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Essential Documents for Elderly Air Travel
Can elderly individuals fly by air?
Currently, airlines do not have age restrictions for air travel, therefore, elderly individuals ARE ABLE TO fly like other passenger groups.
To complete the air travel procedures, seniors need to prepare the necessary documents as follows:
- For domestic flights:
- Citizen ID/ID card
- Passport
- Driving license
- National Assembly delegate card or party member card
- Press card
If the mentioned documents are not available, elderly individuals should request a Family Confirmation Document from the local police in their residential ward or commune. This document should have a photo attached and be stamped, and it is valid for 30 days.
- For international flights:
- Passport
- Travel permit
- Exit visa
- Permanent or temporary residence card
What documents do elderly individuals need for air travel?
Can elderly individuals travel by air alone?
Elderly individuals ARE PERMITTED to travel by air alone, provided they have the necessary documents for the procedures and ensure their health conditions. Additionally, if you still feel uneasy about letting your parents or grandparents travel alone by air, consider exploring the elderly assistance services offered by various airlines.
Elderly individuals can travel by air as long as their health conditions are ensured.
Can individuals over 80 years old travel by air?
'Can individuals over 80 years old fly by air?' is a question many passengers are concerned about because at this age, elderly individuals often face various health issues. According to regulations, individuals over 80 ARE STILL ABLE TO travel by air if they are mentally alert and in good health. However, they should undergo a health check before the journey to ensure safety throughout the flight.
What health conditions should elderly individuals avoid flying with?
To ensure safety, elderly individuals should refrain from flying if they have the following illnesses:
- Cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, chest pain, heart failure,...
- Respiratory-related diseases like tuberculosis, bronchitis,...
- Neurological and blood-related diseases such as brain tumor, stroke,...
- Recent surgery patients
- Those suffering from acute sinusitis or ear inflammation should also seek alternative means of transportation if experiencing ear pain, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or dizziness.
Elderly individuals with heart disease should avoid air travel.
What privileges do elderly individuals have when flying by air?
Elderly individuals flying by air are entitled to several benefits from airlines, including:
Discounted airfare
Currently, three airlines - Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines - are implementing a 15% discount policy on domestic flight tickets for passengers aged 60 and above.
Please note that this offer is only applicable when purchasing tickets from the official airline outlets, including central ticket offices and last-minute ticket offices at the airport. When buying tickets, senior citizens need to present their ID card, passport, or other personal identification documents to verify their age.
Priority in Procedures
Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are two airlines implementing a priority check-in policy for elderly passengers. Specifically:
- Vietnam Airlines offers the Family Check-in service, prioritizing check-in for families traveling with individuals over 65 at all airports nationwide. Please note, you and your family should arrive at the airport 3 hours in advance (for international flights) or 2 hours in advance (for domestic flights) and complete the boarding procedures at the dedicated counter for families with young children and elderly individuals of VNA.
- Vietjet Air prioritizes check-in for elderly passengers at the special assistance counters serving special passengers at Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, and Da Nang airports.
Other Services
Elderly air travelers will receive assistance with various services:
- Free indoor wheelchair and walking stick assistance (depending on the airline).
- Assistance with wheelchairs, lifts at the terminal, on the tarmac, and when boarding the plane.
- Special meals based on health conditions and dietary habits (passengers must pre-order with the airline within 24 hours before the flight).
- Baggage retrieval.
Elderly air travelers receive complimentary use of indoor wheelchairs for mobility
Tips for Comfortable Air Travel for Seniors
To ensure the utmost comfort for elderly individuals during air travel, consider the following tips:
- Avoid choosing late-night or early-morning flights.
- Select a comfortable, easily accessible seat near the restroom and aisle.
- Travel with only a lightweight carry-on for convenience in movement.
- Arrive at the airport early for check-in and have time for rest, meals, and medication if needed.
- Contact airline staff or ticket agents for advice on personal identification documents and airline regulations to avoid complications during the boarding process.
Through this article, Mytour aims to address any concerns about elderly air travel. Please save the necessary information for a smooth journey for you and your grandparents, parents!
For further consultation on detailed regulations, documentation for air travel, and quick assistance in booking affordable flights, please contact Mytour.vn at the hotline 1900 2083.
Hoai Anh
Image Source: Internet, Mytour
