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Although elderly individuals are not categorized as special passengers, their age and potential health concerns mean that extra care should be taken if you have an elderly person in your family who is about to fly. It's important to prepare carefully to ensure their well-being during the flight.
1. Health Considerations
Currently, Vietnamese domestic airlines do not impose any age restrictions for flying, but elderly passengers should pay special attention to their health before taking a flight.
If your elderly relatives have a history of cardiovascular, respiratory, blood, or neurological diseases, or have recently undergone surgery, flying may not be recommended. In such cases, it's essential to consult with a doctor before booking a flight. Generally, seniors are advised to get a health check-up before flying, regardless of their condition.
Elderly passengers should carry any necessary medication with them when flying. It’s advisable to have a clear prescription written down and placed in the carry-on bag, ensuring easy access in case of sudden fatigue. This will allow flight attendants to assist more effectively in case the person is unable to take the medication independently.
If you're traveling to a destination with a different time zone, it's advisable to consult a doctor about the best time to take your medication.
Elderly passengers should undergo a health check-up before their flight
2. Identification Documents for Elderly Passengers
Elderly passengers must present the same necessary identification documents as other travelers, including a valid ID card, citizen ID, or passport. For more information on required documents for air travel, click here.
Additionally, if the elderly passenger has health issues, a health certificate from a doctor at an authorized hospital or medical facility is required.
If you need to bring special items such as syringes, oxygen tanks, or wheelchairs, please note that only Vietnam Airlines currently provides services for passengers transporting oxygen tanks or stretchers.
For Vietnam Airlines, passengers who need a health confirmation will be provided with a MEDIF form (Medical Information Form) to submit their details to the airline.
Note: Passengers should prepare their documentation at least 14 days prior to the departure date for each leg of the journey. However, the following passengers must complete their paperwork within 7 days before the departure date of each flight leg:
- Passengers requesting stretcher services and/or requiring oxygen on the flight.
- Passengers must use medical devices during the flight if required.
3. It’s advisable to use the seat selection service in advance
For elderly passengers, it is recommended to use the seat selection service to ensure they have a comfortable, spacious, and healthy environment throughout the flight.
To get assistance with selecting your seat before the flight, you can contact the airline or the office/agency where you purchased your ticket for detailed guidance.
4. Check-in Procedure
To minimize waiting time at the airport, you can help your elderly family member check-in online via the airline’s website or mobile apps before the flight.
In addition, Vietnam Airlines has set up a dedicated check-in counter for families traveling with elderly members or children. These counters are available at all domestic airports, and all you need to do is head to the counter labeled ‘Family with children, elderly – Family Check-in.’ You should arrive 3 hours before the scheduled departure time for international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights to complete the check-in process.
Vietnam Airlines also offers a variety of check-in options, such as check-in by phone (telephone check-in) and check-in outside the airport (in-town check-in), giving you more flexibility in your travel preparations.
5. Ticket Purchase
When traveling by plane with an elderly family member, it is important to book tickets early and choose a flight time that suits their needs. Avoid flights that depart too early or too late in the day, as these can cause fatigue for elderly passengers.
Currently, Vietnam Airlines offers a 15% discount on standard, flexible, and economy saver fare types for senior citizens aged 60 and above when flying on domestic routes within Vietnam.
Senior travelers can easily purchase discounted tickets by visiting Vietnam Airlines' branch offices or official ticket counters and presenting their identification documents.
Seniors should purchase tickets early and select a suitable flight time
6. Other Important Considerations
- Before purchasing tickets, seniors should inform the ticketing staff about their health condition, any medical issues, or special requirements so that the staff can provide the best assistance.
- Elderly passengers should not fly alone. It is recommended to travel with family members or, at the very least, an adult companion who is physically able to assist during the flight.
- Prior to the flight, seniors should avoid carbonated drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, as well as foods that may cause bloating. They should also move around gently during the flight (except during takeoff and landing) to help with blood circulation and prevent fatigue.
We hope that the information provided above will be truly helpful in preparing for your elderly family member’s upcoming flight. Please contact Mytour at the hotline 1900 2083 for advice on flight routes, ticket prices, and assistance with quick and efficient ticket bookings.
Saturday, May 28, 2021 at 09:55
