Accessibility & Reduced-Mobility Services (PRM)
Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) provides free assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or a disability (PRM), under EU rules that apply at every European airport. With a little notice, staff will help you from arrival at the airport all the way to your seat, and vice versa. Here is how to arrange it and what to expect.
Is assistance available at Heraklion Airport?
Yes. Under EU Regulation 1107/2006, airports and airlines must provide assistance to passengers with reduced mobility at no extra charge. This covers wheelchair users and anyone who needs help moving through the airport — because of a disability, age, or a temporary injury.
How to request it
Book assistance through your airline, travel agent or tour operator, ideally at least 48 hours before your flight. Tell them what help you need — for example a wheelchair, help with bags, or guidance through the airport — so the right support is ready when you arrive.
What is provided
- Help from the terminal entrance, car park or bus stop to check-in
- Assistance through security and passport control
- Help to the gate and boarding the aircraft, including wheelchair support
- On arrival, help to baggage reclaim and out to onward transport
At the airport
Look for the designated assistance meeting points or contact staff on arrival if you have booked help. If you have not pre-booked, tell your airline’s desk as early as possible — assistance is still provided, but a wait is more likely without notice. The single-level terminal keeps distances short, which helps.
Travelling with a wheelchair or mobility aid
Your own wheelchair or mobility aid usually travels free and can often be used up to the gate, then carried in the hold. Tell your airline the type and, for powered chairs, the battery details in advance, as there are safety rules for batteries.
Accessible facilities
The terminal has step-free access, accessible toilets and reserved parking close to the entrance — see the parking guide. For getting to and from the airport, a taxi or a pre-booked accessible transfer is the most reliable step-free option.
Frequently asked questions
Is airport assistance free?
Yes — PRM assistance is free under EU rules at Heraklion and every EU airport.
How do I arrange help?
Through your airline or travel agent, ideally at least 48 hours before you fly.
Can I use my own wheelchair?
Usually to the gate; it then travels in the hold. Give your airline the details, especially for powered chairs.
What if I did not pre-book?
Assistance is still given — tell the airline desk on arrival, though you may wait longer.