Oslo Airport, also known as Oslo Airport Gardermoen, provides special assistance for disabled passengers and people with reduced mobility. Special assistance at Oslo Airport can support travellers with physical, sensory, cognitive and hidden disabilities through different parts of the airport journey.

Families travelling with an autistic child can also request help when airport crowds, queues, communication or unfamiliar procedures create a substantial barrier. The service should be matched to the passenger’s individual needs rather than based only on whether they use a wheelchair.

This guide explains how to book special assistance at Oslo Airport, where support can begin, what happens at security and boarding, and how to prepare for a calmer journey.

For families planning a trip to Norway, I have a guide to visiting Norway with autistic children that can help you start planning.

Who Can Request Special Assistance At Oslo Airport?

Special assistance at Oslo Airport is available to passengers whose disability or reduced mobility means they need support to use the airport or board a flight. This can include travellers with:

• Limited walking ability or fatigue
• A manual or powered wheelchair
• Visual or hearing impairments
• Autism, ADHD or another cognitive disability
• A speech or communication disability
• Dementia or memory difficulties
• A medical condition that affects mobility or stamina
• An assistance dog
• Portable oxygen or other essential medical equipment

You don’t need to be a full-time wheelchair user to request assistance. Explain the practical help the passenger needs, including any difficulty with walking distances, standing in queues, understanding instructions or coping with crowded environments. You can read more about who can get help with special assistance at Oslo Airport on the Avinor website.

How To Book Special Assistance at Oslo Airport

Book assistance through the airline or travel agent, ideally when purchasing the flight. Avinor, which operates Oslo Airport, recommends requesting assistance at least 48 hours before departure. You can also make service requests via the PRM Assist app – but I would recommend always doing it with the airline directly too.

The airline sends the request to the airport assistance provider. Contact the airline again if your mobility, equipment or support needs change after booking.

Give specific information rather than simply asking for “special assistance”. Explain:

• How far the passenger can walk
• Whether they can use stairs
• Whether they can transfer into an aircraft seat
• Whether they need an airport wheelchair
• Whether their own wheelchair is manual or powered
• Whether help is needed with baggage
• Whether they need support through security and passport control
• Whether they have a visual, hearing, cognitive or communication disability
• Whether they are travelling with an assistance dog
• Whether they carry portable oxygen or medical equipment

Keep the booking confirmation or written record of the request. Check that the correct assistance code appears on the airline booking.

Contact the Team For Special Assistance at Oslo Airport

Phone:  + 47 64 82 19 00

Email:  assistanse.osl@iss.no

I have a guide that explains the type of assistance you can get at the airport – this can help you figure out what services are available so you know what to ask for. I have a guide dedicated to airport assistance for those with hidden disabilities with advice specific to those with invisible illness or disability.

What If Assistance Wasn’t Booked 48 Hours Ahead?

You can still request help when you arrive at Oslo Airport. However, Avinor warns that immediate assistance can’t be guaranteed without advance notice.

Arrive early and contact the airline or assistance service as soon as possible. Passengers with pre-booked assistance may be prioritised when the airport is busy.

When To Arrive At Oslo Airport

Avinor recommends arriving at least two hours before flights within Norway and the Schengen area, and at least two and a half hours before flights outside Schengen. It also recommends allowing an additional hour when check-in is required.

Your airline may set a different check-in or assistance meeting time. Follow the earliest time given by the airline, airport or assistance provider. Extra time can be particularly useful when checking in a powered wheelchair, carrying medical equipment or travelling with an autistic passenger who needs breaks between airport stages.

Where Does Special Assistance at Oslo Airport Begin?

Agree a meeting point for special assistance at Oslo Airport when arranging assistance. Avinor advises passengers to confirm where the assistance team should meet them so that support can begin safely and without unnecessary searching. Depending on the booking and how you reach the airport, assistance may begin at a designated call point, check-in area or another agreed location. Confirm the exact meeting point before travel and save it in writing.

Oslo Airport is large. Use the airport’s terminal map to identify the check-in area, security route, toilets and boarding gates before the journey. You can also use the Flush app to find toilets anywhere in the world.

