Phrases › At the Airport › Ho bisogno di una sedia a rotelle.

Ho bisogno di una sedia a rotelle.

I need a wheelchair.

Pronunciation

se-DIA — stress on second syllable. ro-TEL-le — double 'l', stress on second syllable.

When to use it

When requesting mobility assistance at the airport for yourself or a companion.

What it means

'Ho bisogno di' (I need) is one of the most important Italian expressions of need. Literally it means 'I have need of'. 'Sedia a rotelle' (wheelchair) literally translates as 'chair with wheels'. Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance should request this when booking their flight.

Variations

Ho prenotato assistenza speciale. Dove devo andare?

I booked special assistance. Where do I go?

Pre-booked assistance has dedicated check-in points

Mio padre ha difficoltà a camminare. Può aiutarci?

My father has difficulty walking. Can you help us?

Ask at any airline desk for assistance

C'è un ascensore per le persone con mobilità ridotta?

Is there a lift for people with reduced mobility?

All modern Italian airports are fully accessible

Mini Dialogue

— Buongiorno. Ho bisogno di una sedia a rotelle per mia madre. — Certamente. L'ha prenotata in anticipo? — No, è stata una decisione dell'ultimo minuto. — Nessun problema. Un momento e arriva il nostro personale di assistenza.

— Good morning. I need a wheelchair for my mother. — Certainly. Did you book it in advance? — No, it was a last-minute decision. — No problem. Just a moment and our assistance staff will come.

Cultural Note

EU regulations require airlines and airports to provide free assistance to passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). This includes wheelchair assistance, help through security, and boarding assistance. It is best to request this at least 48 hours before the flight when booking.

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