Special Boarding Situations

Some Special Cases

Animals

Dogs and cats can travel by plane without any problem, to the extent that the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) has already considered the matter for quite some time.

However, each airline applies its own policy. Some do not accept any animals on board except for guide dogs, while others limit them to two per flight in the cabin or a set number in the hold. The animal's health, lack of vaccinations or a health certificate, or even a tattoo, as well as specific regulations in the destination country, can also be grounds for refusal. For these reasons, it is best to contact the airline when making your reservation.

When they weigh no more than 5 kg, animals can usually stay in the cabin, carried in a basket (maximum combined dimensions of 115 cm). Larger animals travel in the hold, without risk or problems, in conditioned crates (from 60 to 100 € for a medium-sized animal and around 200 € for a larger one). For greater peace of mind, it is advisable to give the animal a sedative before departure (average duration of 6 to 10 hours).

As for fares, they are either flat-rate or special. That said, the animal may sometimes be considered as luggage and thus subject to the usual regulations in this area, or even recognized as excess baggage (even if the passenger has none) with the additional cost that entails.

While often arriving half an hour before the check-in deadline is sufficient, it is sometimes necessary to arrive at the airport up to four hours before departure to complete the formalities with certain airlines.

Babies

In air travel, these are children under 2 years old. They do not occupy a seat and must be accompanied (a maximum of 2 babies per adult). With most airlines, they benefit from a 90% discount and priority boarding.

When requested at the time of booking, you can usually obtain a bassinet from the airline. For the rest, it is best to plan ahead or inquire beforehand, as depending on the destination or carrier, bottles and other specific meals are not always available. While babies are not entitled to a baggage allowance, their stroller is not included in it.

Children

These are children aged 2 to 12 (birthday date). They are entitled to priority boarding and benefit from a 50% discount with some carriers, while others offer no discounts at all, particularly on most charter flights and low-cost airlines (except to the French overseas territories where the law requires it).

Unaccompanied Children

From the age of four (or six, depending on the airline) to twelve, unaccompanied children can be taken care of free of charge by airline staff from check-in. Younger children must travel with a passenger over 15; if this is not possible, airline staff will take care of them for a special fee. For those over 12, airlines no longer assume legal responsibility. Unaccompanied or accompanied children are given priority boarding.

On charter flights and low-cost airlines, some tour operators or carriers do not accept unaccompanied children under 15.

Large Passengers

Aircraft seats are generally not very wide. As a result, airlines or tour operators may charge for a double seat for passengers who need to occupy two seats (except on domestic flights with French airlines where the law prohibits this).

Pregnancy

Each airline has its own regulations on this matter. However, women beyond their seventh month of pregnancy are generally no longer accepted on board. For a trip starting before this period but ending after, you can always try to obtain an exemption through your doctor. Very often, priority boarding is available.

Disabilities and Reduced Mobility

Special provisions exist. Airports have special access and equipment (parking, call points, etc.), as well as mandatory free assistance and priority boarding (also offered to elderly passengers). To learn about and benefit from these services, you must inform your airline and/or the airport in advance. It is also better to arrive very early for check-in.

In terms of fares, some airlines offer discounts, particularly on domestic flights in France. These apply to people with a disability card and sometimes to an accompanying person. Personal wheelchairs are usually carried without extra charges.

Ill or Injured Passengers

Or those whose condition may require in-flight care. They must be accompanied by medical staff. They are admitted under certain conditions and after approval by the airline's doctor. They can be taken care of by the airline for a fee. Most airports have an emergency medical service.

Members of a Loyalty Programme

After travelling with an airline, you can become a member of its loyalty programme and obtain a card (it's free). Offered by airlines, this system allows passengers flying on their routes (or those of partner airlines, hotel chains, or car rental companies) to accumulate "kilometres" (miles) to later benefit from free tickets or various advantages.

In large airports, some airlines have private lounges with free drinks, computers, telephones, TV, etc., reserved for their "high-contribution" passengers and loyalty programme members. Similarly, these members often benefit from priority check-in at separate counters.

Foreign Residents

Except for those from the European Union, who benefit from the same legislation as French nationals, others must comply with exit formalities that vary depending on the situation or country of origin. In addition to a valid passport, they must have a residence permit and, for some, a prefectural exit and return visa (information available at the Prefecture).

Workers from abroad and their families may sometimes benefit from reduced fares when travelling to their home country. Conversely, some charter flights are "closed to nationals."

Special Dietary Requirements

People requiring or wishing to have special meals can obtain them (rarely on charter flights) by requesting them at the time of booking or generally 24 to 48 hours before departure. Depending on the airline, destination, and choice, they may be more or less free, and you can get children's meals, vegetarian, dietary, kosher, halal, Hindu, salt-free, sugar-free, etc. Sometimes up to fifteen different menus...

Travellers with Oversized or Excess Baggage

Officially, only "standard" luggage is accepted for check-in. Bulky items, including televisions and large household appliances, must be sent as unaccompanied baggage at rates that vary greatly depending on weight, requested service, destination, airline, etc. (count on average 5 to 10 € per kg). Except for small quantities, this system can be more economical than the excess baggage fee charged by airlines.

For information, contact travel agencies or airlines, many of which have a freight service for larger items. In practice, this luggage must be dropped off several hours before departure.

Travellers with Vehicles

Cars and motorcycles can be transported on the same flight as their owners when large-capacity aircraft are used. However, as the number of vehicles is often limited, it is advisable to contact the airline well in advance.

As for prices, they vary greatly depending on the destination, airline, or vehicle. In almost all cases, it remains (very) expensive, to the point where it is better to prioritise transport by boat or train depending on the route.

Travellers with Special Equipment

Meaning bicycles, surfboards, skis, golf equipment, diving gear, etc. Although there is no universal rule, these are items that, due to their size, are considered separate by airlines. As a result, they often have a special fare even if the traveller's baggage allowance is not exceeded. Some, like bicycles, theoretically require special packaging. The amount of the additional fee varies (check beforehand).