A Helpful Guide to EasyJet Special Assistance for Autistic Travellers

Travelling with autism can be challenging, especially with busy airports and crowded flights. Luckily, EasyJet offers special assistance to make your journey smoother and less stressful.

From getting help at the airport to ensuring you’re comfortable on the plane, EasyJet’s team is ready to support you. Here’s what you need to know about these services.

What Is EasyJet Special Assistance?

EasyJet’s special assistance is designed to help passengers with disabilities, including autism and other hidden conditions, travel comfortably. They offer help with things like mobility aids, medical equipment, and assistance dogs.

To get everything set up for your journey, it’s best to request assistance at least 48 hours before your flight. You can call the special assistance team at 0800 998 1130 (free from UK mobiles and landlines) or fill out the assistance request form on the EasyJet website.

How to Request Special Assistance with EasyJet

You can request assistance when you book your flight or afterwards by contacting EasyJet online or by phone. It’s best to arrange this as early as possible to ensure you get the help you need. If you’re already at the airport and haven’t sorted assistance yet, just head to the special assistance desk. They can help you on the spot, though it might take a bit longer if not pre-arranged.

How to Request Assistance	Details
Phone	Call 0800 998 1130 (free from UK landlines).
Online	Fill out the request form on EasyJet’s website.
At the Airport	Visit the special assistance desk.

Non-Visible Disabilities and Sunflower Lanyards

If you have a non-visible disability like autism, a Sunflower lanyard is a simple way to let staff know you might need some extra support. These lanyards are available at all UK airports from the special assistance or reception areas. You can also buy one in advance from Hidden Disabilities Website. Wearing the lanyard lets staff know you might need more time, space, or help as you get around the airport.

Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

If you have reduced mobility and need help with walking, boarding, or using a wheelchair, EasyJet’s special assistance service is there for you. They offer wheelchair assistance and can carry mobility aids at no extra charge. Just let them know your needs in advance whether it’s help getting through the airport, boarding the plane, or using specific equipment.

Travelling with Assistance Dogs

Travelling with an assistance dog? EasyJet allows them in the cabin on most routes, as long as they’re registered with an accredited organisation. Make sure to notify EasyJet when you book or at least 48 hours before your flight. The airline will arrange seating to ensure there’s enough space for your assistance dog.

Travelling with Assistance Dogs	Details
Allowed on Most Routes	Dogs must be registered with an accredited organisation.
Notify in Advance	Contact EasyJet at least 48 hours before the flight.
Seating Arrangements	EasyJet will arrange space for your dog.

Booking Assistance and Contact Information

To book assistance, you can call EasyJet’s special assistance team at 0800 998 1130, use the request form on their website, or visit the special assistance desk at the airport. For any other questions about air travel, including accessible toilets or seating information, EasyJet’s team is available to help both online and in person.

Handling Delays and Disruptions

Delays and disruptions like flight delays or cancellations can be stressful, especially when you’re travelling with autism. EasyJet offers priority support during these times, and their ground crew can assist with rebooking flights or finding other solutions.

Keeping an eye on updates via the EasyJet app or website can be helpful, and airport staff are always on hand to assist if needed. If there are long delays, there might be special assistance areas available that are quieter and less crowded, so it’s worth asking about these spaces at the special assistance desk.

Overall

Travelling with autism doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With some planning and the right support from EasyJet’s special assistance services, your journey can be a lot more enjoyable. EasyJet is committed to making travel accessible for all passengers, including those with hidden disabilities, and ensuring you get the help you need from check-in to landing.

FAQs

How do I add special assistance with EasyJet?

You can add special assistance when booking your flight or afterwards by contacting the special assistance team. Call them at 0800 998 1130 (free from UK mobiles and landlines) or fill out the request form on EasyJet’s website. It’s recommended to arrange assistance at least 48 hours before your flight to make sure everything is in place.

Who qualifies for special assistance at the airport?

Special assistance is available for anyone with a disability or condition that affects their ability to travel independently, including autism, reduced mobility, and those travelling with assistance dogs. Hidden disabilities like autism can also be indicated by wearing a Sunflower lanyard, which signals that you might need extra support.

Where is the special assistance desk at Gatwick airport?

At Gatwick Airport, the special assistance reception areas are located in the drop-off zones of both the North and South terminals. These areas provide help getting into the terminal and through check-in if needed. If the desk isn’t staffed, there will be a phone available to speak to a staff member who can arrange assistance.

Can you skip queues with a Sunflower lanyard?

Wearing a Sunflower lanyard doesn’t automatically let you skip queues, but it does signal to airport staff that you may need extra support, like assistance during security checks or boarding. Staff are generally accommodating and will help make the process smoother for you.

What support does EasyJet offer for autistic travellers?

EasyJet offers various support options for autistic travellers, including assistance with boarding, seating arrangements, and help getting around the airport. You can also request a Sunflower lanyard, which discreetly signals to staff that you have a hidden disability and might need extra time or assistance.

How early should I arrive at the airport if I need special assistance?

If you’ve requested special assistance, it’s best to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight. This allows plenty of time to check in, get through security, and board with the help of the special assistance team. Arriving early can help reduce stress and ensure you have enough time for everything.

Can I bring medical equipment on an EasyJet flight?

Yes, EasyJet allows passengers to bring necessary medical equipment on board, such as oxygen tanks or mobility aids. It’s important to inform the special assistance team about your equipment needs when booking or by calling 0800 998 1130. There’s no extra charge for carrying medical equipment, but advance notice helps to ensure everything is prepared.

How do I travel with an assistance dog on EasyJet?

To travel with an assistance dog on EasyJet, you must notify the airline when booking or at least 48 hours before your flight. Assistance dogs must be registered with an accredited organisation. EasyJet will help arrange appropriate seating to ensure there’s enough space for your dog during the flight.

What should I do if my special assistance wasn’t arranged at booking?

If you didn’t arrange special assistance when booking your flight, you can still request it by calling EasyJet’s special assistance team at 0800 998 1130 or by visiting the special assistance desk at the airport. It’s best to do this as soon as possible to ensure you receive the support you need.

Can I get help with security checks if I have a hidden disability?

Yes, if you have a hidden disability such as autism, you can receive extra support during security checks. Wearing a Sunflower lanyard signals to staff that you might need additional assistance, such as a private screening or a quieter process. Just speak to the security staff or the special assistance team when you arrive at the airport to discuss your needs.