Why is it essential to give advance notice before your flight?
You have the fundamental right to travel, even if you have reduced mobility: this is the principle under Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006, which prohibits all forms of discrimination and requires assistance to be provided free of charge. This includes wheelchair transfers, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and escort to the gate…
To enable Chalair to organise this assistance on its regional aircraft (ATR 42-500, ATR 72-500), you must inform the airline before departure by completing the PRM form. Please note: acceptance is subject to prior approval by the reservations department, particularly for safety reasons or depending on the type of aircraft.
What is on offer? Services available on the ground and on board
PRM assistance on the ground
From the moment you arrive at the airport, from the car park to the aircraft, an agent will accompany you in a wheelchair. At the boarding gate, an access ramp (or, if necessary, a motorised mini-stair) will be provided to assist you on board.
On board
Chalair operates 48-seat ATR 42s (and occasionally the smaller Beechcraft 1900): space remains limited. However, a dedicated member of the cabin crew will assist you to your seat: helping you to settle in, fastening your seatbelt and stowing your crutches in the overhead locker.
Guide dogs are permitted free of charge, unless otherwise stated for safety reasons (limited to one dog per flight).
In the event of a medical need or the use of an electric wheelchair
Folding wheelchairs are carried free of charge in addition to the standard baggage allowance for passengers with reduced mobility. For battery-powered wheelchairs, only dry batteries are accepted.
Lightweight medical equipment (crutches, prostheses) may be carried at no extra cost.
Cabin and ground staff are trained to meet the specific needs of passengers with reduced mobility: handling wheelchairs, safety on board, communication (for the hard of hearing, visually impaired, etc.).
Where and when should arrangements be made for passengers with reduced mobility?
- When booking your flight, tick the ‘PRM Assistance’ box and specify your requirements.
- Complete the PRM form and send it before departure.
- You will receive a confirmation or a request for further information.
In the event of technical constraints or issues relating to the aircraft’s configuration or airport access, the airline will contact you to propose an alternative solution or explain any refusal (which must be justified on the grounds of safety and current regulations).
How much does it cost? What is included and what is not
- Comprehensive PRM assistance (wheelchair on the ground, assistance on board, transfers, etc.) is free of charge, in accordance with European law for all flights within the EU.
- A folding wheelchair is carried outside the baggage allowance (free of charge for passengers with reduced mobility). If the wheelchair is non-folding or contains lithium batteries, please check with the airline depending on the type of aircraft.
- Guide dogs are accepted free of charge and are not counted towards the baggage allowance, but are limited to one passenger per flight and only if they are listed on the PRM form.
- Medical equipment permitted in the cabin must comply with the authorised dimensions and weight limits. In some cases, a medical certificate issued within the last 7 days may be required (e.g. recent plaster casts, respiratory failure requiring oxygen, etc.).
Exceptions, restrictions and safety conditions
An airline may refuse to carry a passenger with reduced mobility in the following cases (in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006):
- Where the passenger is unable to move or react independently in the event of an evacuation (referred to as WCHC in aviation terminology).
- If the passenger insists on travelling in a lying position, or with unauthorised oxygen equipment.
- In the event of behavioural issues or a situation where the journey would pose a risk to themselves or others.
Even where a medical need is reported at a late stage, the airline may refuse to carry a PRM passenger based on operational safety considerations at the time, but must do so by providing clear explanations, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006.
Travel advice
- Submit your PRM form as soon as the flight is booked; if possible, at least 72 hours in advance to avoid any complications.
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
- Use the airline’s app or website to check your check-in deadline.
- Have a recent medical certificate to hand if required to justify your needs (e.g. electric wheelchair).
- Keep digital copies of your PRM form, your ticket and any medical transport details, if required.
- Follow the safety rules on board.
By informing the airline, meeting deadlines and adopting a few good habits, your flight will remain a time of freedom, not frustration. You are capable and you have rights!