Air France’s SAPHIR Program Supports Passengers With Disabilities

Air France has established itself as a pioneer in accessible air travel through its SAPHIR programme, which provides specialized services to passengers with reduced mobility due to disability. The program offers comprehensive support throughout the entire travel experience, assisting customers before, during and after their flights.

The SAPHIR service helps passengers with booking, ticket issuing and transportation arrangements. Available in France and 20 other countries, the program requires travelers to request assistance during booking, at least 48 hours before departure. Passengers can make these requests directly through the Air France website or by contacting a dedicated phone number.

Air France’s customer relations center employs sales advisors who have received specialized training from medical specialists in handling disability-related concerns. These trained professionals are equipped to address questions about motor and sensory difficulties, ensuring passengers receive knowledgeable support.

In 2001, Air France became the first airline worldwide to offer free travel assistance services to passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility. Over the past two decades, the airline has served nearly 600,000 customers annually through this program, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to accessible travel.

The program includes the SAPHIR card, which maintains passenger profiles that record individual assistance needs and information about medical equipment carried on board or in the hold. This personalized approach streamlines the travel process for returning customers, making each subsequent journey more efficient and accommodating.

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