue to have high rates of mishandling travelers' wheelchairs. In 2022, the DOT reported more than 11,300 wheelchairs and scooters were mishandled; that number is up from the roughly 7,200 wheelchairs and scooters that the DOT reported to be mishandled in 2021.

Here are some tips for checking your wheelchair:

• Get a tracker: Kristin Secor, author and owner of the wheelchair-accessible travel blog World on Wheels, suggests travelers attach a tracking device such as an AirTag to their wheelchair before checking it. "This can be a fantastic tool in the event that the airline misplaces your chair," she says.
• Prepare your wheelchair to be checked: "Always gate-check your wheelchair and remove any loose parts or items that stick out and are more prone to damage (i.e., joysticks, cushions, headrests and foot plates)," Secor advises.
• Give the airline instructions: Another rule of thumb is to write instructions down for airline staff on how your chair should be handled.

What to do if your chair is mishandled

Per the ACAA, if an airline loses, damages or destroys a wheelchair or other assistive device, the airline must pay for the damages up to the original price of the chair or apparatus. If you notice damage to your device – whether it's to the armrest, seat cushion or anything else – report it immediately to the airline's baggage claim once you reach your destination.

If the airline refuses to take responsibility for a damaged device, travelers can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Boarding and seating

By law, airlines must offer preboarding to disabled travelers. Travelers can also make this request when booking a flight.

When it comes to seating, most airlines have designated seats with certain disability accommodations. To ensure you're seated in a comfortable and accessible seat, travelers should either select a seat at the time of booking or notify the airline as soon as possible if using a third-party booking site to accommodate any needs.

If the airline doesn't allow advance seat assignments, communicating with the airline and requesting early boarding to accommodate your disability should allow you to pick a seat that meets your needs.

Using the plane bathroom

"In a plane, I just use the top of my seats as my crutches or whatever just to hop to get there," says Malangowi about using the restroom while flying.

For wheelchair passengers, this is the reality some experience while flying. It's also one of the reasons many are discouraged to travel.

Do your research before traveling. Once you book your flight, learn more about the plane and its layout before you depart. Seatguru , a website where you can view plane configurations by route or flight number, can be a helpful tool to research the plane, seats and bathroom locations on board. To avoid any issues during the flight, some disabled travelers will use the airport restroom before boarding, wear incontinence briefs, or use catheters or other similar devices.

Be sure to ask the airline staff if the plane you'll be flying on has an accessible bathroom. Under the ACAA, most wide-body aircraft with more than one aisle are required to include at least one accessible bathroom. The bathroom must be able to allow disabled passengers to enter, maneuver and leave the facility. Facilities must include door locks, call buttons, grab bars, sinks and dispensers that travelers with disabilities will be able to access.

Keep in mind, though, that currently the rule does not apply to certain older planes or smaller aircraft with only a single aisle. An amendment to the ACAA aims to change the standard for new single-aisle planes beginning in 2033, but as of now they are not required to have an accessible bathroom.

If you do need to use the bathroom during your flight, let the attendant know. The attendant will transfer you to an aisle chair and push you to the bathroom – but you will have to transfer yourself to the toilet and be able to take care of your own needs while in the facility.

Reaching your connecting or arrival destination

By law, airlines are required to help when deplaning. Wheelchair travelers are the last to exit the plane. Notify the airline at booking if you need assistance to debark the aircraft.

If you are connecting to another flight, make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get to your gate.

If you have reached your final destination, the airline staff will help you deplane and take you to baggage claim. Once you have your luggage and chair, check for damage before leaving the airport. If you notice any damage, be sure to report it as soon as possible.

You'll likely also want to prearrange your means of transportation at the arrival destination once you have your itinerary planned, so everything can go as smoothly as possible when you arrive.

The future of accessible travel

Addressing mobility aid mishandling.

Legislation is in the works to improve accountability in accessible travel. In May 2023, Congress introduced the bipartisan Mobility Aids on Board Improve Lives and Empower All Act. If passed, the bill would require:

• The DOT to evaluate the frequency and types of damage to wheelchairs and mobility devices during air travel.
• Airline carriers to provide information on procedures to safely transport mobility devices on planes.

"As a frequent flyer whose wheelchair is regularly broken or damaged, I understand firsthand how deeply frustrating it is that our aviation system still fails to make sure every passenger with a disability is treated with dignity and respect," said Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, co-sponsor of the MOBILE Act and chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation.

Rethinking plane seats

Although airlines try to make those wheelchair travelers as comfortable as possible on the plane, the ideal situation for many of these travelers would be to remain in their wheelchair rather than being transferred to a seat that may become uncomfortable for them. The MOBILE Act would also require the DOT to research ways to let wheelchair-bound travelers remain in their chairs rather than be transferred to a regular seat.

Last year, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg vowed to create a new rule that would allow passengers to remain in their personal wheelchairs. "We know that this won't happen overnight, but it is a goal that we have to work to fulfill," said Buttigieg in a video posted by the Paralyzed Veterans of America in July 2022. He reiterated this sentiment in a roundtable discussion hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris for the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act in July 2023.

While an official rule has yet to be announced, one airline has taken the step to improve air travel for wheelchair users: In June 2023 at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, Delta shared a new seat design prototype that would cater to wheelchair travelers. The seat would allow passengers who use power wheelchairs to remain in their chairs during their flights. The seat would also come with a headrest, tray table and cocktail table. This new prototype will need to be certified and go through testing before approval and implementation.

"This patented design offers new possibilities for customers with disabilities to enjoy a travel experience they truly deserve," Rick Salanitri, president of Delta Flight Products, said in a statement.

Requiring more accessible bathrooms

In July, the DOT announced an amendment to the ACAA requiring new single-aisle planes to have an accessible bathroom beginning in 2033. Bathrooms must be designed to include grab bars, accessible locks and call buttons, and sinks that are within reach for disabled travelers. (Twin-aisle, wide-body planes for longer-haul flights are already required to have accessible lavatories.)

"We are proud to announce this rule that will make airplane bathrooms larger and more accessible, ensuring travelers in wheelchairs are afforded the same access and dignity as the rest of the traveling public," Buttigieg said in a statement announcing the amendment.

Travelers will have to wait until 2033 to see the rule apply to newly built planes. Existing planes, however, will only have to comply with this new law if the aircraft is going through an interior renovation.

FAQ Module : FAQs - Travel - Wheelchair Airport Assistance

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Suzanne Mason is a travel editor with a love of warm vacation destinations and a passion for learning about whatever port of call she travels to. She has had family members who needed various levels of assistance at the airport, so she understands the importance of planning ahead to ease any travel anxiety her loved ones may experience and make them as comfortable as possible at the same time. Mason used her personal experience along with research expertise to write this piece.

Rachael Hood is a travel enthusiast who believes travel should be accessible for all. Since traveling over the years with multiple family members needing various levels of assistance, she's discovered there's a lot to learn and plan before departure. Hood used her personal experience along with research expertise to write this piece.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Neck Pillows for Travel
• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report