Special assistance on Air Canada

If you are not self-reliant and need help with things like eating, medication or the washroom, transferring to your seat, understanding safety instructions or evacuating, you must travel with a support person, and on Canada and US flights that person's base fare is free (taxes and fees still apply). Hawaii and Puerto Rico get a special rate through the Medical Assistance Desk instead of a free seat, as do other international routes. Book your own ticket first, then call to add the support person.

Air Canada checks both manual and powered mobility aids free of charge. A powered aid needs 48 hours notice and a mobility-aid form. Most aircraft also carry an onboard wheelchair so you can reach the washroom in flight.

On equipped aircraft Air Canada uses an aisle chair with a manual transfer by two or more trained staff, an optional transfer sling, or a mechanical Eagle Lift device. Crew do not lift a passenger on their own, so if you are told a flat we cannot help you, that is not the full picture, ask about the aisle chair, sling or Eagle Lift on your aircraft.

Air Canada is retiring its onboard Medipak oxygen service, so plan to bring your own approved portable oxygen concentrator, or rent one through a third party. You need 48 hours notice and medical approval, and your POC battery must last at least 1.5 times your total travel time, so carry enough charged batteries.

Air Canada carries trained service dogs, one per passenger, or two on flights to and from the US, with certification and 48 hours notice, and it still accepts emotional support dogs (dogs only) with 96 hours notice and three forms. Our pet guide covers the pet side; service and support animals are handled here, through Accessibility Services.

Wheelchair and mobility help, powered aids and oxygen all need at least 48 hours notice. The Medical Assistance and Accessibility Services desk handles these, and getting it on the record early is what prevents a problem at the airport.