Foreign visitors to mainland China must have their accommodation registered with the local public security authorities. For most tourists staying in a hotel, the hotel handles this during check-in. If you stay in a private home, rented flat or other non-hotel accommodation, you or your host must arrange registration within 24 hours of arrival at that address.

There has been an important recent change for accomodation registration in China:

On 21 September 2026, China’s National Immigration Administration introduced nationwide online accommodation registration for foreigners staying outside hotels. You can still register in person with the local public security authorities. This guide explains both options and how to avoid problems when travelling between cities.

What Is Accommodation Registration in China?

Accommodation registration is the process of reporting where a foreign national is staying in mainland China. It is sometimes called temporary residence registration, temporary accommodation registration or 住宿登记 (zhùsù dēngjì).

The requirement comes from Article 39 of China’s Exit and Entry Administration Law. It applies to foreign visitors staying in hotels and to those staying in other types of accommodation. The difference is who submits the information: hotels register their foreign guests; at non-hotel addresses, the foreign visitor or the person providing the accommodation must do it.

Accommodation registration is separate from a visa, arrival card or permission to enter China. Having a valid visa or entering under a visa-free arrangement does not remove the registration requirement.

China Accommodation Registration Rules at a Glance

The nationwide legal rule for accommodation registration in China is 24 hours for non-hotel stays. Older local information may give different advice, so prioritise the current national immigration guidance and confirm any unusual situation with the local authorities.

Do Hotels in China Register Foreign Guests Automatically?

Hotels are responsible for registering foreign guests and reporting their accommodation information to the public security authorities. At check-in, you should be prepared to show your valid passport or another accepted identity document. Each foreign guest in your party should have their own documents available.

You generally do not need to visit a police station separately after checking into a hotel that has completed the required registration. If you are uncertain whether the hotel has done so, ask reception to confirm.

When booking, check that the property can process foreign guests’ identification and registration. If you are travelling with children, ask whether the property needs their passports at check-in too.

What If You Stay in an Airbnb-Style Rental, Apartment or Someone’s Home?

If you stay somewhere other than a hotel, you or the person accommodating you must complete the registration within 24 hours of arrival. This applies even if you are staying with friends or relatives, are not paying for the accommodation, or are visiting under a visa-free policy.

Before booking a holiday flat or private rental, ask the host who will handle accommodation registration, what documents they can provide to establish the address and whether they can help if the online application needs additional information. Do not assume that an accommodation booking platform submits the police registration on your behalf. Always ask.

If a host says registration is unnecessary, consult the official National Immigration Administration announcement rather than relying solely on that reassurance.

How to Register Accommodation Online in China

From 21 September 2026, the National Immigration Administration rolled out online accommodation registration nationwide for foreigners staying in places other than hotels. It followed a pilot launched in seven provincial-level regions in March 2026.

According to the official announcement, the foreign visitor or the person accommodating them can use one of these channels:

• The National Immigration Administration’s official government services website (s.nia.gov.cn).
• The NIA 12367 mobile app (see below).
• The NIA 12367 WeChat mini programme (see below).
• The National Immigration Administration service through Alipay’s mini programme (see below).

How to Download the NIA 12367 Mobile App

To download the official NIA 12367 mobile app you can use the following links:

Android: The NIA 12367 android app can be downloaded by scanning the QR code on the linked webpage. There are also scannable codes on the NIA official website to download the app via Alipay or WeChat.

iOs and HarmonyOS: The iOS and HarmonyOS version of the NIA 12367 app can be downloaded through the Apple app store.

Find the accommodation registration service in the foreigner services area, complete the required identity verification and follow the instructions to enter the guest and address details. Exact screens and required uploads may vary. Have your passport, accommodation address and relevant host or property information ready.

Online registration has the same legal effect as registration in person. The online service does not extend the 24-hour deadline. Save the acknowledgement or confirmation after submitting, and check for any request to correct missing information.

How to Register in Person at a Police Station

In-person registration remains available through the public security authorities responsible for your accommodation address. Depending on the location, this may be the local police station or another designated public security service point.

1. Find the public security office responsible for the address where you are staying.
2. Take your passport or accepted identity document and details of the accommodation.
3. Ask your host what proof of address or property documents are needed locally.
4. Complete the registration within 24 hours of arrival.
5. Keep the confirmation or registration record for your files.

To get directions to the public security offices you should visit to register your accommodation adddress you will need alternative China maps as Google Maps will not work as it does outside of China.

Requirements for property documents can differ locally. For example, Beijing’s official registration guidance describes proof of residence such as a lease agreement or property ownership document, along with identification. Check the rules for the city where you are staying rather than assuming Beijing’s document list applies everywhere.

What Documents Do You Need?

Prepare the following before you arrive at a non-hotel property:

• Your valid passport or another accepted travel or identification document.
• The complete address of your accommodation, ideally written in Chinese.
• Contact details for the person accommodating you or managing the property.
• Any rental agreement, property ownership information or other proof of address requested by the local authority.
• Access to the phone or account used for online identity verification, if registering digitally.

The precise document and photograph requirements are determined by the official application channel and local rules. Ask the host or local public security office before travelling if a document may be difficult to obtain.

Do You Need to Register Again When Changing Hotels or Cities?

Each hotel should register your stay when you check in. If you move from one private accommodation address to another, arrange registration for the new address rather than assuming your earlier registration covers the whole trip.

For example, a traveller spending three nights in a Shanghai hotel and then two nights at a friend’s apartment in Beijing would normally have the hotel register the Shanghai stay and would need to arrange non-hotel registration for the Beijing address within 24 hours of arrival.

Keep the dates and addresses of your accommodation in one travel document. If you change your passport or immigration status while staying in China, ask the relevant public security authority whether your registration details need updating.

Does the Rule Apply to Visa-Free Travel and Transit?

Yes. The National Immigration Administration confirms that accommodation registration also applies to foreign nationals entering under visa-exemption arrangements. Visa-free entry is not an exemption from reporting where you stay.

If you enter China under a transit arrangement and stay overnight in a hotel, the hotel handles registration. If you stay at a private address, the non-hotel rules apply. Remaining entirely airside without entering mainland China is a different situation from entering the country and staying at an address.

For transit planning, read our guide to leaving Beijing Airport during a layover and explanation of the TWOV airline code.

What Happens If You Do Not Register?

Failing to complete required accommodation registration can lead to enforcement action. Chinese official guidance warns that failure to register may result in a warning or a fine.

If you discover that your registration has not been completed, contact the appropriate public security authority promptly and explain the circumstances.

Tips for Autistic Travellers, Disabled Visitors and Families

The simplest way to reduce uncertainty is to arrange accommodation registration before it becomes a last-minute task.

• Choose a hotel if you want a simpler process: the hotel normally completes the required registration at check-in.
• Confirm private-host arrangements in writing: ask who will register the stay and whether the host can help with online forms.
• Prepare a document folder: keep passports, booking details and the address in Chinese together.
• Allow time on arrival: do not schedule a long excursion immediately after reaching a private rental if registration is still outstanding.
• Plan communication support: if forms, queues or unfamiliar instructions are difficult, arrange for a travelling companion or host to assist where permitted.
• Save confirmations: a screenshot or electronic record can help if you need to refer to the registration later.

For other practical planning tools, see our guides to apps to download before visiting China, map apps for China and accessible transport in China.

FAQ About Accommodation Registration in China

Do Tourists Have to Complete Accommodation Registration in China?

Yes, but perhaps not personally. Hotels register their foreign guests. Foreign visitors staying in accommodation other than hotels must ensure that they or their host register the accommodation within 24 hours of arrival.

What Is the 24-Hour Registration Rule in China?

Foreign nationals staying at a non-hotel address must have that stay registered with the local public security authorities within 24 hours of arriving at the address.

Does a Hotel Register My Stay for Me?

Yes. Hotels are responsible for registering foreign guests and submitting the relevant information. You must provide the identification required at check-in.

Can I Register a Private Apartment Online?

Yes. Nationwide online registration for foreigners staying outside of hotels began on 21 September 2026. Official channels include the NIA website, NIA 12367 app and supported WeChat or Alipay mini programmes.

Do I Still Have to Visit a Police Station?

Not necessarily. Online registration is now available nationwide for non-hotel stays and has the same legal effect as in-person registration. In-person registration remains an option.

Does My Airbnb Host Register Me Automatically?

Do not assume so. Ask the host whether they will complete the official registration and obtain confirmation. A platform booking is not, by itself, proof of police accommodation registration.

Do I Need to Register If I Stay With Family or Friends?

Yes. The visitor or the person providing accommodation must register the non-hotel stay within 24 hours of arrival.

Does Visa-Free Entry Exempt Me?

No. The National Immigration Administration confirms that accommodation registration still applies to visitors entering under visa-exemption arrangements.

What If I Change Accommodation During My Trip?

The new hotel should register your check-in. If you move to a new private address, arrange registration for that address within 24 hours of arrival.

What If I Miss the Registration Deadline?

Contact the relevant public security authority as soon as possible. Failure to register can lead to a warning or fine; do not assume that late registration removes any consequences.

Information checked against national immigration guidance available in November 2026. This article concerns mainland China; Hong Kong and Macao have separate immigration and accommodation arrangements. Registration processes and local documentation requirements may change, so confirm unusual cases with the relevant authorities.

Continue Planning Your Visit to China With Autistic Children

• Heading to the capital? Our guide to Beijing with autistic children is a good starting point
• Find out if you can leave the airport during a layover in China
• Our guide to laying over in Beijing Capital Airport explains everything you need to know
• Need airport assistance? Learn all about special assistance at Beijing Capital Airport
• Visiting the airport with a disability? Learn more about the disabled facilities at Beijing Capital Airport
• Travelling with medication? Learn more about bringing medication into China
• Here is everything you need to know about bringing a power bank into China
• Are you British? Learn more about the visa-free travel agreement with China

Continue Planning Your Asia Itinerary With Kids

• Start with planning your overall Asia family trip, including flights, pacing, transport and choosing destinations that suit your child’s needs
• Travelling via an airport to Taiwan? Learn how to book special assistance and what help you can expect
• Travelling with medication? Learn what to include on your doctors travel letter for medication
• Looking for easier first-time Asia destinations? Consider visiting Japan with kids for clean transport, family facilities and predictable routines
• Prefer beaches and slower travel? Find out more about Thailand with children for resort stays, nature and flexible family days out
• Planning big city adventures? Discover what to expect in Hong Kong with autistic children
• Hoping to Island hop? Learn more about visiting the Philippines with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your 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

The post Accommodation Registration in China: The 24-Hour Rule for Visitors appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Foreign travellers entering mainland China can now complete their arrival card online before travelling. The China Digital Arrival Card, officially described as the online Arrival Card for Foreigners, was introduced nationwide on 20 November 2025.

The new system can make arrival easier because you can enter your information before reaching Chinese immigration rather than completing a paper card after a long flight. Paper arrival cards have not disappeared, however, and travellers who cannot complete the form online can still fill one in when they arrive.

This guide explains who needs the China Digital Arrival Card, who is exempt, how to complete it through official channels and what to do if you cannot fill it in before travelling.

Entry procedures can change. Information in this guide was checked in late 2026 against announcements from China’s National Immigration Administration. Always check current official requirements before travelling.

What Is the China Digital Arrival Card?

The China Digital Arrival Card is an online version of the arrival information foreign nationals provide when entering mainland China.

China’s National Immigration Administration introduced online arrival card completion at ports nationwide from 20 November 2025. Foreign travellers can submit their entry information electronically before travelling through official NIA channels.

The system does not mean that every traveller must use a smartphone or complete the form before boarding a flight. Online completion is an additional way to provide the required arrival information.

Is the China Digital Arrival Card Mandatory?

Foreign nationals who are required to complete an arrival card still need to provide the relevant entry information, but completing it digitally before travel is not the only option.

If you cannot complete the form online in advance, the National Immigration Administration says you can provide the information after arriving at a Chinese port of entry. You can scan the official QR code with your phone, use an on-site smart device or complete a paper Foreigners’ Arrival Card.

This is useful for travellers who do not use smartphones, have difficulty accessing the website or prefer not to complete an online form before travelling.

Who Needs to Complete a China Arrival Card?

In general, foreign nationals entering mainland China should expect to complete arrival information unless they fall into one of the exemption categories published by the National Immigration Administration.

Who Is Exempt From the China Digital Arrival Card?

According to the National Immigration Administration, you do not need to complete the China Digital Arrival Card if you fall into one of these eight categories:

• Foreign nationals who hold a valid Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People’s Republic of China.
• Foreign nationals who hold a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese).
• Foreign nationals in direct transit for no more than 24 hours who remain within the restricted area of the port.
• Members of foreign tour groups who qualify for visa-free entry or are travelling on a group visa.
• Foreign crew members, drivers and other employees working on transport vehicles.
• Foreign nationals who enter China on a cruise ship and leave on the same cruise.
• Individuals eligible for the courtesy arrangement that allows their entry and exit documents to be submitted centrally.
• Foreign nationals who enter China through an E-channel.

You can review all of these exemptions directly on the Entry Registration Notice page of the National Immigration Administration Government Service Platform.

The arrival card is separate from your passport, passport validity rules, visa or eligibility to enter China without a visa. Completing an arrival card does not give you permission to enter the country and does not replace any visa requirement that applies to you.

Do Children Need a China Arrival Card?

The published exemption list is based on immigration status and type of entry rather than simply age.

