How to Request Ryanair special assistance | Full Travel Help

When flying with Ryanair, passengers who require special assistance deserve a seamless and dignified experience from booking to arrival. At Ryanair, we are committed to ensuring that all passengers—regardless of mobility, medical conditions, or cognitive impairments—receive professional support every step of the way. In this comprehensive guide, we explain all aspects of Ryanair special assistance, ensuring you have the information needed to plan your journey with confidence.

Booking Ryanair Special Assistance Services

The process of booking Ryanair special assistance begins at the time of reservation. We advise all passengers who require additional support to notify us as early as possible—ideally during the booking process or at least 48 hours prior to departure.

You can request assistance directly through the Ryanair website by selecting the appropriate options under the Special Assistance section. You may also reach out to our customer service team via phone for a more personalized booking experience. Airports and onboard teams are better prepared when assistance needs are confirmed in advance, ensuring timely, efficient support.

Types of Special Assistance Available with Ryanair

Ryanair special assistance includes a range of services designed to cater to specific passenger needs. Below are the most frequently requested types of support:

1. Assistance for Reduced Mobility

For passengers with limited mobility, Ryanair provides:

• Wheelchair assistance from the check-in desk to the aircraft

• Lift-on/lift-off service for those unable to use stairs

• Priority boarding and dedicated staff at the airport

Wheelchair users must indicate whether they are traveling with their own wheelchair and whether it is manual or battery-operated. Note that Ryanair allows two mobility items per passenger free of charge.

2. Visual and Hearing Impairments

Passengers with vision or hearing impairments can request:

• Assistance navigating the airport

• Priority boarding and seating near cabin crew

• Safety briefings tailored to the passenger’s needs

• Access to service dogs in the cabin, provided appropriate documentation is presented

3. Cognitive and Developmental Assistance

For individuals who need help due to cognitive, developmental, or emotional conditions, Ryanair offers:

• Escort through the airport

• Help with boarding and disembarking

• Coordination with airport staff for a stress-reducing travel experience

Passengers are encouraged to provide details of their specific needs to allow for tailored service.

Medical Equipment and Conditions

If you require medical equipment such as oxygen cylinders or need to travel with medications that must be kept cold or require specific handling, Ryanair must be informed during booking. A "Fit to Fly" form might be needed for certain medical conditions, and it's crucial to consult your physician and the airline in advance.

Examples of permitted medical items:

• Portable oxygen concentrators (pre-approved models only)

• CPAP machines

• Insulin and syringes (with accompanying medical certificate)

Bringing an Assistance Dog on Board

Ryanair permits assistance dogs in the cabin on flights within the EU and EEA. The dog must be trained and certified by a recognized organization and wear a harness and identification. Documentation and advance notice are required to ensure compliance with airline and airport regulations.

Things to remember:

• Passengers with assistance dogs will receive priority seating

• The dog must remain on the floor at the passenger’s feet throughout the flight

• All health documentation and EU Pet Passport must be submitted in advance

Arrival and Disembarkation Support

Upon landing, passengers who have arranged for Ryanair special assistance are among the first to disembark. Dedicated staff will escort the passenger through immigration, baggage claim, and to the terminal exit or connecting transportation. Passengers are encouraged to remain seated until assistance arrives, as rushing to exit may delay the process.

Important Tips for a Smooth Experience

To ensure everything goes smoothly, we recommend the following:

• Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure

• Go directly to the Special Assistance Desk to confirm your service

• Clearly label any medical or mobility equipment

• Carry all essential medical documentation

• If you're traveling alone and require constant support, consider bringing a travel companion

Passengers who need more than basic help (e.g., with feeding, toileting, or understanding safety instructions) must be accompanied by a capable adult. Our crew can offer physical and logistical assistance, but are not trained for personal or medical care.

Special Assistance at Major Airports

Ryanair operates at hundreds of airports, and each location has a dedicated special assistance team. Most large European airports are equipped with:

• Special Assistance meeting points

• Trained personnel and accessible transport

• Wheelchair-friendly toilets and boarding bridges

Airports such as London Stansted, Dublin, Madrid, and Berlin Brandenburg have streamlined assistance services for Ryanair passengers. Upon arrival, staff will accompany you throughout your journey within the terminal.

Ryanair Special Assistance: Customer Service and Complaints

In the unlikely event that your Ryanair special assistance experience does not meet your expectations, we encourage you to submit a detailed complaint through our official customer service portal. Include your flight details, the nature of the issue, and any relevant documentation or photographs.

Our team takes every concern seriously and uses it to improve future services. Compensation or apologies may be extended in line with EU Regulation 1107/2006 concerning disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when traveling by air.

Conclusion

At Ryanair, we believe every journey should be comfortable, safe, and accessible to all. Our special assistance services are designed to support passengers with reduced mobility, medical needs, sensory impairments, and other unique requirements. We strive to provide tailored support at every touchpoint, from booking to arrival, so that every passenger can travel with dignity and peace of mind.

For travelers planning a trip, early coordination with our team ensures you receive the support needed for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler with specific needs, Ryanair special assistance ensures no one is left behind.