Air travel can present challenges for people with mobility issues. Hurdles at every step of the process, from getting into and around the airport to onboarding and disembarking, can pose unfair difficulty for travelers with disabilities. But there are some airlines around the world that take accessibility seriously and back it up with procedures designed to alleviate barriers to a smooth experience.

6 American Airlines

American Airlines allows passengers to make a request for special assistance at the time of reservation, but you can also contact the airline on the day of travel. Wheelchair assistance is available to and from the gate as well as between gates for connecting flights. Their team can also provide mobility assistance to baggage claim.

5 Qantas

The Australian airline recommends giving 48 hours’ notice for mobility assistance requests, but the airline provides comprehensive wheelchair assistance. Curbside aid is available at Australian airports, and airline staff can provide assistance getting to the gate, with boarding and disembarking, and getting to your seat using either the onboard wheelchair or your own mobility device. The carrier’s website states that passengers requiring wheelchair assistance should arrive at least 60 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights, and two hours prior for international trips.

4 Air Canada

The largest carrier in Canada provides mobility assistance during the check-in, boarding, and disembarking processes. Airline staff can help transfer a passenger from the onboard wheelchair to their seat and assist with storing and retrieving carry-on luggage. Most, but not all, aircraft have accessible washrooms with features that require minimal effort to operate.

3 JetBlue

Low-cost carrier JetBlue makes our list for its extensive wheelchair assistance policy. Passengers can add a Special Service Request to their booking and choose their own seat. Wheelchair assistance is available at all airports serviced by the airline. Team members can bring a wheelchair to the curb and provide boarding and deplaning aid at both departure and destination airports. They can also arrange to have your personal wheelchair available upon arrival at the gate or at baggage claim, whichever you prefer.

2 Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic is another top contender for offering accessible washrooms on all aircraft. Amenities include toilets with grab rails, a transfer chair, and bi-fold doors. The cabin crew can help passengers get to and from the lavatory door using the onboard wheelchair. The airline also provides wheelchair assistance from the time of check-in to the aircraft door. Upon landing, the airport assistance team can help travelers get through the terminal and into the arrivals area.

1 British Airways

The flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom tops the list for its three distinct service levels to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Because travelers may have varied mobility issues, the airline allows passengers to designate which service level they require when booking their reservation. Service levels range from a basic level of wheelchair assistance up to full-service assistance getting to and from the aircraft and chair aid to move about the cabin. Additionally, the cabin crew can help store and retrieve hand luggage for individuals with disabilities.

It is important to note that airline accessibility policies can change, so checking with individual airlines directly is always advisable for ensuring you have the most current information to prepare for your flight. Several airlines also note on their websites that on-the-ground assistance is subject to staffing availability, so it is wise to make special assistance requests in advance in accordance with your chosen airline’s recommendations.