Families should have each traveller’s passport and journey details available when completing the arrival process. Follow the instructions in the official system for accompanying children and ask immigration staff for help if the online form does not fit your family’s circumstances.

Where to Complete the China Digital Arrival Card

The National Immigration Administration provides several official ways to complete the arrival card online.

• The National Immigration Administration’s official online arrival card website.
• The NIA government service platform.
• The NIA 12367 mobile app.
• The official NIA 12367 WeChat mini programme.
• The relevant Alipay mini programme.
• The official arrival-card QR code.

The official web address published by the National Immigration Administration is s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/ or you can click directly on this link to the Arrival Card Filling page of their website. Check the domain carefully before entering passport or travel information.

How to Download the NIA 12367 Mobile App

To download the official NIA 12367 mobile app you can use the following links:

Android: The NIA 12367 android app can be downloaded by scanning the QR code on the linked webpage. There are also scannable codes to download the app via Alipay and WeChat.

iOs and HarmonyOS: The iOS and HarmonyOS version of the NIA 12367 app can be downloaded through the Apple app store.

Is the China Digital Arrival Card Free?

Yes. The National Immigration Administration explicitly states that completing the online China arrival card is free of charge.

This is important because fraudulent websites have appeared that imitate the official arrival card service and ask travellers for payment. You will also find that there are many third-party websites offering to fill in the arrival card on your behalf and they likely charge a fee for this.

The second service can be a legitimate way to have your arrival card completed for visiting China, I just point out that the NIA arrival card forms are free to submit so that you are aware and can make the best choice for your family. You do not need to pay a third-party company simply to submit the official arrival card if you do not want to.

Beware of Fake China Arrival Card Websites

China’s National Immigration Administration has issued a specific warning about fraudulent websites pretending to provide the online arrival card service.

These sites may charge unnecessary fees and can also encourage travellers to enter sensitive passport and personal information into an unofficial service.

Use the official NIA website, app, WeChat or Alipay service, or the official QR code provided by Chinese immigration authorities. Do not rely on a sponsored search result simply because it appears at the top of a search page.

What Information Do You Need for the China Arrival Card?

Have your travel documents and itinerary beside you before starting. The arrival process requires information connected with your identity and entry into China.

Depending on your journey and the version of the form presented to you, be prepared to provide details such as your passport information, travel and flight details, purpose of entry and information about where you will stay in China.

Copy names and passport details carefully. Do not guess an accommodation address if you can check it from your hotel reservation.

How to Complete the China Digital Arrival Card

The exact screen layout can change, but the basic preparation is straightforward.

1. Open the official National Immigration Administration arrival card service.
2. Have your passport information, transport details and accommodation information ready.
3. Enter the requested personal and passport information exactly as required.
4. Add the details requested about your arrival and stay in China.
5. Check every section before submitting.
6. Follow the confirmation instructions shown by the official system.

Take your time when entering passport numbers and dates. Completing the form before travel can be particularly helpful if you find paperwork difficult when tired or under time pressure.

When Should You Complete the China Digital Arrival Card?

The official guidance allows foreign travellers to complete the arrival information online before coming to China. Complete it when your travel details are sufficiently settled for you to enter accurate information.

Do not complete the form so early that your flight, accommodation or other details are likely to change without checking what the system requires if those details later change.

For many travellers, completing it shortly before departure provides a useful balance between having confirmed information and avoiding arrival paperwork after a long flight.

What Happens if You Cannot Complete It Online?

You can still complete the arrival process when you reach China.

At the immigration inspection area, travellers who have not submitted their information in advance can use an official QR code on a mobile phone, use smart devices provided at the port or fill in a paper arrival card.

This means a flat phone battery, lack of mobile data or difficulty with the online system does not automatically prevent you from providing the arrival information at the border.

Can You Still Use a Paper Arrival Card?

Yes. Paper Foreigners’ Arrival Cards remain available for travellers who cannot complete the information online.

This is an important accessibility feature for people who do not use smartphones, have difficulty reading digital forms or encounter technical problems.

Using a paper card does not mean you have done something wrong. It remains one of the methods specifically described by the National Immigration Administration.

When we visited China in 2025 we were given a lot of help to fill in the paper arrival card for China. We did arrive when the airport was quiet and we were 2 adults with 3 children so perhaps that is why they helped us. We had one person filling in a paper form for each child to help speeed up the process.

China Digital Arrival Card for Autistic Travellers

Completing the arrival information online can be useful for autistic travellers who find unfamiliar forms, queues or being asked questions under time pressure difficult.

Doing the form in a familiar environment allows more time to check passport details and accommodation information. It can also remove one task from the arrival process after a tiring flight.

Families can prepare by keeping passport details, the hotel address and flight information together in one document or travel folder. I like to also keep a backup of important travel documents in a Google Drive folder which I can then access from anywhere I have an internet connection (though this particular trick will not work for China reliably as Google Services do not typically work very well, if at all). A screenshot or printed copy of important booking information can also be useful if airport Wi-Fi or mobile data is unreliable.

For wider trip planning, our guide to China with autistic children covers practical considerations for families travelling around the country.

China Arrival Card for Disabled Travellers

The option to complete the form in advance can also reduce pressure for disabled travellers who need more time with written information or find standing at immigration counters difficult.

If the digital service itself creates an accessibility barrier, remember that the official system retains alternatives at the port, including smart devices and paper cards.

Arrival card completion is separate from airport special assistance. If you need wheelchair assistance or other disability-related support through the airport, arrange that through the relevant airline and airport process before travelling.

Does the Arrival Card Replace a Chinese Visa?

No. The China Digital Arrival Card is not a visa.

You must separately meet the immigration conditions that apply to your nationality, passport and journey. Depending on your circumstances, that could involve holding a valid Chinese visa or qualifying for an applicable visa-free entry or transit arrangement.

Do not use successful arrival card submission as evidence that you are eligible to board a flight or enter China without doing further research about visa and passport requirements.

Do Transit Passengers Need the China Arrival Card?

Passengers making a direct transit of up to 24 hours who remain within the designated restricted area of the port are among the published exemptions.

This exemption should not be confused with longer visa-free transit policies that allow eligible travellers to leave the airport and enter China temporarily. If you intend to pass through immigration and enter mainland China during a layover, check the requirements for your specific transit arrangement.

If your journey involves Beijing Capital International Airport, our guide to a layover in Beijing can help with practical planning.

Do Cruise Passengers Need a China Arrival Card?

The published exemption list includes cruise passengers who enter and depart on the same cruise ship.

Cruise itineraries and immigration arrangements can be complex, particularly when a journey includes several Chinese ports or an overnight stay. Follow the instructions from your cruise line and Chinese immigration authorities for your exact sailing.

What Happens After You Arrive in China?

Submitting the arrival information is only one part of the entry process. You still need to pass through the immigration procedures that apply at your port of entry.

Keep your passport and relevant travel documents accessible. Follow signs and instructions from immigration staff, and be prepared to provide information about your visit if requested.

Foreign visitors should also be aware of accommodation registration requirements after entry. Hotels normally handle registration for their foreign guests. Different requirements apply when staying somewhere other than a hotel, and China began piloting online registration for some non-hotel accommodation in selected regions in March 2026.

China Digital Arrival Card Checklist

• Check whether you are required to complete an arrival card.
• Use only an official National Immigration Administration channel.
• Remember that the official arrival card service is free.
• Have your passport and confirmed travel information ready.
• Enter your details carefully and check them before submitting.
• Keep your accommodation information accessible during travel.
• Remember that a paper arrival card remains available if you cannot use the online system.
• Check your visa or visa-free entry eligibility separately.

FAQs About the China Digital Arrival Card

When Did the China Digital Arrival Card Start?

China introduced online completion of the Foreigners’ Arrival Card nationwide from 20 November 2025.

Is the China Digital Arrival Card Free?

Yes. China’s National Immigration Administration states that the official online arrival card service is free. Be cautious of unofficial websites asking for payment.

Can I Fill in the China Arrival Card at the Airport?

Yes. If you have not completed it in advance, you can submit the information at a Chinese port of entry using the official QR code, an on-site smart device or a paper arrival card.

Can I Still Fill in a Paper Arrival Card for China?

Yes. Paper arrival cards remain available for travellers who cannot complete the information digitally via the online arrival card for China.

Does the China Digital Arrival Card Replace a Visa?

No. The arrival card and visa requirements are separate. You still need to meet the entry conditions that apply to your nationality and journey.

Do 24-hour Transit Passengers Need an Arrival Card?

Travellers in direct transit for up to 24 hours who remain within the designated restricted area of the port are listed as exempt. Travellers entering mainland China during transit should check the requirements for their specific situation.

Continue Planning Your Visit to China With Autistic Children

• Heading to the capital? Our guide to Beijing with autistic children is a good starting point
• Find out if you can leave the airport during a layover in China
• Our guide to laying over in Beijing Capital Airport explains everything you need to know
• Need airport assistance? Learn all about special assistance at Beijing Capital Airport
• Visiting the airport with a disability? Learn more about the disabled facilities at Beijing Capital Airport
• Travelling with medication? Learn more about bringing medication into China
• Here is everything you need to know about bringing a power bank into China
• Are you British? Learn more about the visa-free travel agreement with China

Continue Planning Your Asia Itinerary With Kids

• Start with planning your overall Asia family trip, including flights, pacing, transport and choosing destinations that suit your child’s needs
• Travelling via an airport to Taiwan? Learn how to book special assistance and what help you can expect
• Travelling with medication? Learn what to include on your doctors travel letter for medication
• Looking for easier first-time Asia destinations? Consider visiting Japan with kids for clean transport, family facilities and predictable routines
• Prefer beaches and slower travel? Find out more about Thailand with children for resort stays, nature and flexible family days out
• Planning big city adventures? Discover what to expect in Hong Kong with autistic children
• Hoping to Island hop? Learn more about visiting the Philippines with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your 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

The post China Digital Arrival Card: Travellers Guide appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Finding the right person to contact about a wheelchair ramp, accessible coach, mobility scooter or extra help on a bus can be surprisingly difficult. Some Irish operators have a dedicated accessibility email, while others direct passengers to general customer services or a regional office.

This guide brings together bus accessibility contacts in Ireland, including Transport for Ireland (TFI) services, commercial coach operators and Translink in Northern Ireland. It is designed for disabled travellers, wheelchair users, autistic passengers and families planning a journey.

Important: A contact listing does not guarantee that every route, vehicle or stop is accessible. Contact details and booking arrangements can change, so follow the operator links before travelling. Northern Ireland uses a separate transport system from the Republic of Ireland.

For more details about general transport across Ireland and Northern Ireland you can refer to our guides: accessible transport in Ireland and accessible transport in Northern Ireland.

Quick Contact: Transport for Ireland Accessibility Enquiries

For many public bus services in the Republic of Ireland, the Transport for Ireland Customer Contact Centre is a useful starting point:

• Within Ireland: 0818 294 015
• From outside Ireland: +353 1 575 6110
• Written enquiries: use the contact form linked from the official TFI JAM Card page.

This is also the contact TFI gives for requesting a physical JAM Card, including the new ‘Ramp Please’ message. For more information, read our ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card guide.

Bus Accessibility Contacts in the Republic of Ireland

The table distinguishes a dedicated accessibility contact from a general customer service route. This matters if you need to arrange a specific wheelchair space or discuss complex travel needs.

Dublin Bus Accessibility Contact

Dublin Bus publishes dedicated Access Officer contact information and you can find it below:

Email: independent.travel@dublinbus.ie

Telephone: +353 1 703 3002

This is a particularly useful contact if you need advice before travelling rather than reporting an ordinary timetable issue.

Ask about wheelchair boarding, mobility scooter permits, communication adjustments and independent travel support. Dublin Bus also describes a free Independent Travel Support scheme for eligible adult passengers who want to practise journeys with guidance. See the Dublin Bus Independent Travel Support page for current eligibility and arrangements.

Go-Ahead Ireland Accessibility Contact

Transport for Ireland lists the below accessibility contacts for Go-Ahead Ireland:

Email: accessibility@goaheadireland.ie

Telephone: 0818 804 071

You can also use the general TFI contact centre on 0818 294 015 for assistance with TFI service enquiries.

Explain the route, direction, date and stop you intend to use. If you need a wheelchair ramp or mobility scooter space, ask about both the vehicle and the boarding stop.

Bus Éireann: Wheelchair Booking Rules

Bus Éireann makes an important distinction between its service types. According to its published wheelchair-accessible transport booking guidance:

• City and town services: the operator says its fleet is wheelchair accessible and advance booking is not required.
• Regional Public Service Obligation (PSO) services: passengers requiring reserved accessible transport must contact the operator at least 24 hours before travel using 0818 294 015 or +353 1 575 6110 from outside the Republic.
• Expressway services: passengers should book accessible transport online at least 24 hours before travel.

Do not treat the 24-hour period as a guarantee that any requested departure or stop will be suitable. Check the specific route and accessible boarding locations before making plans. The Bus Éireann wheelchair-accessible routes page explains that some services and stops have infrastructure limitations.

TFI Local Link: Contact Your Regional Office

TFI Local Link covers local and rural transport, but service patterns and accessibility arrangements vary. The most useful contact is usually the regional office responsible for the journey rather than a single national accessibility email.

Use the TFI Local Link office directory to find the relevant telephone number and email address. The directory covers 15 regional offices.

