UK airports are required by law to provide free assistance to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. Knowing what is available — and how to request it — can make a significant difference to your journey.
Requesting assistance
The most important step is to request assistance when you book your flight, not when you arrive at the airport. Airlines and travel agents are required to pass this information to the airport, which will arrange the appropriate support. You can also contact the airport directly. The earlier you notify them, the better prepared they will be. Assistance is provided free of charge — you cannot be charged for a wheelchair, buggy, or escort service.
Reduced mobility assistance
Passengers with reduced mobility can request a wheelchair or electric buggy from check-in through to the aircraft door, and from the aircraft door through to the arrivals hall on return. At larger airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick, dedicated assistance teams operate around the clock. You will typically be met at check-in and escorted through security (using a priority lane), to the gate, and onto the aircraft. On arrival, assistance staff will meet you at the aircraft door.
Hidden disabilities: the sunflower lanyard
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme is now recognised at all major UK airports. Wearing a sunflower lanyard signals to airport staff that you may need additional time, patience, or support — without having to explain your condition. Lanyards are available free of charge from most airport information desks and some airline check-in desks. Staff are trained to look out for the lanyard and offer proactive assistance. The scheme covers conditions including autism, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and hearing or visual impairments.
Security and medical equipment
Passengers with medical implants such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, or joint replacements should inform security staff before going through the scanner. You may be directed to an alternative screening method. Medication, including liquid medication over 100ml, is exempt from the standard liquids rule but must be declared and may need to be accompanied by a prescription or doctor's letter. Mobility aids, prosthetics, and medical equipment are screened separately and will be returned to you immediately.
Airport facilities
All major UK airports have accessible toilets throughout the terminal, including Changing Places facilities — larger accessible toilets with a height-adjustable changing bench and hoist — at Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh, and several others. Quiet rooms or sensory rooms are available at a growing number of airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh. These provide a calm space away from the noise and crowds of the main terminal. Check the airport's website for exact locations before you travel.
Practical tips
Always request assistance at the time of booking, not on the day. Arrive earlier than the standard recommendation — assistance teams are busy and early arrival gives them time to arrange everything properly. If you are travelling with a carer or companion, let the airline know — they may be able to seat you together without charge. If your assistance is not provided as requested, speak to the airport's passenger assistance desk immediately. You have the right to make a complaint to the Civil Aviation Authority if assistance is inadequate.