Are Private Jets Chartered by Travelers with Reduced Mobility
Private jet passengers with reduced mobility represent a growing population of travelers discovering the built-in conveniences of private jets for travel.
We speak frequently with reduced mobility travelers interested in switching from commercial airlines to flying private but have questions about logistics. Here are a few considerations for traveling with a wheelchair:
Are there advantages for an individual with reduced mobility to fly private instead of commercial?
Should I notify my charter coordinator ahead of time to make disability-related accommodations?
You are not required to provide advanced notice for disability-related accommodations, especially if it is an on-demand private charter flight. Your charter coordinator can help arrange for the following:
- A wheelchair or other guided assistance to board, deplane, or other arrangements during your flight;
- A seating accommodation that meets your disability-related needs and/or the loading and stowing of any assistive device;
- Seamless ground transportation to/from the airport.
Can I bring my wheelchair?
What if I cannot use the airplane stairs?
What if my private jet is not wheelchair accessible? Is there another option?
Yes. Another option is to use an ambulift. These special-purpose hydraulic vehicles have multiple uses, including catering aircraft. The technology has also been adapted to lift passengers in their wheelchairs who cannot climb stairs directly to the aircraft door.
Are ambulifts available at all airports?
No. Although ambulifts are common at major airports, smaller regional airports may not have one available. Your charter coordinator will work with you to determine your trip’s most efficient and stress-free logistics.
Is there an additional cost for the ambulift for travel outside the U.S.?
Yes. The cost can vary, depending on the country you are flying to and from. In the United States and most Western countries, there are rarely extra charges to accommodate disabled passengers. If you plan to travel outside the U.S., your charter coordinator will work with the provider to determine the cost.
Can I sit in a seat on the private jet?
Yes. It is a safety requirement that all passengers be seated in an aircraft seat with a fastened seatbelt during takeoff and landing. As safety is of primary importance, your wheelchair should be folded up and stowed properly during the flight. Exceptions to this are passengers being transported in an adapted medevac aircraft secured in a stretcher or a specially adapted wheelchair for use on a large, converted aircraft.
Can I stay seated in my wheelchair during the flight?
Choose Mercury Jets
Mercury Jets’ on-demand white glove charter coordinators can assist you in choosing your preferred aircraft. To book a flight, call +1-212-840-8000 for our charter department. Mercury Jets offers an instant quote request. Submit your request here to price out your flight immediately.