When contacting the office, ask whether the specific journey can accommodate your wheelchair or mobility aid, whether a ramp or lift is provided, whether a wheelchair space needs booking and whether door-to-door collection is available on that service. Our guide to TFI Local Link explains how the network works.

Other Bus and Coach Accessibility Contacts in Ireland

The following operators may be useful for airport transfers, intercity journeys and routes outside the main TFI network. Some contacts are general customer service channels rather than dedicated disability teams.

For these commercial operators, ask specifically whether the vehicle on your intended departure is accessible. A company may operate more than one vehicle type, and an accessible vehicle does not necessarily mean that every stop can accommodate ramp or lift deployment.

Translink Accessibility Contacts in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has a different public transport network and separate contact arrangements. For Translink bus and coach travel, use:

• Telephone: +44 28 9066 6630
• Written advice: Translink accessibility advice form
• Service information: Translink accessible bus travel guidance

Ask about the particular route, stop, wheelchair space and any advance assistance requirements. Our accessible transport in Northern Ireland guide provides further planning advice.

What If Your Bus Operator Is Not Listed?

There is no complete verified directory of named Access Officers for every private bus and coach operator in Ireland. If you do not know which company operates your route, the National Transport Authority’s current bus licence register may help identify the licensed operator.

The National Transport Authority also notes their accessibility contact as the below:

Email: accessibility@nationaltransport.ie

This is an authority-level contact, not a substitute for booking wheelchair space directly with the operator.

What to Include in an Accessibility Enquiry

Providing a few practical details at the start can help the operator answer your question without several rounds of emails.

• Journey: route number, travel date, departure time and both stops.
• Mobility: whether you use a manual wheelchair, powered wheelchair, scooter, walker or other equipment.
• Dimensions: the wheelchair or scooter size and weight, if the operator needs them.
• Boarding: whether you require a ramp, lift, kneeling bus or help finding the correct boarding position.
• Communication: any non-verbal communication, extra processing time or clear written instructions needed.
• Travelling companions: whether a carer, support worker or family member is travelling with you.
• Return journey: whether the same accessible arrangements will be available in both directions.

You do not need to disclose a detailed medical history to ask an initial question about vehicle accessibility. Focus on the adjustments and equipment needed for the journey.

Using the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card

The new ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card is designed to let passengers show a bus driver that they need the ramp lowered without making a spoken request. Transport for Ireland introduced it with NOW Group as part of the wider JAM Card scheme.

To request a physical card, use the shop on the JAM Card website to order your free card to a UK or Irish address.

The card communicates a request but does not reserve a wheelchair space or guarantee that a stop is accessible. If you need advance booking, contact the operator as well. See our full ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card explanation and our guide to the Just a Minute JAM Card.

What If the Bus Ramp Is Not Working?

Do not attempt to board using an unsafe ramp or lift. Tell the driver that you cannot board safely and ask what alternative the operator can provide.

Transport for Ireland’s wheelchair accessibility guidance gives operator-specific advice. It says Dublin Bus passengers should wait for the next bus and report the issue to TFI; for Go-Ahead Ireland, the driver can contact control about the next service and an alternative may be arranged if necessary.

Record the route, stop, direction, time and vehicle details if possible. These are useful when requesting assistance or reporting an inaccessible journey.

FAQ About Bus Accessibility Contacts in Ireland

Who Do I Contact About Dublin Bus Accessibility?

Contact the Dublin Bus Access Officer at independent.travel@dublinbus.ie or +353 1 703 3002.

How Do I Book Wheelchair Access on Bus Éireann?

For Regional PSO services, contact 0818 294 015 at least 24 hours ahead. Expressway accessible transport should be booked online at least 24 hours ahead. City and town services do not require advance wheelchair booking under the operator’s published guidance.

Who Do I Contact About an Accessible TFI Local Link Bus?

Use the official TFI Local Link regional office directory and contact the office covering your intended journey.

Where Can I Request a ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card?

Use the shop on the JAM Card website.

Do All Private Coaches Accept the ‘Ramp Please’ Card?

Participation has not been established for every commercial coach operator. Ask the individual company about its communication and boarding arrangements.

Can I Take a Mobility Scooter on Any Bus in Ireland?

Not necessarily. Vehicle dimensions, permits and operator rules may apply. Ask the operator to confirm that your specific scooter can be carried.

Are Bus Accessibility Contacts the Same in Northern Ireland?

No. Translink has its own accessibility advice arrangements. Its contact centre number is +44 28 9066 6630.

What Should I Do If My Booked Accessible Service Cannot Accommodate Me?

Contact the operator immediately, ask what alternative it can provide and keep a record of the journey and booking details. If necessary, follow its formal complaints process.

Related Accessible Travel Guides

• Accessible Transport in Ireland
• 14 Tips for Visiting Ireland With a Disability
• What Is TFI Local Link?
• The ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card in Ireland
• Accessible Transport in Northern Ireland
• ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ Badge in Ireland

Contact details are based on the operator and TFI sources linked above, together with the supplied contact directory. Some commercial operator details should be reconfirmed before travel. This guide is a contact resource, not confirmation that any particular service or stop is accessible.

Continue Planning Your Ireland Trip

• Spending time in the capital? Explore Dublin with autistic children
• Plan your onward journeys with our guide to accessible transport in Ireland
• Learn more about travelling to Ireland with prescription medication
• Read about special assistance at Dublin Airport to understand how to arrange airport support
• Familiarise yourself with disabled facilities at Dublin Airport before travelling
• Including Northern Ireland in your itinerary? Read our separate guide to Northern Ireland with autistic children

Continue Planning Your Europe Travel Itinerary With Children

• 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
• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines

Continue Planning Your 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

The post Bus Accessibility Contacts in Ireland: Operators, Emails and Assistance appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

If you are travelling through Singapore Changi Airport with an autistic child, a hidden disability or reduced mobility, you may notice airport staff wearing a gold Care Ambassador badge. These staff members have received additional training to support passengers with disabilities and other assistance needs.

A Care Ambassador at Singapore Changi Airport is part of Changi Airport’s wider Care@Changi programme, which aims to make the airport easier to navigate for people with physical and non-visible disabilities. Knowing who they are and how to find one can be useful if you or someone in your family needs extra understanding or help during the journey.

What Is a Changi Airport Care Ambassador?

A Changi Care Ambassador is a member of the airport’s frontline community who has received specialist training in supporting passengers with disabilities. The programme includes support for people with non-visible disabilities, such as autism and dementia, as well as passengers with physical, hearing or visual impairments.

According to Changi Airport, Care Ambassadors are trained to approach passengers appropriately, understand their needs and offer practical support. The programme was developed with Rainbow Centre Training & Consultancy, a Singapore organisation with expertise in disability support and education.

Care Ambassadors are not a separate airline check-in service, medical team or guaranteed personal escort. Their role is to help passengers feel understood and find appropriate support within the airport.

Official information: Changi Airport – Special Assistance and Travelling With an Invisible Disability.

How to Recognise a Care Ambassador at Singapore Airport

Changi Airport says its Care Ambassadors can be identified by a gold Care badge or pin. Look for this badge on the clothing or uniform of frontline airport staff.

You can find a picture of the Changi Airport Care Ambassador badge on their website page with their “Care@Changi commits to fostering greater inclusivity to enhance passenger experience” newsletter.

If you cannot find someone wearing the badge, go to an airport information counter and ask for assistance. This is the alternative Changi Airport recommends on its official website.

What Can a Care Ambassador at Singapore Changi Help With?

Care Ambassadors have been trained to recognise that some passengers may need more time, different communication or practical guidance. Depending on the situation, a Care Ambassador may be able to:

• Listen to your concerns and help explain an airport procedure.
• Give clear directions or guide you towards an appropriate service point.
• Allow more time for communication when a passenger is finding a situation difficult.
• Help staff understand that a passenger may have a non-visible disability.
• Direct you towards the right airport team when you need more specific assistance.

The exact support available will depend on the situation and the staff member’s responsibilities. Changi does not promise that a Care Ambassador can personally accompany every passenger through the entire airport, provide medical care or bypass security procedures.

How Care Ambassadors Support Autistic Travellers

Airports can be particularly demanding for some autistic people. Bright lighting, announcements, queues, unfamiliar instructions and changes to routine may make it harder to process information or communicate.

Changi’s Care Ambassador training is designed to improve how frontline staff respond to passengers with these needs. The airport has described an Observe, Wait and Listen approach, encouraging staff to understand the situation before deciding how best to help.

For example, you could tell a Care Ambassador that your child needs instructions given one at a time, that they need extra processing time, or that they communicate more easily through a parent or a communication aid. You can ask for help without having to explain your entire medical history.

It is still worth preparing in advance. Changi Airport provides a social story showing the steps of an airport journey, from check-in to boarding. Families can use it before departure to talk through what will happen. The airport also publishes sensory resources on its special assistance page.

Do You Need to Book a Care Ambassador?

Changi Airport describes Care Ambassadors as trained frontline staff whom passengers can approach for help. Its public information does not describe a separate advance booking system for an individual Care Ambassador.

If you need formal airport special assistance, arrange that through your airline before travelling. This is particularly important for wheelchair assistance, boarding support, help with transfers or assistance during a flight connection. Changi recommends contacting your airline early and generally advises at least 48 hours’ notice for special assistance requirements.

A Care Ambassador can be a useful person to approach if you need help at the airport, but finding one should not be your only plan when essential assistance is required.

Our guide to special assistance at Singapore Changi Airport explains the wider support available and how to arrange it.

Care Ambassadors and Hidden Disability Lanyards

Changi Airport recognises the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard and Singapore’s Helping Hand lanyard as ways passengers may discreetly indicate that they need additional understanding or support.

The airport says its staff have been trained to recognise these lanyards and respond appropriately.

If you find it easier to communicate your needs without speaking, consider carrying a short written explanation alongside your lanyard. For example, you might explain that you need simple instructions, more time to respond or help finding a quieter place to wait.

Read more in our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard guide and guide to Singapore’s Helping Hand Scheme.

Care Ambassadors Versus Airline Special Assistance

It helps to understand the difference between these services.

Care Ambassadors are trained airport staff who can offer understanding, guidance and help finding the right support when you are at Changi.

Airline special assistance is the service you should request in advance if you need practical support such as wheelchair assistance, boarding help or an arranged transfer between gates.

Airport information counters are a useful first stop if you cannot locate a Care Ambassador or are unsure whom to approach.

These options can work together. You might have assistance pre-booked through your airline but still approach a Care Ambassador if an unexpected difficulty arises.

How to Ask a Care Ambassador for Help

If you or your child needs support at Changi, try the following approach:

1. Look for the gold Care badge. If you cannot see one, approach an airport information counter.
2. Explain the immediate problem. You could say, “My child is autistic and needs more time to understand instructions,” or “I need help finding the assistance meeting point.”
3. Be specific about what would help. Ask for one instruction at a time, written directions or help contacting the appropriate staff member.
4. Use communication aids if needed. A card, phone note or picture may be easier than speaking in a busy terminal.
5. Ask for the correct team if necessary. If you need a wheelchair, medical support or assistance boarding your aircraft, the Care Ambassador may need to direct you to another service.

For families who find airport transitions difficult, it may help to show your child the Care Ambassador photographs in Changi’s social story before travelling.

Other Accessibility Support at Changi Airport

Care Ambassadors are only one part of Changi’s accessibility programme. The airport also publishes information about wheelchair assistance, accessible facilities, special assistance lanes and resources for travellers with non-visible disabilities.

Changi’s official special assistance guidance says its immigration Special Assistance Lanes are intended for passengers travelling with young children, assisting a companion or using mobility aids. Up to four travellers may clear immigration together through these lanes, subject to the airport’s current arrangements and eligibility requirements.

Do not assume a Care Ambassador badge or a hidden disability lanyard gives automatic access to these lanes. If you are unsure whether they are appropriate for your family, ask airport staff.

For more about the special assistance service at Changi Airport read our guide to Changi Airport assistance. For advice beyond the airport, see our accessible transport in Singapore guide.

Care Ambassador at Singapore Airport FAQs

What Is a Care Ambassador at Changi Airport in Singapore?

A Care Ambassador is a trained frontline airport staff member who can help passengers with disabilities, including non-visible disabilities such as autism. They are part of the Care@Changi accessibility programme.

How Do I Recognise a Care Ambassador?

Look for a gold Care badge or pin worn by airport staff. Changi’s official social story and invisible disabilities website page include photographs showing what the badge looks like.

Where Can I Find a Care Ambassador?

You can approach one when you see the gold badge. If you cannot find one, Changi Airport advises asking for assistance at an information counter.

Can Care Ambassadors Help Autistic Passengers?

Yes. Their training includes understanding and supporting people with non-visible disabilities. Tell the staff member what practical adjustment or help would be useful in the moment.

Do I Need to Book a Care Ambassador?

Changi’s public guidance describes Care Ambassadors as staff you can approach at the airport, rather than a separately bookable service. Arrange essential flight-related assistance through your airline in advance.

Are Care Ambassadors the Same as Wheelchair Assistance Staff?

No. A Care Ambassador may help you find the right service, but wheelchair and boarding assistance should be arranged with your airline.

Do I Need a Sunflower Lanyard to Ask for Help?

No. A lanyard can be a useful way to indicate a non-visible disability, but you can approach airport staff and explain your needs without one.

Can a Care Ambassador Take Me Through Security Without Queuing?

There is no general guarantee of queue-jumping or exemption from security checks. Ask staff about the assistance and any suitable lanes available for your circumstances.