What Special Assistance at Oslo Airport Can Include

The support provided depends on the passenger’s needs and flight. It may include:

• Meeting the passenger at an agreed point
• Providing an airport wheelchair
• Helping with check-in and baggage procedures
• Guiding the passenger through security
• Assistance through passport control where required
• Help reaching the departure gate
• Boarding support, including an ambulift or other equipment when necessary
• Help transferring to an aircraft seat where agreed
• Meeting an arriving passenger at the aircraft
• Assistance to baggage reclaim and an agreed exit point

Special assistance isn’t personal care. Staff are unlikely to be able to administer medication, help with eating, provide toileting assistance or lift a passenger in ways that aren’t covered by safe procedures. A companion may be necessary when the traveller needs this type of support.

Wheelchairs And Mobility Equipment

Tell the airline about any wheelchair, mobility scooter or other mobility equipment when booking. Provide accurate dimensions, weight and battery information.

For a powered wheelchair, include:

• The make and model
• Length, width and height
• Unoccupied weight
• Battery type
• How to isolate or disconnect the battery
• How to release the brakes
• Safe lifting points
• Whether any parts fold or detach

Attach clear handling instructions to the wheelchair and keep a copy with you. Remove detachable cushions, controls and other fragile parts when the airline permits, and take them into the cabin. Ask whether the passenger can remain in their own wheelchair until the aircraft door. The answer may depend on the aircraft, gate and operational conditions.

I have a guide dedicated to explaining more about travelling with a disability pushchair for families using one when they travel.

Security Screening With A Disability

Everyone must complete security screening. Avinor states that passengers using wheelchairs or with implants are screened manually when needed. Passengers with pacemakers or implanted nerve stimulators shouldn’t use the standard metal detector. Screening may instead involve a hand search or suitable security scanner.

You can request a security officer of the same gender for a manual search. Tell staff about pain, limited movement, medical devices or areas that shouldn’t be touched before screening begins.

Liquid medication and medically necessary items may be exempt from standard liquid limits, but they can require additional screening. Keep prescriptions, medical letters and original packaging available where practical.

Support For Autistic Passengers And Hidden Disabilities

Avinor confirms that passengers with invisible disabilities, including autism and ADHD, can request assistance. Support must be booked through the airline or travel agent no later than 48 hours before departure for the best chance of receiving the requested help. Oslo Airport website recommends that those with an invisible disability should have the DPNA code added to their booking.

Explain what creates the barrier and what staff can do to help. Useful requests may include:

• Clear, direct instructions
• Extra processing time
• Guidance between airport stages
• Help understanding changes
• Reduced waiting where operationally possible
• Keeping the family or support person together
• Warning before physical contact
• A calm explanation of security procedures

Assistance doesn’t guarantee queue-free travel or a quiet route. Build enough time into the journey for pauses and sensory regulation.

Preparing An Autistic Child For Oslo Airport

Oslo Airport can involve bright lighting, announcements, queues, security checks and long walks. Preparing each stage in advance can make the experience more predictable.

Useful preparation may include:

• A visual schedule showing the airport sequence
• Photographs of check-in, security, gates and aircraft boarding
• Noise-reducing headphones or ear defenders
• Familiar snacks, drinks and sensory items
• Comfortable clothing in layers
• A planned toilet visit before security and boarding
• A simple explanation of bag checks and body screening
• A backup plan for delays or a gate change

Travelling With An Assistance Dog

Tell the airline about an assistance dog when booking. Documentation, animal health and entry requirements depend on the route and destination.

Ask the airline where the dog will travel, what documents are required and where relief facilities are located. Allow extra time for document checks.

When travelling with an animal you may have the PETC code added to your booking. Learn more about airline SSR codes and what they mean before you travel.

Portable Oxygen And Medical Equipment

Passengers who need oxygen during the flight must contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure. Airline rules differ. Some permit approved personal oxygen equipment, while others require passengers to use equipment supplied by the airline.

Confirm rules for batteries, portable oxygen concentrators, syringes, EpiPens and liquid medication directly with the airline. Carry essential medication in hand luggage rather than checked baggage. It is helpful to have a doctors letter with you for travelling with medication.

