Parking for Disabled Travelers at Valencia Airport

Valencia Airport (Aeropuerto de Valencia or Manises Airport) serves as a major hub for travel in and out of the Spanish city of Valencia. With an increasing focus on accessibility, the airport has been designed to accommodate travelers with disabilities, including offering specialized parking options. This article delves into the parking services available for disabled travelers, ensuring that every aspect of their journey—from arrival at the airport to boarding their flight—is as seamless as possible.

Overview of Valencia Airport Parking

Valencia Airport features several parking options, including long-stay, short-stay, and VIP parking. All these areas provide easy access to the terminal building, and specific spaces are reserved for travelers with reduced mobility (Personas con Movilidad Reducida or PMR). The facilities are compliant with EU accessibility regulations, ensuring that disabled travelers are adequately supported throughout their journey.

Where Can Disabled Travelers Park?

Short-Stay Parking (P1)

Located just in front of the terminal, short-stay parking at Valencia Airport is ideal for quick stops, drop-offs, and pick-ups. Disabled parking spaces are conveniently placed near the entrance, ensuring minimal walking or transit time to the terminal.

Key features include:

• Reserved Parking Spaces: These spaces are exclusively available for disabled travelers and are located close to the elevators and pedestrian access points.
• Wide Spaces: The spaces are wider than standard parking spots, allowing for greater maneuverability for individuals using wheelchairs, crutches, or other mobility aids.
• Easy Access to Terminal: The short-stay parking lot is directly connected to the terminal through accessible pathways, making it easy for disabled passengers to access check-in counters, security, and boarding gates without hassle.

Long-Stay Parking

For those needing to leave their vehicle at the airport for several days or longer, the long-stay parking lot is a more cost-effective option. While this parking lot is farther from the terminal than the short-stay lot, it still offers dedicated spaces for disabled travelers.

Key features include:

• Shuttle Service: A free, wheelchair-accessible shuttle service connects the long-stay parking lot with the terminal, ensuring that travelers with reduced mobility do not face unnecessary obstacles.
• Proximity to the Shuttle Stop: Disabled parking spaces in the long-stay lot are located close to the shuttle stops, minimizing the distance that passengers need to travel on foot or in a wheelchair.
• Booking Discounts: Many times, travelers who book their parking in advance can secure discounts, making this a more affordable option for long-term stays.

VIP Parking

Valencia Airport also offers a VIP parking option, which is closer to the terminal and provides extra services such as car washing and luggage assistance. Disabled travelers who prefer a premium experience can take advantage of these additional conveniences.

Key features include:

• Personal Assistance: Travelers can request personalized assistance from airport staff to help them move from their vehicle to the terminal entrance. This service is particularly beneficial for travelers with significant mobility limitations.
• Valet Service: A valet service is available for VIP parking, eliminating the need for the driver to find a space or walk to the terminal.
• Direct Terminal Access: VIP parking spaces are located very close to the terminal building, ensuring fast and easy access.

How to Access Disabled Parking at Valencia Airport

Travelers with reduced mobility can access disabled parking spaces if they have a valid European Disabled Parking Permit (also known as a blue badge). The blue badge must be displayed on the vehicle’s dashboard or rearview mirror, clearly visible to parking attendants and airport security personnel. Vehicles not displaying the blue badge in the reserved spaces risk fines or towing.

Additionally, disabled travelers can pre-book parking spaces to ensure availability, especially during busy travel seasons. The booking process can be done online via the Valencia Airport website or through third-party providers that specialize in airport parking.

Support Services for Disabled Travelers

Valencia Airport offers a range of support services for disabled travelers to complement the accessible parking facilities.

Assistance Points

Once disabled travelers park their car, they can head to one of the many assistance points located in both the short-stay and long-stay parking areas. These points are clearly marked with signage and are equipped with telephones where travelers can request help from airport staff. Assistance can range from helping with luggage to providing a wheelchair for those who require it.

Accessibility in the Terminal

The Valencia Airport terminal is designed with accessibility in mind. Features include:

• Elevators: Elevators with Braille buttons and voice indicators are installed throughout the airport, ensuring that visually impaired passengers can move through the airport with ease.
• Accessible Restrooms: There are designated accessible restrooms located throughout the terminal.
• Priority Security Checks: Disabled passengers can request priority access through security checkpoints to minimize wait times and physical strain.
• Wheelchair Assistance: Wheelchair assistance is available upon request, and travelers are encouraged to notify their airline or the airport in advance to ensure that this service is ready when they arrive.

How to Arrange for Assistance

Travelers are encouraged to notify the airport or their airline of any special assistance needs at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure. Upon arrival, travelers can contact an assistance point or call ahead to request help from airport staff. This ensures that all necessary arrangements are in place, such as wheelchair availability, escort services, or priority boarding.

Contact Information for Special Assistance

Valencia Airport’s dedicated assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility (PMR) can be contacted via phone or email. This service is available throughout the day to cater to any special requests that disabled passengers may have.

Costs Associated with Disabled Parking

Disabled parking at Valencia Airport is priced the same as standard parking spaces. However, travelers using long-stay or VIP parking are often eligible for discounts if they book in advance. Additionally, certain airlines and travel agencies offer discounted or even complimentary parking for travelers with reduced mobility, so it’s always a good idea to inquire with your airline or agent before booking parking.

Final Tips for Disabled Travelers Using Parking at Valencia Airport

1. Pre-book Parking: To avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons, disabled travelers should pre-book their parking space. Many online platforms offer discounts for advance bookings.

2. Request Assistance Early: Ensure that any requests for wheelchair assistance or other mobility-related services are made well ahead of your flight.

3. Plan for Shuttle Time: If using long-stay parking, factor in additional time for the shuttle service to and from the terminal.

4. Display Your Blue Badge: Always display your blue badge in a visible location in your vehicle when parking in designated disabled spaces to avoid fines or penalties.

5. Consider VIP Parking for Added Convenience: If budget permits, VIP parking offers a more luxurious and convenient option for travelers with limited mobility.