For a traveller who needs a little extra time, clearer communication or help finding the right support, recognising a Care Ambassador can make an unfamiliar airport easier to navigate. The key thing to remember is simple: look for the gold Care badge, or ask at an information counter. If you need essential wheelchair or boarding assistance, make those arrangements with your airline before your journey.

Useful Official Resources

• Changi Airport – Special Assistance and Accessibility
• Changi Airport – Travelling With an Invisible Disability
• Changi Airport – Care Ambassador Programme Announcement

Continue Planning an Accessible Trip to Singapore

• Read our guide to special assistance at Singapore Changi Airport to find out what support to discuss
• Want to know what’s available in the terminal? Explore the disabled facilities at Singapore Changi
• Our guide to accessible transport in Singapore covers the MRT, buses and taxis
• Find out how Singapore’s Helping Hand Scheme works on public transport
• Taking the MRT or bus? Learn how SimplyGo works in Singapore so you can decide how best to pay
• Bringing prescription medication? Read our guide to taking medication to Singapore
• Our guide to visiting Singapore with autistic children covers where to stay, how to get around & more

Continue Planning Your Asia Itinerary With Kids

• Start with planning your overall Asia family trip, including flights, pacing, transport and choosing destinations that suit your child’s needs
• Looking for easier first-time Asia destinations? Consider visiting Japan with kids for clean transport, family facilities and predictable routines
• Prefer beaches and slower travel? Find out more about Thailand with children for resort stays, nature and flexible family days out
• Planning big city adventures? Discover what to expect in Hong Kong with autistic children
• Hoping to Island hop? Learn more about visiting the Philippines with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your 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

The post What Is a Care Ambassador at Singapore Changi Airport? appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Asking a bus driver to lower a ramp should be straightforward. But for someone who finds speaking difficult, is anxious about making a request or uses a communication aid, even a short conversation can be a barrier to travelling independently.

Transport for Ireland (TFI), working with NOW Group, has introduced a ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card so passengers can show the driver that they need the bus ramp lowered without having to ask verbally. It is a practical addition to the existing JAM Card scheme, which helps people communicate that they may need extra time. Learn more about the JAM card in our guide.

What Is the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card?

The Ramp Please JAM Card is a non-verbal way for a passenger to tell a bus driver that they need the boarding ramp lowered. Instead of explaining their needs aloud, the passenger can display the message on the card.

It has been introduced by Transport for Ireland in collaboration with NOW Group, the organisation behind JAM Card. TFI says the aim is to make bus journeys more accessible and comfortable for people who face communication barriers or simply prefer to communicate without speaking.

The card does not mean that every bus, stop or boarding location is accessible. It communicates the request; the suitability of the vehicle and boarding location still matters.

What Does JAM Stand For?

JAM stands for Just A Minute. The original JAM Card helps someone discreetly tell staff that they may need a little extra time to communicate or complete a task.

Transport for Ireland describes it as useful for people with autism, learning difficulties and other conditions that can create communication barriers. It can be used on public transport and in other customer-facing environments.

Who Might Find the ‘Ramp Please’ Card Useful?

The new message may help wheelchair users, people travelling with mobility equipment and other passengers who need the bus ramp but do not want to make a spoken request.

For example, it may be useful for someone who is non-speaking, uses alternative or augmentative communication, finds verbal requests difficult under pressure, or wants a simple and consistent way to communicate with a driver.

Some autistic travellers may find it easier to show a familiar message than to explain their needs while a bus is waiting. However, not every autistic person needs a ramp, and the card should be chosen according to the passenger’s actual requirements rather than their diagnosis.

How to Use the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card on a Bus

1. Have the physical Ramp Please card or the relevant message on your phone ready before the bus arrives.
2. Wait at a safe, visible boarding position and make sure the driver can see you.
3. Show the ‘Ramp Please’ message clearly to the driver.
4. Allow the driver to respond and deploy the ramp where it is safe and possible to do so.
5. Wait until the ramp is fully positioned and the driver indicates that you can board.

These are practical steps for using the message, not a guarantee of a particular boarding procedure. Follow the driver’s safety instructions and the operator’s accessibility rules. If you require additional assistance beyond ramp deployment, arrange or explain that separately.

The JAM Card Message Options in Ireland

The JAM card website currently lists the following messages available on JAM cards:

• “Please be patient, I am autistic”
• “Please be patient, I have autism”
• “Please be patient, I have a learning disability/difficulty”
• “Please be patient, I have a condition”
• “Please be patient, I have an intellectual disability”
• “Ramp Please”

and there are currently two options exlusive to Northern Ireland:

• “Please be patient, I have a dementia/a memory problem”
• “Please be patient, I have a chest/heart/stroke condition”

You can choose the message that best communicates what you need or use a mixture of more than one JAM card by utilising the app.

Where Can You Get a ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card?

According to Transport for Ireland, there are several ways to obtain or use a JAM Card.

Use the JAM Card App

The JAM Card app is available for Android and iOS. The Jam Card app allows users to choose their message for a digital version of the card, leave reviews and find JAM-friendly businesses. Look for the official JAM Card app in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Request a Physical Card

TFI says cards are available through participating Transport for Ireland operators and the TFI Customer Contact Centre. You can also request a card through the NOW Group JAM Card website.

The TFI Customer Contact Centre lists these telephone numbers:

• Within Ireland: 0818 294 015
• From outside Ireland: +353 1 575 6110

TFI also provides an online contact form and a list of operator locations where cards may be obtained. Check the official TFI JAM Card page for the current collection points and opening hours before making a special journey.

Which Transport Services Accept JAM Cards?

Transport for Ireland lists the general JAM Card scheme as usable on services including:

• Bus Éireann
• Dublin Bus
• Go-Ahead Ireland
• Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail)
• TFI Local Link
• Luas

There is an important distinction: the ‘Ramp Please’ message is specifically introduced for bus passengers. The fact that other transport operators participate in the wider JAM Card scheme does not mean the same ramp request applies to trains or trams. Those services have their own accessibility and boarding arrangements.

For more information about travelling around the country, see our accessible transport in Ireland guide, Luas travel assistance guide and explanation of Irish Rail Access Officers.

Bus Accessibility Contacts in the Republic of Ireland

Does the Card Guarantee That a Ramp Will Be Available?

No. The card is a communication tool, not a guarantee that a particular vehicle, stop or service can provide accessible boarding in every circumstance.

Passengers should still check whether the intended bus service is accessible, whether the stop has a suitable boarding area and whether their mobility equipment can be accommodated under the operator’s rules. If you depend on a ramp, contact the operator before travelling where possible.

The card is also not a ticket, a concessionary travel pass or a replacement for any other assistance arrangements that may be necessary.

How Is the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card Different From a Priority Seat Badge?

These schemes address different needs. The ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card communicates that a passenger wants the bus ramp lowered. A priority seating badge or message asks others to consider offering a seat to someone who needs one.

If standing during a journey is difficult, our guide to the ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ badge in Ireland explains that separate scheme. Some passengers may find more than one accessibility resource useful, depending on their circumstances.

Why a Non-Verbal Ramp Request Matters

For a passenger who has difficulty speaking in busy or stressful situations, asking for a ramp can involve more than a simple question. They may need time to find words, use a communication device or make themselves understood over traffic and other passengers.

A visible, standardised message can reduce the amount of explanation required. It also makes the request more specific than a general statement that someone has a disability.

That does not remove the need for drivers and transport operators to provide accessible services. The card should make communication easier, not place responsibility for accessibility entirely on the passenger.

Tips for Autistic Travellers and Families Using the Card

• Practise showing the card at home before using it on a busy bus.
• Keep the card somewhere easy to reach, rather than packed inside a bag.
• If using the app, open the message before the bus arrives so you do not have to search for it at the stop.
• Explain to a child what may happen after the driver sees the message, including waiting for the ramp to be deployed.
• Use a visual travel plan if changes or unfamiliar journeys are difficult.
• Check the accessibility of both your outward and return journeys.
• Have a backup way to communicate if your phone battery runs out or the driver cannot see the screen.

FAQ About the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card

What Is the ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card?

It is a JAM Card message introduced by Transport for Ireland and NOW Group that allows bus passengers to request the boarding ramp without speaking.

Do I Need to Have Autism to Use It?

No. The ‘Ramp Please’ message is intended for bus passengers who need the ramp and may face communication barriers or prefer a non-verbal request. It is not restricted to autistic passengers.

Can I Use the JAM Card on My Phone?

Yes. TFI says the JAM Card app is available for Android and iOS and allows users to select a message.

Where Can I Get a Physical JAM Card?

TFI lists participating transport operators, its Customer Contact Centre and NOW Group as ways to obtain a card. Check the official page for the current arrangements.

Does It Work on Dublin Bus?

Dublin Bus is among the TFI operators listed for JAM Card use. The ‘Ramp Please’ message is designed for bus passengers, although ramp deployment remains subject to safe and suitable boarding conditions.

Can I Use ‘Ramp Please’ on Luas or Irish Rail?

The wider JAM Card scheme can be used on Luas and Irish Rail, but TFI describes ‘Ramp Please’ specifically as a bus message. Check the separate accessibility arrangements for trains and trams.

Does the Card Guarantee an Accessible Bus?

No. It communicates your need for a ramp. You should still check the accessibility of the vehicle, route and stop.

Is a JAM Card the Same as a Travel Pass?

No. It is a communication aid, not a fare ticket or concessionary travel pass.

Official Information and Related Ireland Guides

For the latest details about messages, app downloads and where to obtain a card, use the Transport for Ireland JAM Card page or the NOW Group JAM Card website. TFI also links to videos showing passengers’ experiences with the wider JAM Card scheme.

• Accessible Transport in Ireland
• 14 Tips for Visiting Ireland With a Disability
• The ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ Badge in Ireland
• Luas Travel Assistance in Ireland
• What Is an Irish Rail Access Officer?

Source note: This article is based on Transport for Ireland’s official JAM Card information and personal experience.

Continue Planning Your Ireland Trip

• Spending time in the capital? Explore Dublin with autistic children
• Plan your onward journeys with our guide to accessible transport in Ireland
• Learn more about travelling to Ireland with prescription medication
• Read about special assistance at Dublin Airport to understand how to arrange airport support
• Familiarise yourself with disabled facilities at Dublin Airport before travelling
• Including Northern Ireland in your itinerary? Read our separate guide to Northern Ireland with autistic children

Continue Planning Your Europe Travel Itinerary With Children

• 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
• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines

Continue Planning Your 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

The post The ‘Ramp Please’ JAM Card in Ireland: How It Works appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travelling through London Stansted Airport (STN) with a disability, reduced mobility or an autistic child can be easier when you know where to find help. The airport has assisted travel services, accessible toilets, Changing Places facilities, quieter waiting areas and support for passengers with non-visible disabilities.

This guide covers the disabled facilities at London Stansted Airport, how to reach them and what to arrange before you travel. For the booking process and a breakdown of what to expect from airport assistance specifically, see our separate guide to special assistance at London Stansted Airport.

Quick Wins for Disabled Travellers at Stansted Airport

• Request airport assistance through your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before your flight.
• Find the landside Assistance Desk in Zone A, opposite check-in Zone 500.
• Collect a Sunflower Lanyard from Assistance Reception in Zone A if you have a non-visible disability.
• Look for the purple line and Assistance signs when approaching security.
• Plan for Changing Places facilities both before and after security.
• Watch the airport’s familiarisation videos before travelling if unfamiliar environments cause anxiety.
• Ask staff about the quieter seating options after security rather than assuming the main departure lounge is your only option.

Booking Special Assistance at London Stansted Airport

London Stansted asks passengers to book assistance through their airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure. The airport’s assistance provider is ABM Aviation. Assistance can cover the journey from an agreed meeting point through check-in, security and boarding, depending on your needs.

If you arrive without a booking, go to the Assistance Desk and explain what you need. Support may still be possible, but you should expect that waiting times could be longer. The assistance team may not stay beside you continuously throughout the airport.

For a fuller explanation of the booking process, read our Stansted Airport special assistance guide. You can also consult the airport’s official assistance booking information.

Finding the Assistance Desk and Help Points

The landside Assistance Desk is in Zone A of the terminal, opposite check-in Zone 500. Stansted describes it as a purple, clearly marked desk.

Help phones are available in Short Stay car parks and in Zones B and C of the terminal forecourt. If you are arriving by coach, there is a help point opposite coach bay 29. Travellers arriving by train who need support from the station to the terminal should arrange assistance with their rail provider. You can arrange rail assistance with Passanger Assist.

If walking or standing is difficult, arrange the point at which assistance should begin rather than assuming it starts at the check-in desk. The airport warns that there may be a wait at help points during busy periods.

Read our getting help at the airport guide for a breakdown of the types of help you can ask for and what to expect on the day or travel.

Accessibility Inside the Terminal

Stansted has accessible routes and lifts, but the distance you need to cover depends on your check-in area and departure gate. Some passengers will need assistance or mobility equipment to manage the journey comfortably.

The airport has worked with AccessAble to produce detailed access guides for different parts of the airport. These are particularly useful if you need information about routes, entrances or specific facilities before deciding whether you can travel independently. Find them through the airport’s AccessAble guide directory.

If you use your own wheelchair or powered mobility aid, notify your airline in advance and supply the information it requests about dimensions, weight and safe transport. Stansted says passengers can take their own mobility equipment to the departure gate, subject to the airline’s arrangements.

