Plan your accessible journey through Adelaide Airport
Helping you plan ahead
From booking assistance to travelling with medical equipment, assistance animals, and accessible transport.
We’re committed to providing facilities that make Adelaide Airport accessible for everyone, including passengers and visitors with disabilities or additional support needs.We know how important it is to plan ahead, so we’re here to help you prepare for a smooth journey.
The most important thing you can do when planning your journey is to let your airline or travel agent know as early as possible that you need assistance. They can make sure everything is ready for you, from check-in and boarding support to accommodating mobility aids or assistance animals.
Need help with contacting your airline?
We have contact information for airlines at Adelaide Airport and if you’re unable to contact the airline yourself, ask a friend, family or a trusted person to help. They will need your name and booking reference number and may need to speak to their assistance team.
On travel day, give yourself a little extra time. We recommend arriving at least 1 hour before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights and even earlier if you’d like a more relaxed start to your journey.
We’ve provided some handy checklists and tips below to help you prepare and plan ahead and if you need support navigating the airport with hidden disabilities - you’ll find specific help and advice here.
Guide to travelling with medical devices and equipment
Travelling with medical equipment or mobility aids? Here’s a quick checklist to make things easier:
If you’re bringing a wheelchair, oxygen equipment or other large items, let your airline know and check policies and arrange support at the airport.
Many airlines allow extra luggage for medical or disability-related items, but it’s always best to confirm with your airline before you pack.
Pack medical devices and important medications in your carry-on in case your checked bags are delayed or lost.
Carry a doctor’s letter or medical ID card explaining your condition, medications, or equipment to make security & assistance smoother.
Clearly mark medical devices with your name and contact details to help identify them if they get lost or misplaced.
Check in advance with both your airline and the Civil Aviation Authority website to see if there are any restrictions on carrying extra batteries. Lithium batteries | Civil Aviation Safety Authority
Preparing for airport security and screening.
When you arrive at the screening point, have documentation for medication, devices and equipment ready for the staff before your belongings go through the security scanners. Tell our friendly team if your items can’t be X-rayed, and they can arrange an alternative screening method. Security staff are trained to handle medical equipment carefully and with discretion.
Guide to travelling through Adelaide Airport with medication.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for a smooth and easy journey through Adelaide Airport if you’re travelling with medication:
Make sure your name is clearly visible to help airline and security staff verify your items quickly
A letter from your doctor or health professional explaining your prescription and medical needs will make the process faster and smoother
Medical liquids over 100ml (like insulin or saline) are allowed with documentation but will be screened separately. Powders over 350ml may also need extra checks.
Store all liquids, gels, aerosols, and powders together in an easy-to-reach area of your bag, so you can share it all together quickly and easily with staff.
Let security staff know you have them as needles and syringes must be accompanied by medical documentation and declared to security staff before screening, ideally in their original sealed packaging.
If travelling overseas, confirm your medication is permitted at your destination to avoid issues.
Travelling with Assistance Animals
We welcome assistance animals at Adelaide Airport and have facilities to keep them comfortable throughout your journey.
- Notify your airline early – Airlines require pre-approval for guide dogs and certified assistance animals, so arrange this when booking.
- Let security know – Inform screening officers before the process begins for a smoother experience.
- Locate the designated relief areas – Safe, hygienic spaces are available inside and outside the terminal. See our terminal map for locations.
For details on travelling internationally with assistance animals, visit the Department of Home Affairs – People with Special Circumstances.
Need Extra Support While You Travel?
If you or someone you love needs a little extra care on the journey, Medical Travel Companions can help make flying stress-free and comfortable.
This trusted third-party service offers friendly travel nannies, qualified nurses, or experienced paramedics to accompany you on your flight—providing reassurance, assistance, and peace of mind every step of the way.
Every trip is different, so the service is fully flexible and tailored to your needs. Whether it’s medical support or simply an extra helping hand, they’re here to make your journey easier.
Please note: This is an independent service and is not operated by Adelaide Airport.
Accessible transport to and from Adelaide Airport
We’ve designed our transport options to make arriving and departing as simple and stress-free as possible — whether you’re driving yourself, getting dropped off, or using public transport.
Accessible Parking
Adelaide Airport offers 26 designated disability parking spaces in the Terminal Car Park, all located close to lifts and terminal entry points for quick, easy access:
- Level 2 – 12 spaces
- Level 1 – 6 spaces
- Levels 3 & 4 – 4 spaces each
A valid disability parking permit must be clearly displayed in your vehicle. If you need to take your permit with you while travelling, contact our team ahead of your trip on (08) 8308 9380 or email them at carparkoffice@adelaideairport.com.au. And we will help you to work out a solution.
Helpful videos and Easy English guides made by people with lived experience
Planning a trip can be stressful but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve worked with people who live with disability and other access needs to create practical, easy-to-understand videos, fact sheets and tips and advice that can help you prepare for each step of your airport journey.
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