Travel preparations for elderly passengers
It is very important to us that you feel at ease when you fly with Lufthansa. Our aircraft and most airports have long since been equipped for making the journey simple and straightforward for elderly passengers too. And should problems arise, Lufthansa Services will always be happy to help.
It is particularly important for elderly passengers to prepare for their journey as thoroughly as possible. The first step is to seek advice from your travel agent or holiday company. You should ensure that you have plenty of transfer time between flights (if applicable) and you should also ask how far you will have to walk at the airport/s to get to your gate.
Reserving your seat in good time is also very important. You should do this as soon as possible after booking your flight, so that you can be sure of a seat which is well positioned and easy to get to. If possible you should also have all the documentation you need for your return journey before you start your trip.
Equally important is arriving at the airport in good time. We recommend that elderly passengers arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to allow themselves sufficient time to check in and get to their gate. This makes the journey less stressful and leaves time for you to walk extra distance if, for example, there is a gate change.
If you suffer from limited mobility, such as difficulty walking, visual impairment or specific illnesses, our Care Service is at your disposal. You will find all the information you need about this on our website under Travelers with special needs.
Professional care for those with limited mobility
If you suffer from limited mobility, our Care Service is on hand to ensure you too can travel without worrying. With this assistance you can be well cared for on your journey, even if you are no longer as steady on your feet or cannot see as well as you used to. With the Care Service, problems such as long and tiring walks through the airport and looking for the right gate can be easily overcome. This free service should be booked at least 48 hours before departure. To book, please contact your travel agent or a Lufthansa Service Centre. If you are suffering from an acute illness or injury, you will require a medical fitness to fly certificate from Lufthansa. To obtain this, please call the Lufthansa Medical Operation Centre on +49 (0)69 - 696 5579.
The Care Service starts as soon as you check in. At Frankfurt and Munich airports there is a dedicated ‘special needs’ check-in counter for this and a specially equipped care lounge which is available to elderly passengers with limited mobility and a companion. You will then be accompanied to the aircraft if necessary and even to your seat if required. A wheelchair can also be made available if necessary to help you cope with longer distances to the gate.
If need be you will met at your destination airport by another carer. And in the case of transit flights, elderly passengers with limited mobility will, of course, also be looked after in the transit area.
Relevant information for passengers with limited mobility, wheelchair users, passengers who are visually impaired or blind (with guide dogs) and those with other health-related conditions can be found under the heading Travelers with special needs.
Lufthansa Guide Service
Apart from our free support service for passengers with limited mobility, you may also book our Lufthansa Guide Service or Lufthansa Family Service if you would like some help finding your way around the airport. Please note that there is a charge for both these services. The Lufthansa Guides are available at Frankfurt and Munich airports, in particular for passengers from overseas who are boarding or changing flights. Guides are available in more than 50 languages to help you find your way around or to accompany you. We are also happy to help families with children or elderly family members.
These chargeable services are only available to Lufthansa passengers and can be booked very easily via the Lufthansa sales office or by calling the Lufthansa Service Centre.
For further information on prices and to book the Lufthansa Guide Service or the Lufthansa Family Service please click here.
Book care services in good time
To ensure you receive the best care before, during and after your journey, please book the service as early as possible. Our Care Service is free of charge.
Please tell us when you book your flight whether you would like to use the Care Service. If you book your flight online, please then contact our Lufthansa Service Center to register for the assistance you require.
Check up before you check in!
If you are in any doubt, please check with your doctor before your intended journey whether it is safe for you to travel with your medical condition.
Lufthansa’s checklist for elderly passengers
We have put together a checklist for you which includes all the important questions. Please check for yourself which points are relevant to you personally.
To the checklist for elderly passengers