Accessible Toilets and Changing Places at Stansted Airport

Accessible toilets are among the airport’s passenger facilities. Stansted also confirms that Changing Places facilities are available on both sides of security, which is important for travellers who cannot use a standard accessible toilet.

The airport identifies the following Changing Places locations:

• Before security: landside arrivals, beside the toilets near Burger King.
• After security: beside the toilet facilities in the departure lounge.

Stansted states that these facilities operate with a RADAR key. If you need a hoist, an adult changing bench or particular transfer arrangements, check the equipment and access details with the airport before travelling.

You can contact Stansted Airport using the below details:

Live chat: From 9am until 5pm between Monday and Friday, you can contact Stansted Airport using live chat on their Contact Details webpage.

For the latest locations, see the airport’s facilities directory. If locating a suitable toilet is a concern throughout your trip, our guide to finding toilets while travelling may also help.

Hidden Disabilities and Sunflower Lanyards

London Stansted participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard scheme. A Sunflower Lanyard can discreetly indicate to trained staff that you may need additional time, communication support or help navigating the airport.

You can collect a lanyard from Assistance Reception in Zone A without booking the full assisted travel service. However, a lanyard does not automatically arrange wheelchair assistance, an escort or a faster security queue. For help throughout the journey, book assistance with your airline. This is the only way to make an official request for help at the airport to ensure you get the support you need on the day.

Read more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard and the airport’s non-visible disability support.

Security Screening and Additional Support

Stansted has a designated assistance lane at security. Look for Assistance signage and the purple line on the floor. If you need to use the lane, speak to a member of staff.

Security screening still applies to passengers receiving assistance. Tell staff before screening if you cannot stand, need help with mobility equipment, have pain or sensory sensitivities, or require additional explanation. Stansted confirms that private searches can be arranged if you do not want an additional hand search in public.

For children who find touch, noise or unexpected instructions difficult, prepare a simple explanation of what will happen: waiting, placing belongings in trays, walking or moving through screening and collecting belongings again. The airport’s security assistance guide explains the available arrangements.

Quiet Areas and Sensory Considerations

The main departure lounge can be busy, noisy and visually intense. Stansted identifies two potentially quieter waiting options after security:

• Assisted Travel waiting area: on the route towards gates 40–59. The airport describes it as relatively secluded, although it remains a public space.
• Additional seating area: follow the shops past Itsu to the signposted area on a lower level, accessible by lift as well as escalator. Flight information screens are available there.

Neither should be assumed to be a silent, private sensory-friendly area. Ask staff which space is suitable for your needs and whether you can use it while waiting for assistance.

Stansted also provides airport familiarisation videos, including material about autism and non-visible disabilities. These can help you prepare visual schedules, explain security and discuss the journey with an autistic child. Find them through the airport’s assisted travel tips and familiarisation videos.

Noise-reducing headphones, a familiar activity, snacks suitable for your family and a visual plan can be useful while waiting. Keep essentials in hand luggage so they are available if your gate or boarding time changes.

Boarding and Arriving With Assistance

Depending on the aircraft stand and your individual needs, the assistance team may use specialist transport or boarding equipment. Stansted says only one accompanying family member can travel with an assisted passenger on an assistance minibus or ambulift. Families travelling together should discuss this limitation in advance.

On arrival at Stansted, passengers with pre-booked assistance may be asked to remain seated until other passengers have left the aircraft. The assistance team can support the journey through passport control, baggage reclaim and towards onward transport. A dedicated assistance lane is available at passport control.

If you are travelling with a child who struggles with separation, ask the airline and assistance provider how the family can stay together during boarding and disembarkation. Do not assume every family member can accompany the assisted passenger on specialist vehicles.

Accessible Parking and Drop-Off at Stansted Airport

Blue Badge parking is available in several airport car parks. Stansted lists spaces in the Orange, Green, Blue and Yellow Short Stay car parks, Zone L of Mid Stay and Zone Q of Long Stay. The Mid Stay and Long Stay car parks use accessible transfer buses.

For drop-off, dedicated Blue Badge spaces are in Zone C of Express Set-Down, near the terminal Assistance Desk. A help point is also available there. Express Set-Down charges and time limits apply, so check the latest rules before your journey.

If you need assistance from your vehicle, use the designated help point and allow time for the team to reach you. Check the airport’s current Blue Badge parking and drop-off guidance before booking parking.

Accessible Trains, Coaches and Taxis

Stansted Airport has a rail station and coach station serving the terminal. If you need support getting from the train station into the airport, arrange assistance with your train operator. The airport recommends using station lifts because the ramp can be steep.

Coach passengers can use the help point opposite bay 29 to request assistance. If you are arranging a taxi, confirm vehicle accessibility and the meeting point with the operator before travelling.

Check the airport’s accessible transport guidance and our guide to London’s six airports when planning the wider journey.

Assistance Dogs and Relief Areas

Stansted lists two assistance animal relief areas. One is before security at the far end of the terminal forecourt and can be reached without an escort. The other is after security near the APV building and requires an Assisted Travel team member to escort you.

Tell your airline in advance if you are travelling with an assistance dog and check the airline’s requirements and the entry rules for your destination. Travelling with an assistance dog usually means that the airline will add the ESAN code to your travel booking – you can learn more about the ESAN code in our guide and more about different assistance codes in our comparision guide.

Contact London Stansted Airport About Accessibility

For assistance-specific questions, Stansted identifies ABM Aviation as its provider. You can contact ABM Aviation on the below details:

Email: EmailUsForConfidence@ABM.com

Telephone: 08081 697031

For bookings and changes to assistance, contact your airline or travel agent. The airport’s central Assisted Travel information hub brings together the latest official guidance.

Disabled Facilities at London Stansted Airport: FAQs

Does Stansted Airport Have Changing Places Toilets?

Yes. The airport lists Changing Places facilities in landside arrivals near Burger King and in the airside departure lounge. Stansted says they are RADAR-key operated. Confirm equipment and access arrangements if you need particular facilities.

Can Autistic Passengers Get Help at Stansted Airport?

Yes. Passengers with non-visible disabilities can request a Sunflower lanyard and can book airport assistance through their airline. Explain the specific help required, rather than relying on a diagnosis alone.

Is There a Quiet Area at Stansted Airport?

The airport identifies a relatively secluded assisted travel waiting area towards gates 40–59 and an additional seating area away from the main departure lounge. These are shared areas, not guaranteed silent rooms.

Where Is the Special Assistance Desk at Stansted?

The landside Assistance Desk is in Zone A, opposite check-in Zone 500. There are also help points at selected car parks and forecourt locations.

Do I Need to Book Assistance Before Flying?

Stansted asks passengers to book through their airline or travel agent at least 48 hours in advance. You can still ask for help on arrival without a booking, but support may take longer to arrange.

Disabled facilities at London Stansted Airport can make travel more manageable, but it is worth checking which services meet your specific needs before departure. Use the airport’s official guidance to confirm facilities and book assistance early if you need it.

For more planning help, read our guides to special assistance at UK airports, airport and airline assistance codes and disabled facilities and airport assistance guides.

Continue Planning Your Europe Travel Itinerary With Children

• 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
• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines

Continue Planning Your 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 Our Guides

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

The post Disabled Facilities at London Stansted Airport appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travelling through Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) with a disability, reduced mobility or an autistic child can involve extra planning. The airport offers free passenger assistance, dedicated assistance rooms, accessible routes and support for people with non-visible disabilities. Knowing where to go and what to request can make the journey more predictable.

This guide covers the disabled facilities at Venice Marco Polo Airport, including assistance points, security, toilets, parking, water transport and practical considerations for neurodivergent families.

Quick Wins for Visiting Venice Marco Polo With a Disability

• Request assistance through your airline when booking, or at least 48 hours before departure.
• Find the PRM call point nearest your arrival point before travelling.
• For autism-related support, ask your airline about the DPNA assistance code.
• Use the airport’s autism familiarisation materials to prepare for the journey.
• Check the accessible route from the terminal to your bus, taxi or water transport.
• Confirm any specialist toileting, lifting or changing requirements directly with the airport.

Special Assistance at Venice Marco Polo Airport

Venice Airport provides free assistance for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility (PRM) under European passenger-rights rules. Book through your airline when you reserve your flight, or at least 48 hours before departure. Late requests may lead to delays. You can also make an assistance request via the PRM assist app but you should follow this up with a conversation with your airline to explain your needs in more detail.

Assistance covers different needs, including limited walking ability (WCHR), difficulty using stairs (WCHS), passengers requiring full mobility assistance (WCHC), visual impairment (BLND), hearing impairment (DEAF) and intellectual or behavioural disabilities (DPNA). Each type of assistance is assigned a four-letter code. You can learn more about different airline assistance codes in our guide. Explain the help you actually need to the airline rather than relying on the code alone.

Some of the disabled facilities at Venice Airport that the airport lists are wheelchairs, ambulifts and accessible transfer vehicles among its accessibility equipment. Assistance is available for departing passengers and for arriving passengers travelling from the aircraft to designated drop-off points.

For more detail, read our guide to special assistance at Venice Marco Polo Airport and the Italy airport assistance contacts. The airport’s official PRM information explains the current arrangements.

Where to Find Assistance Points

When considering accessibility at Venice Marco Polo Airport it is important to be able to locate an assistance point so your arranged assistance can begin when you arrive.

The airport identifies PRM call points at the terminal’s ground-floor Entrance 1, first-floor Entrance 7, the second floor of P1 near the car rental area, short-stay parking and marina docks 2 and 13. You can also report to check-in, the information desk or the Special Assistance Lounge.

Use the interactive map of Venice Marco Polo Airport to locate the assistance help points.

According to the airport, passengers using call points should arrive 120 minutes before domestic and Schengen flights or 180 minutes before non-Schengen flights. If reporting at check-in, its minimum reporting times are 60 and 90 minutes respectively. Always follow any earlier reporting time supplied by your airline.

Accessibility at Venice Marco Polo Inside the Terminal

Venice Airport provides accessible wayfinding and routes for passengers who prefer to move independently. In 2026, the airport introduced interactive information kiosks before security, including a mode that suggests routes avoiding stairs and architectural barriers. Two kiosks are on the ground floor and two on the first floor; routes can also be transferred to a smartphone using a QR code.

There are designated assistance areas and seating for passengers in Venice Marco Polo with a disability, such as reduced mobility, near boarding gates. However, the walking distance to your gate can vary. If you cannot comfortably cover long distances, arrange mobility assistance rather than assuming your gate will be nearby.

The airport’s interactive wayfinding information explains these features.

You can also set up Google Maps to take accessible routes for exploring Italy outside of the airports.

Accessible Toilets and Changing Facilities

Before travelling, check the airport’s current terminal map for accessible toilet locations along your route. If you need an adult-sized changing bench, hoist or a Changing Places-style facility, contact the airport directly to confirm whether suitable equipment is available as the airport website and map do not clarify what equipment is available in the accessible bathrooms.

You can contact Venice Marco Polo Airport with the below details:

Telephone: +39 041 2609260

Email: info@veneziaairport.it

For families managing continence needs, it can help to locate toilets before security and near the departure gate. Our guide to finding a toilet while travelling includes additional planning resources.

Hidden Disabilities and Autism Support

Venice Marco Polo Airport participates in the Italian aviation authority ENAC’s ‘Autism – Travelling through the Airport’ initiative. Its autism guidance describes a welcome service for autistic adults and children, with the DPNA code used for passengers requiring this type of assistance.

The airport also provides autism-focused familiarisation resources, including a presentation about the airport journey. These can help families explain check-in, security and boarding in advance.

Venice Airport’s Inclusive Airport programme recognises non-visible disabilities and describes the use of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard alongside dedicated assistance rooms with the Sala Amica name, clearer wayfinding and access to the Family Lane at security. A lanyard does not replace booking formal PRM assistance when you need an escort or mobility support.

Read the airport’s official autism guidance and non-visible disabilities information before travelling.

Security and Boarding

Security can be difficult for travellers who struggle with crowds, waiting or unexpected touch. The airport says autistic passengers can use priority security lanes even without activating the full PRM service, or in other words, without formally booking special assistance. Its wider accessibility programme also describes easier access through the Family Lane.

If you or your child need an explanation before a search, additional processing time or assistance handling mobility equipment, explain this to staff before screening begins.

Discuss boarding requirements with your airline in advance. Some travellers benefit from boarding early; others prefer to wait until the queue has cleared. Ask which approach can be accommodated on your flight.

Seating, Special Assistance Rooms and Sensory Considerations

If you are flying from Venice Marco Polo with a disability you can make use of the Special Assistance Lounge near the departures check-in area, and airport service information also identifies a dedicated room after security too. In Italy the special assistance services are known as Sala Amica, so the special assistance lounges often have the name Sala Amica room or Sala Amica lounge. The Inclusive Airport programme describes improvements to the Special Assistance Rooms at Venice Airport.

These spaces should not automatically be treated as bookable sensory rooms or guaranteed silent areas. If you need a low-stimulation waiting environment, ask the assistance team what is available on your travel date and whether you can access it.

For an autistic child, consider headphones, familiar snacks, visual schedules and a simple explanation of what happens next. Gate areas may become noisy shortly before boarding, so check the gate information while waiting in a less busy part of the terminal if appropriate.

Accessible Parking and Drop-Off

The airport offers free parking in designated spaces to eligible holders of a valid European disabled parking permit (CUDE). The permit holder must be present in the vehicle. Parking spaces cannot be reserved.