Special Assistance When Arriving At Oslo Airport

For an arriving passenger, assistance can begin at the aircraft and continue through passport control, baggage reclaim and an agreed handover point.

Don’t leave the aircraft until assistance staff arrive unless cabin crew confirm another arrangement. Tell the crew if essential mobility equipment hasn’t been returned or appears damaged.

Check your wheelchair for damage or missing pieces before leaving the airport. Photograph any damage, report it immediately to the airline’s baggage service and keep all written documentation. Keep any luggage tags that were on your wheelchair or any bag it was inside of.

Accessible Transport From Oslo Airport

Oslo Airport is connected to Oslo and other destinations by airport express trains, regional trains, buses, taxis and private transfers. Airport assistance and onward transport assistance are separate arrangements.

Confirm whether assistance can continue to the railway station, bus stop, taxi rank or an agreed meeting point. Travellers who need to remain seated in their wheelchair should pre-book a suitable adapted vehicle rather than relying on a standard taxi.

Winter weather can affect pavements, ramps and transport services. Allow additional time and bring suitable protection for mobility equipment.

Practical Checklist Before Travel

FAQ About Special Assistance at Oslo Airport

Special assistance at Oslo Airport can make the journey more manageable when it is booked early and matched to the passenger’s actual needs. Confirm the meeting point, describe mobility and communication requirements clearly, and keep extra time for security, equipment handling and unexpected changes.

Continue Planning Your Europe Trip With Children

• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines
• Start with planning your overall Europe family trip, including flights, transport, pacing and choosing destinations that suit your child’s needs
• Looking for an easier first-time Europe destination? Consider visiting Denmark with kids for organised cities, reliable transport and family-friendly attractions
• Prefer beaches and slower-paced travel? Find out more about Greece with children for island stays, outdoor dining and flexible family days out
• Planning big city adventures? Discover what to expect in Paris with autistic children, including transport, attractions and sensory considerations

Continue Planning Your Travels With Autistic Kids

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Special Assistance At Oslo Airport: A Guide For Travellers appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Traveling with autistic children can be a rewarding experience when you choose the right destination. Oslo, the capital of Norway, is an excellent option for families seeking a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to accessibility, making it easier for families with autistic children to explore and enjoy. Here’s a guide to making the most of your visit to Oslo with autistic children.

Getting To Oslo With Autistic Children

Most people arrive to Oslo via Oslo Airport. When you arrive at Oslo Airport, look for the designated assistance points located throughout the terminal. I have a guide that explains more about special assistance at Oslo Airport. The airport staff are trained to support passengers with special needs, providing guidance and comfort from the moment you arrive.

Traveling from Oslo Airport (Gardermoen) to the city centre is straightforward, with several transport options available to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Airport Express Train (Flytoget): The Airport Express Train, known as Flytoget, is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Oslo city centre. The train departs every 10 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station (Oslo S). The trains are comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and ample space for luggage. Tickets can be purchased at the airport, online, or via the Flytoget app.
• NSB Regional Trains: NSB (Norwegian State Railways) also operates regional trains that connect Oslo Airport to the city centre. These trains are slightly slower than the Flytoget but are more affordable. The journey to Oslo Central Station takes about 23-25 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the station, online, or through the NSB app.
• Airport Bus (Flybussen): Flybussen is a convenient bus service that runs between Oslo Airport and various locations in the city, including Oslo Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses run frequently, and tickets can be purchased online, at the airport, or directly from the driver.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at Oslo Airport and offer a comfortable, door-to-door service to your destination in the city. The journey takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. It’s a more expensive option, but it can be convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with children. Be sure to use official taxi stands at the airport to avoid overcharging.
• Car Rental: For those who prefer to drive themselves, car rental services are available at Oslo Airport. Several major car rental companies have desks at the airport, and booking in advance is recommended. Driving into Oslo takes about 40-50 minutes, and this option offers flexibility if you plan to explore areas outside the city.
• Private Transfers: Private transfer services can be pre-booked to take you directly from the airport to your accommodation in Oslo. This option combines the comfort of a taxi with the convenience of having a driver waiting for you upon arrival. It’s a good choice for larger groups or those looking for a hassle-free experience. Book a private transfer with GetYourGuide here.

