November 1, 2025

Good news for passengers with disabilities! The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made a fresh rule to make air travel easier and friendlier for people with reduced mobility, called divyangjans in India. Now, when you book your ticket online, airlines have to show special codes called booking assistance codes or special service requests (SSRS). These codes include WCHR for wheelchair ramp, WCHS for wheelchair stair, WCHC for wheelchair cabin, BLND for visually challenged, and DEAF for hearing impaired. This means you can book your special help right when buying the ticket! The DGCA said this is to give “appropriate assistance to passengers with disabilities, medical conditions” just like in international airports. But that’s not all! Passengers need to inform the airline at least 48 hours in advance to get guaranteed help, but even in emergencies, airlines must try their best to assist. Passengers with special needs should reach the airport early and follow the time guidelines given by airlines to make the assistance smooth. The new rule also says the airline must help from the moment divyangjans arrive at the airport, all the way to the aircraft, and again from the aircraft to where they leave – without charging extra money. Got your own wheelchair? You can still use it! If it’s a non-battery wheelchair, you’re free to bring it. Battery-operated wheelchairs can be used too if they meet special safety rules accepted internationally. These wheelchairs need to move easily around airport areas and should be stored safely during the flight, ready to be given back right at the plane exit so the traveler can move directly to their wheelchair. While airlines usually provide wheelchairs as per bookings, airports also must keep extra wheelchairs handy for anyone who needs them. In simple words – the whole journey is designed to be comfortable and smooth for divyangjan passengers. Isn’t that a fantastic step towards making air travel friendly for everyone? Traveling by plane is about to get a whole lot easier for our specially-abled heroes!

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Tags: Dgca, Disability Assistance, Airlines, Special Service Requests, Wheelchair, Airport Travel,