To validate the concession, take the parking ticket, original valid permit and the permit holder’s identification to the information desk in Arrivals or Departures, or the ticket office in P1. The airport states that a Disability Card is not a substitute for the parking permit and that parking already paid for will not be refunded.

Read the official disabled parking rules before travelling, particularly if you hold a permit issued outside Italy.

Getting To and From Venice Airport

Venice is unusual because journeys may involve road transport and water transport. The airport lists PRM call points at its marina and a floating dock among its accessibility infrastructure. This does not mean that every waterbus, boat or transfer will be suitable for every wheelchair or mobility aid.

Confirm boarding arrangements, wheelchair dimensions, transfer assistance and your arrival stop with the transport operator before booking. A step-free route at the airport does not guarantee that the rest of your journey through Venice will be step-free.

For planning beyond the terminal, read Is Venice Accessible? A Guide for Disabled Travellers.

Food, Shops and Other Facilities

The airport has food outlets, shops, free terminal Wi-Fi and device charging points. If you are travelling with allergies or a child who eats a limited range of foods, check opening times and food options in advance and carry suitable permitted snacks. Retail areas and queues may be busy at peak travel times.

For essential medication or medical equipment, keep the airline informed of what you are carrying and check the relevant security requirements before departure. You may be entitled to travel with medical luggage if certain medical equipment or medications are essential.

FAQ About Disabled Facilities at Venice Marco Polo Airport

Is Special Assistance Free at Venice Marco Polo Airport?

Yes. The airport states that its PRM assistance service is free of charge. Request it through your airline, ideally at least 48 hours before departure. Read more about it in our guide to special assistance at Venice Marco Polo Airport.

Does Venice Airport Support Autistic Passengers?

Yes. It participates in ENAC’s autism airport initiative and offers familiarisation resources and a welcome service. Passengers requiring formal support can ask their airline about DPNA assistance.

Can Autistic Travellers Use Priority Security?

The airport states that autistic passengers may use priority security lanes even without activating full PRM assistance. Check with airport staff on arrival for the appropriate lane.

Does Venice Airport Have a Changing Places Toilet?

The official sources reviewed do not confirm a fully equipped Changing Places-style room. Contact the airport directly if an adult changing bench or hoist is essential.

Is Disabled Parking Free at Venice Airport?

Eligible holders of a valid CUDE disabled parking permit can use designated spaces free of charge, subject to the airport’s identification and validation rules.

If you’re flying through Venice Marco Polo Airport, start by thinking about which parts of the journey might be hardest for you or your child. That could be standing in a long queue, finding your way through a busy terminal or coping with the noise and unfamiliar steps at security. Being specific about what would help makes it easier to explain your needs when you request special assistance.

For families travelling with an autistic child, it can also help to talk through the airport journey in order, from arriving at the terminal to boarding the plane. If you’re flying out of Venice and would prefer to see the airport beforehand, take a look at the airport’s familiarisation visits.

You don’t have to plan every minute. Knowing where to ask for help, what to expect next and what you’ll do if plans change can take some of the pressure off on travel day.

The disabled facilities at Venice Airport and their procedures can change. Check the airport’s current assistance guidance and confirm specialist requirements directly before you travel.

Continue Planning Your Italy Itinerary With Kids

• Start at the beginning by learning how to plan a trip to Italy with autistic children
• Head to our guide about accessible transport in Italy to plan how you’ll get around
• Explore how it would be to visit both Rome with autistic children and Vatican City with kids
• Learn more about planning a trip to Bologna with autistic children
• Head to our Milan with kids guide to start planning a trip in Northern Italy
• Heading to the South of Italy? Learn about visiting Bari with autistic children
• Read about how to plan a Venice trip with autistic children and if Venice is accessible
• Before using trains in Italy, it is worth learning how the Sala Blu accessibility service works
• Travelling Italy with medication? Learn about bringing prescribed medication into Italy

Continue Planning Your Europe Trip With Kids

• Start with planning your overall Europe family trip, including flights, transport, and more
• Looking for an easier first-time Europe destination? Consider visiting Denmark with kids
• Prefer beaches and slower-paced travel? Find out more about Greece with children
• Discover what to expect in Paris with autistic children, including transport, attractions and more
• Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and more

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 Our Guides

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

The post Disabled Facilities at Venice Marco Polo Airport appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Surat Thani International Airport (URT) is an important gateway to southern Thailand and onward journeys to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. For disabled travellers, autistic passengers and families travelling with mobility equipment, it is useful to know which facilities are documented and which arrangements need checking before departure.

This guide focuses on the physical facilities and accessibility of Surat Thani Airport, including lifts, toilets, terminal access, waiting areas and onward transport. For assistance with check-in, security and boarding, read our separate special assistance at Surat Thani Airport guide.

Important: publicly available, airport-specific accessibility information is limited. Where a facility’s precise location, measurements or availability cannot be confirmed, this article explains what to ask rather than promising it will be suitable.

Surat Thani Airport Accessibility at a Glance

Terminal Layout and Getting Around

Surat Thani is a regional airport rather than one of Thailand’s largest international hubs. Surat Thani airport has a terminal with two levels and areas for arrivals and departures. However, a smaller terminal does not necessarily mean every route is step-free or every journey is easier for someone with mobility or sensory needs.

If you use a wheelchair, walking aid, disability pushchair or mobility scooter, ask the airport or airline about the route between the vehicle drop-off point, check-in, security, departure gate and aircraft. Also ask about the arrival route from the aircraft to baggage reclaim and the terminal exit.

Airport layouts can change during improvement works, and older online photographs may not show current routes.

For general routing via the most accessible option, refer to our guide on how to set up Google Maps accessibility feature.

Are There Lifts at Surat Thani Airport?

Yes, passenger information sources describe a lift for travellers with reduced mobility. The World Travel Guide airport listing specifically mentions an elevator, as does Vietjet Air’s Surat Thani airport overview.

Those sources do not establish the lift’s exact location, door width, internal dimensions, operating hours or suitability for a large powered wheelchair. If you need the lift to reach a particular area, confirm those details with the airport before travelling.

You can contact Surat Thani Airport using the below details:

Phone: +66 77 441 230

Email: info.urt@airportthai.co.th or surat@airports.go.th

Accessible Toilets at Surat Thani Airport

Third-party passenger guides, including Kupi’s airport overview, describe toilets intended for travellers with reduced mobility.

However, publicly available information does not reliably establish the number or exact location of accessible toilets at Surat Thani Airport. It also does not confirm door widths, transfer space, grab-rail arrangements, emergency alarms or whether an adult-sized changing bench and hoist are available.

If you need particular facilities, contact the airport and ask:

• Where are the accessible toilets before and after security?
• Is there a step-free route to each toilet?
• Is there sufficient space for a wheelchair and accompanying carer?
• Which side of the toilet is available for transfer?
• Are there grab rails and an emergency assistance alarm?
• Is an adult changing facility or hoist available?

Do not assume a toilet marked accessible will meet every person’s needs. If a toilet is essential before a long bus or ferry transfer, plan time to use the facilities before leaving the airport. You can also use our guide to learn how to locate toilets no matter where you are.

Wheelchair Assistance and Aircraft Boarding

Wheelchair assistance is different from the airport’s fixed facilities. It may include help travelling between check-in, security, the gate and the aircraft, depending on the arrangements agreed with your airline.

Request assistance through your airline as early as possible, preferably when booking. Explain whether the passenger can walk short distances, climb aircraft steps, transfer to an aisle chair or requires full assistance. You can also make an assistance request in the PRM assist app but follow this up with an email or call to the airline to explain your needs in detail.

Do not assume an airbridge or aircraft boarding lift will be available for your particular flight. Ask the airline what equipment and staff will be used, especially if the passenger cannot use stairs. If travelling with a powered wheelchair, provide the airline with its dimensions, weight and battery information as requested.

Our Surat Thani Airport special assistance guide explains how to request support, including help for passengers with non-visible disabilities.

Accessible Parking, Drop-Off and Pick-Up

Surat Thani Airport has vehicle access and parking outside the terminal, but the current locations and number of designated accessible parking spaces could not be verified from authoritative airport-specific information.

Before arriving by taxi, private transfer or adapted vehicle, ask where the closest suitable drop-off point is and whether the route into the terminal is step-free. If you need room to unload a wheelchair, ramp or other mobility equipment, explain this to the transport provider in advance.

For arrivals, arrange a clear meeting point with your driver and allow extra time for baggage and mobility equipment to be returned.

Facilities for Autistic Travellers and People With Sensory Needs

There is no reliable airport-specific confirmation of a dedicated sensory room, autism familiarisation programme or guaranteed quiet waiting room at Surat Thani Airport.

Passengers may encounter queues, announcements, conversations, rolling luggage and busy boarding areas. Noise levels and crowding can change depending on flight schedules.

Useful preparations include:

• Looking at the travel sequence before leaving home: arrival, check-in, security, waiting, boarding and flight.
• Keeping headphones, communication aids and familiar comfort items accessible.
• Explaining sensory or communication needs when requesting airline assistance.
• Asking staff where the least busy suitable waiting area is.
• Checking whether a companion can remain with the passenger during assistance procedures.
• Allowing time for changes to boarding arrangements or flight delays.

A Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard can communicate that someone may need extra understanding, but do not assume it provides priority security, a dedicated waiting space or a particular assistance service at Surat Thani Airport.

For broader preparation, see our Thailand with autistic children guide.

Facilities for Travellers With Visual or Hearing Impairments

Detailed, airport-specific information about tactile paving, Braille signs, hearing loops, visual paging systems and accessible emergency announcements could not be confirmed.

If you require assistance reading departure information, navigating the terminal or understanding announcements, contact your airline ahead of travel. Ask how important gate changes and boarding announcements will be communicated, and whether staff can guide you between key points.

Travellers with service animals should check the airline’s rules and applicable Thai entry requirements separately. Do not assume a dedicated animal relief area is available at the airport. For more information about travelling with a service animal, read our guide to the ESAN airline code.

Food, Seating and Other Passenger Facilities

If you need a particular safe food, suitable seating or access to drinking water, plan ahead. Bring permitted food and essential medication in your hand luggage, and check current airline and security rules for liquids and medical supplies. You can learn more about travelling with extra medical supplies in our medical luggage guide.

For a passenger who cannot stand in a queue for long periods, ask the airline what practical assistance is available rather than assuming all counters offer priority service.

Accessible Transport From Surat Thani Airport

Many travellers use Surat Thani Airport as the starting point for a journey to Surat Thani town or the ferry piers serving Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. These journeys may involve a road transfer followed by a ferry.

Airport wheelchair assistance does not automatically extend to buses, taxis, piers or ferries. Check each part of the journey separately.

Before booking a transfer, ask whether:

• The vehicle has a ramp or lift if the passenger must remain in their wheelchair.
• There is adequate room for a folded wheelchair, disability pushchair or mobility scooter.
• The driver can assist with luggage or mobility equipment.
• There are steps at the ferry pier or on the vessel.
• Accessible toilets are available on the transfer route and ferry.
• Boarding assistance needs to be reserved with the ferry operator.

Accessible vehicles may require advance arrangement. Do not assume that a standard shared minibus or combined bus-and-ferry ticket is suitable for a wheelchair user.

For wider planning, read our accessible transport in Thailand guide and Koh Samui with autistic children guide.

How to Contact Surat Thani Airport

If you need precise details about accessible toilets, lifts, boarding equipment or terminal routes, contact the airport directly. You can use the below information to contact Surat Thani Airport:

Telephone: +66 77 441 230

Email: surat@aviation.go.th

When contacting the airport, describe the equipment or adjustment needed. For example, ask whether there is a step-free route from the terminal entrance to the gate, or whether an accessible toilet has enough turning space for a particular wheelchair. Specific questions are more useful than asking whether the airport is generally accessible.

FAQ About Disabled Facilities at Surat Thani Airport

Is Surat Thani Airport Wheelchair Accessible?

Passenger guides describe accessibility features including a lift, and airline assistance can be requested. However, a fully step-free route for every passenger journey and the suitability of individual facilities have not been independently verified. Contact the airport and airline with your requirements.

Does Surat Thani Airport Have Accessible Toilets?

Third-party airport information reports accessible toilets, but their precise locations and specifications could not be confirmed. Ask the airport before travelling if you need particular toilet facilities.

Is There a Lift at Surat Thani Airport?

Yes. Passenger information sources describe an elevator for travellers with reduced mobility. Its dimensions and exact location should be checked with the airport.

Does Surat Thani Airport Have a Changing Places Toilet?

No reliable published confirmation of a Changing Places-style toilet, adult changing bench or ceiling hoist was found. Contact the airport directly if you need these facilities.

Is There a Sensory Room at Surat Thani Airport?

A dedicated sensory room could not be verified. Travellers needing a quieter waiting area should ask airport staff about suitable options, without assuming that a separate room is available.

Can I Request Wheelchair Assistance?

Yes, request wheelchair or mobility assistance through your airline. Explain your transfer and boarding needs before travel so the airline can confirm what support is available.

Is Transport From the Airport to Koh Samui Wheelchair Accessible?

Accessibility depends on the road transfer, ferry pier and ferry operator. Confirm the vehicle, boarding method and facilities for each leg before buying a combined ticket.

How Can I Confirm Current Disabled Facilities?

Contact Surat Thani Airport for fixed facilities and your airline for assistance on the day of travel. Ask about the exact routes, dimensions and equipment you need.