These transport options provide flexibility for travellers, allowing you to choose the best method based on your schedule, budget, and preferences when visiting Oslo with autistic children.

We visited Oslo with autistic children we opted to travel to the city with the Flytoget train because the train station is right there in the airport where you will exit. We bought tickets from a machine and went down to board the train by using the escalator. It was really easy and a member of staff guided us to the best cart for families that had plenty of space for our strollers.

Where to Stay in Oslo With Autistic Children

We found that Oslo was very walkable – so I think as long as the area you choose is safe then you won’t have a problem getting around. We chose to stay in the Gamle area, this was because our return flight was very early in the morning and I wanted it to be easy to get to the train station with tired kids. I planned to leave a link to the AirBnb we used, but I no longer see it on the AirBnb platform. An alternative in the area we were in is the Radisson Blu hotel.

Family-Friendly Activities in Oslo

Oslo is a disability-friendly city with numerous accommodations for travellers with disabilities. Many attractions, public transport options, and facilities are designed to be accessible. At museums and other cultural sites, you’ll often find staff who are understanding and accommodating of different needs, including sensory sensitivities that autistic children may have.

Vigeland Park

Oslo offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for exploring with children, including those with sensory sensitivities. One of the city’s highlights is Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. This expansive outdoor space features over 200 sculptures, providing plenty of room for children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The park’s natural surroundings and spacious layout create a calming environment, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed day out. You can book a tour with a local of the park.

Paradox Museum

I know – yet another illusion place we have visited, what a surprise! The Paradox Museum is exciting and interactive, which is really great for children on the spectrum. You can learn how the optical illusion and paradoxes are achieved by scanning a QR code to learn more – great for inquisitive mines. Book your tickets with GetYourGuide here.

Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

Another great option for families is the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, a hands-on museum filled with interactive exhibits that cover science, technology, and medicine. Kids can engage in activities like building robots or experimenting with physics, which are both educational and fun. The museum offers a sensory-friendly experience with tactile and visual exhibits that allow children to interact in a controlled way. Additionally, there are quiet areas available where kids can take a break if needed.

Oslo Opera House

For a unique experience, the Oslo Opera House is a stunning architectural landmark where visitors can walk on the roof to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the fjord. The sloping roof is accessible and fun to explore, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure that children will love. The outdoor space is less crowded and provides a soothing environment for children who may be sensitive to noise or crowds.

Fram Museum

The Fram Museum is another family-friendly attraction, dedicated to Norway’s polar exploration history. It features the Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built, which visitors can explore. The museum offers a fascinating look at polar expeditions, with displays that capture children’s imaginations. It’s a spacious venue with clear paths and quiet areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for families.

Tøyenbadet

For water-based fun, Tøyenbadet is Oslo’s largest indoor swimming pool complex, featuring multiple pools, including a children’s pool and a therapy pool. Swimming is a great way for children to expend energy, and the variety of pools caters to different age groups and skill levels. The warm therapy pool, in particular, provides a calming environment that can be beneficial for children who enjoy water-based sensory experiences.

Oslo Reptile Park

If your family is interested in animals, Oslo Reptile Park is a small indoor zoo that specializes in reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Children can get up close to a variety of exotic animals, including snakes, lizards, and frogs, which can be both educational and exciting. The park’s dim lighting and quiet atmosphere make it a less stimulating environment, suitable for children who are sensitive to noise and bright lights.

Norwegian Folk Museum

Exploring Norwegian culture can be both fun and educational at the Norwegian Folk Museum, an open-air museum showcasing historic buildings, traditional costumes, and live demonstrations. The museum offers activities such as horse and carriage rides, traditional crafts, and interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about Norway’s history. The expansive outdoor areas allow families to explore at their own pace, making it a low-stress, sensory-friendly destination.

Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower

The Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower offers a mix of adventure and education. This museum, dedicated to the history of skiing, is located at the base of the iconic Holmenkollen ski jump, with a tower offering stunning views of Oslo. The museum’s interactive exhibits are appealing to children, and the ride to the top of the ski jump tower is an exciting experience. The surrounding outdoor areas offer plenty of space to explore, and the cool, crisp air at the higher altitude can be refreshing for children who enjoy being outdoors. You can also book a spectacular walk to Holmenkollen here.

Scenic Fjord Cruise

This is one of our top activities to do in Oslo with autistic children. The Norwegian Fjords are on the bucketlist of so many people – and this is a way to get a little taster of what to expect without a huge time commitment. You can book a scenic fjord cruise online in advance here.

Oslo Botanical Garden

For a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, the Oslo Botanical Garden offers a beautiful, tranquil space where children can learn about various plants and enjoy the natural surroundings. The garden’s quiet and serene environment makes it an ideal spot for children who need a break from more stimulating activities. The diverse textures and scents of the plants provide gentle sensory engagement, adding to the garden’s appeal. If I were to return to Oslo, I would base at least one day around seeing the Botanical Garden in Oslo. Not only is it free – it is enormous and boasts so many interesting and educational areas. We barely saw any of the gardens compared to what exists!

Getting Around Oslo With Autistic Children

The city’s public transport system, including buses, trams, and ferries, is equipped with ramps and spaces for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The public transport is very easy to use and there always seems to be people around willing to help if you need it. In Oslo, after originally arriving by train from the airport, we literally walked everywhere. The city is easy to walk and most things do not take a long time to reach by foot.

Is Oslo Autism-Friendly?

I get very easily distressed trying to work out public transport – and I can quite honestly say that Oslo has been the best and easiest transport system to use in Europe, maybe even the world. I did not get distressed at all. When you walk to leave the airport, you will automatically find the train station. There are ticket machines everywhere and there are people to help you if you need it.

I end up choosing to walk most places because I do get easily overwhelmed with figuring out public transport. I felt so comfortable in Oslo, because we could walk around easily and were able to reach all of the places we intended to see just by walking. We were exploring on a Sunday and I am not sure if that contributed to the city being quiet and therefore easy to navigate with two strollers. Almost all of the ‘normal’ shops were closed on Sunday – which was a real pain in the bum because Sylvie had tossed one of her shoes between Oslo airport and the apartment. I felt constantly stressed that she did not have a pair of shoes to wear and worried that she would become upset, wet or we could be asked to leave somewhere because she had no shoes on.

I use Google maps a lot, I open a route and follow it and check up on my progress using the app. This worked really well in Oslo and everything was exactly what and where it said it would be. I recommend setting up Google maps accessibility feature so you are routed via the most accessible options. And don’t forget to download Google offline maps if you won’t have access to data.

There were multiple McDonald’s which is what we rely on when travelling with autistic children and a travelling with a child with allergies. There was also plenty of options to get food delivered – including McDonald’s. There are a number of stores which seem to be open 24/7 especially on the weekend. This was handy when our flight landed late and we needed a few snacks for the kids. I think that it really helps with how overwhelmed our children are to offer them to choose a snack in a store after a long travel day.

Things That Make Oslo Stand Out For Families

• The public transport system in Oslo is easy to navigate and there are often staff around to help you if you need it.
• Oslo is quite easy to walk around, which saves worrying about public transport while you are in the city.
• Food deliveries are easy and can be done within an app. There are plenty of options which should suit almost all tastes.
• It is easy to book excursions all in one place: the GetYourGuide app. You can even book tickets right before you want to go in some places. We did this with the Paradox Museum because we were not sure exactly when we would arrive. I just opened the app when we were a few minutes away and booked our tickets.

Tips for a Smooth Experience in Norway

1. Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in. Use my guide to visiting Norway with kids to help you plan for your trip.
2. Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
3. Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
4. Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts.

Oslo is a beautiful, accessible, and welcoming city that offers a range of experiences for families with autistic children. With its well-designed facilities, understanding staff, and commitment to inclusivity, Oslo makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a memorable and stress-free vacation. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying the stunning natural scenery, or simply relaxing, Oslo has something to offer every family.

Continue Planning Your Next Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

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The post Oslo With Autistic Children: A Family-Friendly Guide appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.