If you use a wheelchair, have difficulty walking or with stairs, are blind or partially sighted, deaf, or have a medical condition, you can ask for help through your journey. At MGQ this help is arranged by your airline, so the most important step is to tell them early.
Book help with your airline
- Ask at least 48 hours before you fly — when you book, through the airline's "manage booking" page, or by phone. Our airline pages list each carrier's contact details and links.
- Say exactly what you need. Airlines use standard codes: WCHR (can walk short distances and use stairs, needs help over long distances), WCHS (cannot manage stairs), WCHC (cannot walk at all and needs help to the seat).
- If you bring your own wheelchair or mobility aid, give its type, size, weight and, for powered chairs, the battery type. Mobility aids usually travel free.
- Ask for help on every leg, including connecting flights in Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Addis Ababa or Nairobi.
At Aden Adde International
- Several security checks come before the terminal, and boarding may be by stairs from the apron. Tell the airline if you cannot manage stairs so they can plan how you board.
- Allow extra time: reach the outer checkpoint at least three hours before an international flight (see departing from MGQ).
- Whoever drives you should know where vehicles can stop — confirm the drop-off and meeting points with your hotel or transfer company.
- Facilities at MGQ are more limited than at large hubs. If something is essential to you, confirm it with the airline before you travel.
Medicines and medical equipment
- Keep essential medicines in your hand luggage with the prescription or a doctor's letter. Liquid medicines over 100 ml are allowed when needed for the trip — see our hand-luggage checker.
- Oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines and similar devices need airline approval in advance.
- If you are pregnant, check the airline's rules — most ask for a doctor's letter after about 28 weeks.
Travelling with children or older relatives
Families flying home often travel with grandparents or small children. Our guide to travelling with children covers documents and packing, and meeting someone at the airport explains how to collect a relative who needs help.
Useful tools
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a wheelchair at Mogadishu airport?
Request wheelchair assistance from your airline at least 48 hours before the flight. At MGQ the airline arranges it, so tell them what you need on every leg of the journey.
Is there a lift to board the plane at MGQ?
Boarding at MGQ may be by stairs from the apron. If you cannot manage stairs, ask for WCHS or WCHC assistance when you book so the airline can plan how you board.
Can I take liquid medicine in my hand luggage?
Yes. Liquid medicines over 100 ml are allowed when needed for the journey. Carry the prescription or a doctor's letter.
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