Useful Resources

• Special Assistance at Surat Thani Airport
• Special Assistance Contacts for Thailand’s Airports
• Accessible Transport in Thailand
• World Travel Guide – Surat Thani Airport Facilities
• Vietjet Air – Surat Thani Airport Overview

Information reviewed in November 2026. Published information about the airport’s individual accessibility features is limited, and some descriptions come from third-party passenger guides rather than a current airport accessibility statement. Confirm essential facilities directly with Surat Thani Airport and your airline before travelling.

Continue Planning Your Trip to Thailand

• Heading to Pattaya? Our guide breaks down what to expect in Pattaya with kids
• Fancy the North? Consider visiting Chiang Mai with kids
• Ready for island vibes? Consider visiting Koh Samui with autistic children
• Here is a list of all of the special assistance departments for Thailand’s airports with direct links
• Coming to Thailand with medication? Learn how to bring medication into Thailand legally
• Learn what over-the-counter medication you can grab in Thailand without a prescription
• Plan ahead for your trip to Thailand by completing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before you land
• Learn more about accessible transport options in Thailand
• Learn more about travelling by train in Thailand with a disability
• Confused about the stamps in 7Eleven? Here is a detailed guide to collecting 7Eleven stamps

For a full list of posts about visiting Thailand with autistic children, check out our Thailand archives.

Continue Planning Your Asia Itinerary With Kids

• Start with planning your overall Asia family trip, including flights, pacing, transport and choosing destinations that suit your child’s needs
• Looking for easier first-time Asia destinations? Consider visiting Japan with kids for clean transport, family facilities and predictable routines
• Prefer beaches and slower travel? Find out more about Cambodia with children for beautiful islands, nature and flexible family days out
• Planning big city adventures? Discover what to expect in Hong Kong with autistic children
• Hoping to Island hop? Learn more about visiting the Philippines with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your 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 Our Guides

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

The post Disabled Facilities at Surat Thani Airport: A Guide appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

When travelling through Italy, you may see signs for Sala Amica or Sale Amica. These are dedicated airport waiting areas associated with assistance for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. They can offer somewhere to wait away from parts of the main terminal, but their facilities and access rules vary from airport to airport.

Which Italian airports actually have a Sala Amica waiting room? This guide lists airports where the waiting room is confirmed to be a Sala Amica room in airport-published information, explains the locations where they are available and highlights the difference between an assistance waiting room and a dedicated sensory room.

There is no single national directory guaranteeing that every Italian airport has a Sala Amica waiting room. Some airports provide equivalent special-assistance facilities under different names. The list below is therefore a verified selection, not an exhaustive list of every accessible airport waiting room in Italy.

Italian Airports With Confirmed Sala Amica Waiting Rooms

The following airports explicitly refer to Sala Amica waiting rooms on their own websites, service information or airport documents. Details can change, particularly after renovations, so check with the airport before your trip.

The evidence and official links for each location appear below. A room being listed does not automatically mean it is open at every hour, available to all passengers or suitable for every sensory need. Check directly with the airport and confirm wheter you need a seperate booking to use the Sala Amica waiting room.

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Milan Malpensa’s airport regulations identify a main Sala Amica lounge in Terminal 1, on the departures level near check-in area 3 and entrance door 13, with additional lounges in the boarding areas. They also identify a Sala Amica room in Terminal 2, on the ground floor after security.

SEA, the airport operator, reported completing a new Terminal 2 Sala Amica in 2025. This means older terminal maps or descriptions may not reflect the latest arrangement.

The Sala Amica lounge is open 24 hours a day and you can contact the airport about the Sala Amica room using the following details:

Telephone: +39 0274862243

Email: salaamica.hnd@seamilano.eu

Official sources: Malpensa airport regulations and SEA’s 2025 sustainability statement.

Milan Linate Airport (LIN)

Milan Linate also has Sala Amica waiting areas. SEA’s 2025 sustainability statement refers to a planned full refurbishment of two Sala Amica lounges, together with improvements to nearby toilet facilities.

Because renovations can affect access and room locations, confirm the current arrangements with the airport’s assistance service rather than relying on an older map. Current documentation states that one of the Sala Amica rooms is on the first floor next to check-in area 1.

Official source: SEA’s 2025 sustainability statement and the Milan Linate Airport Service Charter on page 5.

Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY)

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ)

Bologna Airport’s current dedicated-services page identifies three Sala Amica locations:

• One on the first floor, before security.
• One on the first floor, after security in the Schengen boarding area.
• One on the ground floor, airside near the boarding pier.

The airport’s autism travel guide describes a Sala Amica as a separate waiting room with comfortable seating, tables and a television, where the surrounding noise may be reduced compared with the main departure area. This is the airport’s description, not a guarantee of silence or access for every passenger.

Bologna Airport also reported completing a new Sala Amica facility during 2025, so ask which room will be available for your particular journey.

Official sources: Bologna Airport – Dedicated Services and Autism – A Journey Across the Airport.

For wider information, see our special assistance at Bologna Airport guide and Bologna Airport disabled facilities guide.

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

Catania Airport confirms two Sala Amica waiting rooms: one in the departures hall, opposite the GH and Aviation Services ticket counters, and another in the boarding area.

These rooms are part of the airport’s service for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. The airport does not describe both rooms as dedicated sensory spaces, so ask about their suitability if you need a particularly quiet environment.

Official source: Catania Airport – Passengers With Reduced Mobility.

Naples International Airport (NAP)

Naples Airport confirms two staffed Sala Amica waiting rooms: one in the check-in hall before security and another after security. They are intended for passengers receiving special assistance while waiting for boarding.

The airport’s 2025 service charter also describes dedicated facilities and toilets associated with the rooms.

Naples advises passengers using special assistance to arrive at the time communicated by their airline and, in any event, at least two hours before a domestic or Schengen flight and three hours before a non-Schengen flight. Follow the airport’s latest instructions for your booking.

Official source: Naples Airport – Special Assistance.

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB)

Olbia Airport describes a Sala Amica in the departures area near the security checkpoints. The airport states that it opens two hours before flight departure and provides staff assistance, accessible toilets, flight information monitors and a television.

Notably, Olbia says the room includes a waiting area designed for autistic passengers, with attention to sounds and colours. The airport also offers autism familiarisation information and visits.

Official sources: Olbia Airport – Special Assistance Waiting Room and Olbia Airport – Autism Travelling Through the Airport.

Brindisi Airport (BDS)

Brindisi Airport refers to a Courtesy Lounge, also called Sala Amica, for disabled passengers in the departures area. It is operated by specialised staff. The airport also mentions tactile guidance to assist blind and partially sighted passengers in reaching the room.

The airport’s published regulations describe the lounge as being on the landside of the terminal, meaning before security.

Official source: Brindisi Airport – Special Assistance.

Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (QSR)

Salerno Airport’s special-assistance guide identifies two Sala Amica lounges on the ground floor:

• Before security, near check-in desk 55.
• After security, near gate A1.

The published guide lists qualified staff, accessible toilets, flight monitors and drinks or snack vending machines.

Official source: Salerno Airport – Special Assistance Guide (PDF).

Trieste Airport (TRS)

Trieste Airport confirms a Sala Amica in the public area of the terminal. It is a dedicated meeting and waiting room for passengers with reduced mobility and has a telephone or assistance call facility.

Trieste also describes separate assistance waiting points near boarding gates. These are not necessarily enclosed Sala Amica rooms, so distinguish the main room from other reserved seating areas.

Official source: Trieste Airport – Passengers With Reduced Mobility.

Turin Airport (TRN)

Turin Airport’s published PRM information identifies a landside Sala Amica on the departures floor.

A 2024 airport consultation document also described an additional airside Sala Amica near gate 14 as nearing completion, with work expected to finish by the end of that year. Current airport guidance on the Turin Airport website does describe two Sala Amica waiting areas as being available.

Official source: Turin Airport – PRM Consultation Document (PDF) and the Courtesy Rooms page of Turin Airports website.

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)

Genoa Airport announced the opening of a new Sala Amica in February 2026. The airport describes a dedicated space for passengers requiring assistance, with a dedicated check-in service, access to Fast Track, video and audio systems, multimedia tablets and an accessible toilet.

The airport also states that new mothers wishing to breastfeed can use the Sala Amica free of charge. This is a specific local arrangement, not a general rule for Sala Amica rooms across Italy.

The Genoa Airport Service Charter from 2020 includes a map that points out where to find the Sala Amica room. Confirm the details of the waiting area before you travel if you will rely on using that space during your time at Genoa Airport.

You can contact Genoa Airport with the below details:

E-mail: info@airport.genova.it

WhatsApp: +39 329 6569494

Official source: Genoa Airport – Announcement of the New Sala Amica.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

Venice Marco Polo Airport’s published terminal map includes a Sala Amica symbol. This confirms that the airport has identified a room by that name in its official mapping.

However, the map is dated 2023. Confirm the current location, eligibility and access arrangements directly with the airport before travelling.

You can contact Venice Marco Polo airport using the below information:

Telephone number: +39 041 2609260

Email: info@veneziaairport.it

Official source: Venice Marco Polo Airport – Terminal Map (PDF).

For assistance arrangements at Venice, see our special assistance at Venice Marco Polo Airport guide.

What About Rome Fiumicino, Rome Ciampino and Other Italian Airports?

Airports such as Rome Fiumicino and Rome Ciampino provide assistance services for disabled passengers, but we were unable to confirm if they have dedicated Sala Amica waiting areas.

That does not mean these airports lack accessible waiting facilities. They may use different names, operate open assistance areas or provide other arrangements. Similarly, an airport participating in ENAC’s autism travel initiative does not automatically have a Sala Amica room.

For a broader directory, see our Italian airport special-assistance contacts.

Are Sala Amica Rooms the Same as Sensory Rooms?

No. Sala Amica generally means a dedicated assistance waiting room rather than a purpose-built sensory room. It may be quieter than the main terminal, but it can still have announcements, televisions, other passengers and staff activity.

Some airports explicitly describe additional autism-oriented facilities. For example, Milan Bergamo mentions an area specifically for autistic people, while Olbia describes a waiting area designed with attention to the sensory needs of autistic travellers. Those features should not be assumed at every Sala Amica.

If you need a low-stimulation environment, ask whether the room has dimmable lighting, a separate quiet area, controllable television sound, limited occupancy or space for a companion. Do not rely on the name alone.

For more general guidance, see our guide to travelling with autism or an autistic child.

Who Can Use a Sala Amica?

Sala Amica rooms are generally associated with the airport’s assistance service for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. Eligibility and the way passengers are escorted to the room differ by airport.

An autistic passenger may be able to use a Sala Amica as part of arranged special assistance, but access is not necessarily automatic. Ask the airport and airline about the traveller’s individual needs, whether a companion can enter and whether a particular room is available before or after security.

For general advice, see our airport special assistance for hidden disabilities guide.

How to Request Sala Amica Access

1. Request assistance through the airline: explain the support required, ideally at least 48 hours before departure.
2. Check the airport’s assistance page: identify the relevant meeting point and ask whether Sala Amica access is part of the service.
3. Confirm the terminal and location: some airports have rooms on both sides of security, while others have only one.
4. Describe sensory needs: if the passenger needs a quieter environment, say so rather than waiting to find out on the day that the room is not quiet.
5. Ask about companions: confirm whether parents, carers or other travelling companions may enter.
6. Check timing: ask when the room opens and how staff will notify the passenger when it is time to board.

Do not assume that holding a Sunflower Lanyard, a disability card or a medical letter automatically guarantees access to every Sala Amica. The airport’s local assistance arrangements apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sala Amica Waiting Rooms

Are Sala Amica Rooms Only Found in Milan?

No. There are rooms under the Sala Amica service at several Italian airports, including Bologna, Bergamo, Catania, Naples, Olbia, Brindisi, Salerno, Trieste, Turin, Genoa and Venice, as well as Milan Malpensa and Linate.

Does Every Airport in Italy Have a Sala Amica?

No. Not every Italian airport has a waiting room with this name. However, many airports provide special assistance using different facilities or terminology.

Are Sala Amica Rooms Free to Use?

They are generally part of the airport’s disability assistance arrangements rather than commercial lounges. EU Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006 requires qualifying airport assistance to be provided without additional charge. Ask the airport about access conditions.

Can Autistic Travellers Use Sala Amica?

Potentially, depending on the airport’s assistance arrangements and the traveller’s needs. Some airports specifically describe autism-oriented waiting areas. Contact the airport or request assistance through the airline before travel.

Can Family Members Enter With the Passenger?

Rules differ by airport and room. Olbia explicitly refers to accompanying people being able to remain in its waiting room until boarding, but this should not be assumed elsewhere.

Is a Sala Amica Always After Security?

No. Some airports have rooms before security, others after security, and several have both. Check the location for your particular terminal.

Can I Book a Sala Amica Without Requesting Assistance?

Do not assume so. These are assistance facilities, not ordinary bookable lounges. Contact the airport for its specific procedure.

Are Sala Amica Rooms Guaranteed to Be Quiet?

No. Conditions vary and may change during the day. Ask about noise, lighting and occupancy if sensory accessibility is important.

