Traveling can be a challenging experience for passengers with special needs, but Qatar Airways has taken considerable steps to make the process smoother, safer, and more inclusive. The Qatar Airways Special Assistance program is designed to provide additional support to passengers with reduced mobility, medical conditions, hearing or visual impairments, elderly travelers, expectant mothers, and those traveling with infants or unaccompanied minors. With a global reputation for customer service excellence, Qatar Airways ensures every passenger, regardless of their condition or circumstance, receives the dignity and care they deserve throughout their journey.
Qatar Airways Special Assistance encompasses a wide range of services aimed at helping passengers who may require extra help while traveling. These services include, but are not limited to:
Wheelchair assistance at all airport stages
Priority boarding and deplaning
Assistance for visually or hearing-impaired passengers
Medical support during travel (oxygen supply, stretchers, etc.)
Special meal requests for dietary or medical needs
Help for elderly passengers and expectant mothers
Support for unaccompanied minors
Provisions for service animals
These services are carefully coordinated to ensure safety, convenience, and comfort for passengers from the moment they book their ticket until they arrive at their destination.
Qatar Airways offers special assistance to various categories of travelers:
Each of these passenger types can request tailored assistance by contacting the airline at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
To ensure the best possible service, Qatar Airways recommends passengers submit their special assistance requests well in advance. The steps include:
Booking Phase: Indicate the need for special assistance during online booking or inform your travel agent.
Contact Customer Service: Call Qatar Airways directly or use their website to submit special requests.
Submit Documents: If medical assistance is needed (e.g., oxygen onboard, traveling with a medical condition), a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) must be submitted and approved.
Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation once your request is processed and approved.
Arrival at Airport: Arrive at least three hours before departure for a smoother experience with ground staff.
Passengers with mobility impairments can request wheelchair services at check-in, through security, and up to the aircraft door or seat. Qatar Airways provides:
Passengers are allowed to check in their personal wheelchairs or mobility devices free of charge. Foldable wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches are accepted as part of this service.
For passengers who are blind or have low vision, Qatar Airways provides the following:
Escort assistance at the airport
Braille safety cards (on selected aircraft)
Priority boarding
Inflight crew assistance
Passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing receive visual support through written communication and demonstration-based safety briefings. Cabin crew members are trained to offer help using visual aids, gestures, and written instructions when necessary.
If you’re traveling with medical equipment, Qatar Airways can provide inflight oxygen, space for devices, and other support—subject to pre-approval. Common medical requests include:
Supplemental oxygen (portable or airline-supplied)
Stretcher service for patients who cannot sit upright
Medical escorts (e.g., nurses or doctors accompanying passengers)
CPAP machine use (must meet onboard regulations)
Passengers must submit the MEDIF and receive clearance from Qatar Airways' medical team before traveling with these provisions.
Expectant mothers can travel comfortably with Qatar Airways, but certain guidelines apply:
Up to 28 weeks: No medical certificate is required.
29 to 32 weeks: A medical certificate confirming a healthy pregnancy and fitness to fly is required.
33 to 36 weeks (single pregnancy): May travel with a signed doctor’s certificate stating they are fit to fly.
Beyond 36 weeks or multiple pregnancies beyond 32 weeks: Travel is not permitted.
Pregnant travelers can also request priority boarding and additional seatbelt extensions onboard.
Senior citizens often need extra time or support while traveling, and Qatar Airways caters to this with:
Wheelchair assistance
Priority boarding
Help with carry-ons
Inflight assistance for comfort and hydration
The cabin crew is trained to be attentive to the unique needs of elderly passengers, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
Qatar Airways makes travel easy for families by offering the following:
Bassinets for infants under 24 months (must be requested in advance)
Baby meals, diapers, and toys for children
Stroller check-in at the gate
Early boarding for families
Parents can also request aisle seats or those closer to the lavatories for added convenience.
For children aged 5 to 15 traveling alone, Qatar Airways offers an Unaccompanied Minor Service that includes:
Airport check-in and transfer assistance
Cabin crew supervision
Escort to the receiving guardian upon arrival
This service must be booked in advance and incurs a small additional fee.
Passengers who rely on service dogs for medical or mobility reasons can bring them into the cabin free of charge. Key points include:
The animal must be certified as a trained service dog.
Documentation, including vaccination and training records, is required.
Prior notice is required at least 48 hours before departure.
Emotional support animals are not permitted unless they meet the requirements of Qatar Airways’ pet policy.
At Hamad International Airport (DOH), Qatar Airways' hub in Doha, passengers with special needs enjoy:
The airline ensures a seamless experience through every leg of the journey.
The program reflects the airline's commitment to inclusive, accessible, and compassionate air travel. Whether you’re traveling with a disability, a child, or a medical condition, the airline’s tailored services ensure that you are treated with care and dignity. By planning in advance and communicating your needs clearly, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey with one of the world's top-rated airlines. Qatar Airways continues to raise the bar in making air travel more accommodating for all.
Would you like a short meta description, blog summary, or FAQ section separately formatted?