Official Airport Sources About Sala Amica Lounges

• SEA – Milan airports, 2025 facilities update
• Milan Bergamo – Sala Amica
• Bologna – Dedicated Services
• Catania – Special Assistance
• Naples – Special Assistance
• Olbia – Special Assistance Waiting Room
• Brindisi – Special Assistance
• Salerno – PRM Guide
• Trieste – Passengers With Reduced Mobility
• Turin – PRM Facilities
• Genoa – New Sala Amica Announcement
• Venice – Terminal Map

Airport facilities and names were checked against published airport sources in November 2026. Some maps and documents are older; confirm the room’s current location, availability and access conditions with your departure airport.

Continue Planning Your Italy Itinerary With Kids

• Start at the beginning – with out guide to planning a trip to Italy with kids
• Head to our guide about accessible transport in Italy to plan how you’ll get around
• Explore how it would be to visit both Rome with autistic children and Vatican City with kids
• Learn more about planning a trip to Bologna with autistic children
• Head to our Milan with kids guide to start planning a trip in Northern Italy
• Heading to the South of Italy? Learn about visiting Bari with autistic children
• Read about how to plan a Venice trip with autistic children and if Venice is accessible
• Before using trains in Italy, it is worth learning how the Sala Blu accessibility service works
• Travelling Italy with medication? Learn about bringing prescribed medication into Italy

Continue Planning Your Europe Trip With Kids

• 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
• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines

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 Our Guides

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

The post Which Airports Have Sala Amica Waiting Rooms in Italy? appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travelling through Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) with a disability, reduced mobility or an autistic child can feel easier when you know what facilities are available before you arrive. Bologna Airport provides wheelchair assistance, accessible lifts and toilets, designated parking, special assistance waiting rooms and resources designed for autistic travellers.

This guide explains the disabled facilities at Bologna Airport, where to find help and what to check before your flight. For a detailed explanation of booking support, read my separate guide to special assistance at Bologna Airport.

For planning a wider trip to Bologna or Italy in general, our guides to visiting Bologna and travelling Italy with children are a good starting point.

Planning Your Visit to Bologna Airport

The airport’s official special assistance information is a useful starting point. It links to accessible routes, dedicated facilities, parking information and support for different disabilities. Bologna Airport advises passengers requiring assistance to report to a contact point at least 2 hours and 30 minutes before departure, or earlier if the airline requires it.

Check your airline’s instructions and the airport layout in advance. If you or your child finds unfamiliar spaces difficult, plan where you will enter the terminal, where to report for help and how you will move to your gate.

When we travelled out of Bologna Airport we were asked about the special assistance booking we had when we went to drop off our larger luggage at the airline desk. They contacted the special assistance team who sent someone to meet us where we were and that same person was with us through the entire journey in the airport until we were on the plane.

Special Assistance Services at Bologna Airport

Under EU Regulation 1107/2006, eligible passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility can receive airport assistance without an additional charge. Request assistance through your airline, travel agent or tour operator when booking, or at least 48 hours before departure. You can also make an assistance request via PRM Assist but I would recommend following this up with a conversation with the airline to explain the passanger needs in more detail.

Support can include a wheelchair or escort through check-in and security, help reaching the departure gate and assistance boarding or leaving the aircraft. The airport has ambulifts for passengers who cannot use aircraft steps. Tell your airline exactly what support you need, including whether you can walk short distances, use stairs or transfer independently.

Our guides to getting help at the airport and airline disability assistance codes explain how to describe your requirements.

Where to Report for Assistance

Bologna Airport identifies several places where passengers can announce their arrival and request help:

• Special Assistance Reception: on the ground floor in the check-in area.
• Help Phones: near terminal entrances and the Marconi Express station.
• Airline check-in desks: ask staff to contact the assistance team.
• Parking Office: on the ground floor of the P2 Business car park, open 24 hours a day.

These contact points are described on the airport’s Arriving at the Airport page. Pre-booking remains important because assistance requested on the day may involve a longer wait.

Accessibility Inside the Terminal

There are multiple disabled facilities at Bologna Airport for passengers with mobility, visual and hearing impairments. According to its dedicated services guide, these include:

• Wheelchairs for assisted passengers arriving and departing
• Wheelchair-accessible lifts with Braille buttons and audible floor announcements
• LOGES tactile guidance routes for visually impaired travellers
• A magnetic induction hearing amplification system at the ground-floor information desk
• Dedicated routes for disabled passengers who prefer to reach their gate independently
• Ambulifts for boarding and disembarking aircraft when needed
• Escorts through the airport from check-in to the plane
• Ambulifts to board or disembark the plane

The airport publishes maps of dedicated routes. These may be particularly useful if you need to avoid stairs, are researching accessibility at Bolgona Airport or want to familiarise yourself with the journey before travelling. You can also set up Google Maps to take you via the most accessible travel routes, though this is likely much more useful when you are outside rather than in the airport.

Important: the airport advises that wheelchair users may need assisted boarding using a dedicated vehicle or lift, even if they can travel independently through the terminal. Confirm your boarding arrangements with the airline.

The BLQ Airport App

The BLQ – Bologna Airport app is free to download on iPhone and Android. You can select your flight to receive real-time updates, check estimated security waiting times and use the terminal map to get your bearings. The app also lists airport shops, places to eat and transport options to and from the airport.

If you or your child find busy terminals or unexpected changes difficult, it can help to look at the map together before travelling and turn on flight notifications so you don’t have to keep looking for a departures screen. You can also take a screenshot of the map so it’s handy if you lose your connection.

Accessible Toilets and Changing Facilities

Bologna Airport identifies accessible toilets among its facilities for passengers with reduced mobility. Its published accessibility reporting also refers to accessible check-in counters and passport control facilities.

The airport’s family facilities includes baby changing tables which are available in toilets and there are three family toilets have smaller toilets for children. These family facilities should not be confused with an adult changing facility.

Adult changing facilities: If you need this equipment, contact the airport directly to establish what is available and where. You can contact the airport using this telephone number: +39(0)51 6479615.

You can also use our guide to finding toilets while travelling when planning the rest of your journey.

Seating, Sala Amica Lounges and Quieter Spaces

One particularly useful facility at Bologna Airport is its Sala Amica waiting rooms for passengers receiving special assistance. The airport lists three locations:

• One on the first floor before security
• One on the first floor after security in the Schengen boarding area
• One on the ground floor, airside, near the boarding gates

The airport’s autism familiarisation material describes the Sala Amica Lounges as calmer waiting rooms with seating, tables and a television, away from the general boarding hall. This could be helpful for travellers who find crowded gates overwhelming. However, these are assistance waiting rooms, not guaranteed private sensory rooms. Ask the assistance team whether you can use one and which location is suitable for your flight.

Autism and Hidden Disabilities Support

Bologna Airport participates in the Italian Autism – A Journey Across the Airport initiative. This provides advance information to help autistic travellers and their companions understand what happens during an airport journey.

Its official autism travel resources describe arrival, requesting assistance, check-in, security, waiting, boarding and getting onto the aircraft. The materials explain what passengers may see and hear at each stage, including queues, suitcase noise, bright screens, security alarms and aircraft engines.

Airport Familiarisation Visits Before Flying

Bologna Airport also offers the possibility of booking a pre-flight terminal familiarisation visit as part of its autism project. The airport asks for at least two weeks’ notice before departure. Check directly with the airport for eligibility, availability and how to arrange a visit.

For a child who benefits from seeing an unfamiliar environment in advance, this may be more useful than relying on photographs alone. If a visit is not possible, use the airport’s visual materials to prepare a simple sequence of what will happen on the day.

Our guide to airport assistance for hidden disabilities explains other ways to communicate your needs before travelling.

Security and Boarding Support

Passengers at Bologna Airport with a disability who are using special assistance can be accompanied through security and onwards to their gate. Explain in advance if you need instructions delivered slowly, help with trays or additional time to complete checks.

Bologna Airport’s autism guide describes the security process step-by-step, including placing belongings in trays, passing through the scanner and the possibility of a further check if an alarm sounds. Reading this together before travelling may help reduce uncertainty.

The airport also provides ambulifts for boarding and disembarking passengers who cannot use aircraft stairs. These arrangements need to be coordinated with your airline and assistance staff; do not assume the gate will have a boarding bridge.

Accessible Parking and Drop-Off

Bologna Airport provides designated parking for eligible disabled drivers and passengers. Its official disabled parking guide lists spaces in P1 Terminal, P2 Business and P Express, with short-stay provisions also covering designated pick-up and drop-off areas.

The airport explains that free parking is available in designated areas for holders of the valid European DPR 151/2012 disabled parking permit, subject to its procedures. Do not assume that a UK Blue Badge automatically meets the airport’s stated eligibility rules: check acceptance directly before travelling. For using your UK Blue Badge in Europe in general, our guide breaks down how it works.

How to Claim Eligible Free Parking

For short stays, the airport directs permit holders to the Parking Control Office on the ground floor of P2 Business, with their entry ticket, qualifying permit, identification and vehicle details. For longer stays, it also asks for flight booking or boarding documents, and requires passengers to report to the office promptly after entering. The office is open 24 hours a day. You can use the terminal map to search for and locate different facilities at Bologna Airport including the Parking Control Office.

For longer stays, the airport also requires a return visit to the Parking Office before collecting the vehicle so the ticket can be validated. Spaces cannot be reserved under the airport’s stated disabled parking arrangements. Check the official page for current requirements before arriving.

Getting To and From Bologna Airport

Bologna Airport is connected to Bologna Centrale railway station by the Marconi Express. The airport says passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility can request assistance at dedicated help columns in the stations.

When we were attemping to get from Bologna Centrale Station to the airport we found it impossible to get a taxi and navigating the station was absolutely impossible for us. We obviously looked lost, as someone offered to help us get up to the train platform… but then told us we had to pay him for his help so just watch out for that if you use this station.

If you need a wheelchair-accessible taxi or other transfer, confirm vehicle accessibility directly with the operator rather than assuming every vehicle will be suitable. The airport states that arriving passengers using assistance can be escorted to the taxi area, bus stops or P2 car park.

For onward travel, read our guide to accessible transport in Italy. If your journey continues by train, our Sala Blu train assistance guide explains the support available on the Italian rail network.

Food, Shops and Sensory Considerations

Airport cafés, shops and departure gates can be busy and noisy. Bologna Airport’s own autism resources warn travellers to expect voices, moving suitcases, monitors, queues and aircraft noise. If your child is sensitive to these, prepare a small set of familiar activities and plan breaks into the journey.

Ask the assistance team whether you can wait in a Sala Amica room rather than at a crowded gate. Bring familiar food if permitted by security and your destination’s rules, and check dietary or allergen information directly with the food outlet before ordering. For more general advice for travelling with an allergy, see our guide.

Who to Contact About Disabled Facilities at Bologna Airport

For current facilities, contact the airport using the official Bologna Airport special assistance page. The airport’s passenger service documentation lists +39 051 6479615 for information about assistance facilities. Confirm current contact details on the airport website before travelling.

If you need an adult changing bench, a hoist, a particular transfer arrangement or access to Sala Amica, ask for written confirmation of what is available. For flight-specific wheelchair and boarding arrangements, contact your airline too.

Disabled Facilities at Bologna Airport FAQ

Does Bologna Airport Have Accessible Toilets?

Yes. Bologna Airport identifies accessible toilets among its facilities for disabled passengers. Check the airport map or ask staff for the nearest suitable toilet.

Is There a Changing Places Toilet at Bologna Airport?

Contact the airport before travelling if you need an adult-sized changing space as the information I have reviewed does not clarify this.

Does Bologna Airport Have a Quiet Room?

Bologna Airport has Sala Amica waiting rooms for passengers receiving special assistance. These may offer a calmer place to wait, but they are not advertised as dedicated sensory rooms. Ask staff about access to Sala Amica waiting rooms.

Can Autistic Travellers Visit Bologna Airport Before Their Flight?

The airport’s Autism – A Journey Across the Airport programme offers the possibility of pre-flight familiarisation visits. The airport requests at least two weeks’ notice. Contact the airport to check availability and arrangements or use their online booking form.

How Early Should I Arrive if I Need Assistance?

Bologna Airport advises reporting to a designated contact point at least 2 hours and 30 minutes before departure, or earlier if your airline requires it. Book assistance at least 48 hours ahead whenever possible.

Is Disabled Parking Free at Bologna Airport?

Free parking is available in designated areas for passengers meeting the airport’s permit and documentation requirements. The airport specifically refers to a valid European DPR 151/2012 permit. Check eligibility and the Parking Control Office procedure before travelling.

Bologna Airport provides several useful accessibility features, including accessible lifts, wheelchairs, assistance lounges and an autism familiarisation programme. The most practical approach is to confirm the facilities you personally need, arrange assistance with your airline and use the airport’s own maps and preparation resources before travelling.

Continue Planning Your Italy Itinerary With a Disability

• Head to our guide about accessible transport in Italy to plan how you’ll get around
• Explore how it would be to visit both Rome with autistic children and Vatican City with kids
• Learn more about planning a trip to Bologna with autistic children
• Head to our Milan with kids guide to start planning a trip in Northern Italy
• Heading to the South of Italy? Learn about visiting Bari with autistic children
• Read about how to plan a Venice trip with autistic children and if Venice is accessible
• Before using trains in Italy, it is worth learning how the Sala Blu accessibility service works
• Travelling Italy with medication? Learn about bringing prescribed medication into Italy

Continue Planning Your Europe Trip

• 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
• Want scenic train journeys and nature? Learn more about Switzerland with autistic children for mountain views, calm towns and predictable travel routines

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 Our Guides

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

The post Disabled Facilities at Bologna Airport appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.