Lois Larson
If you need a wheelchair at the airport, you can request one from the airline when you make your reservation. Most airlines provide free wheelchair assistance to passengers with disabilities who need help navigating through the airport, including security checkpoints. While some sources suggest that you can request a wheelchair at the airport without providing a reason, others advise against this, as you could be taking a wheelchair away from someone who really needs it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair availability at the airport | Most major airports offer free or low-cost transport chairs for use at the airport. |
| Advance booking | It is advisable to request a wheelchair in advance, either during booking or by calling the airline. Some airlines require 48 hours advance notice. |
| Self-identification | Passengers must self-identify as needing assistance to airline staff at the airport. |
| Types of wheelchairs | Airlines provide different types of wheelchairs, including special wheelchairs to help passengers board the aircraft and plane-specific wheelchairs for guests to be mobile on the flight. |
| Wheelchair assistants | Many airlines provide wheelchair assistants to help passengers from the moment of arrival through security checkpoints, the terminal, and to the gate. |
| Electric carts | Larger airports have electric carts available for those who cannot walk long distances or need to get to a gate quickly. |
| Check-in time | Passengers with electric or battery-powered wheelchairs may need to arrive at the airport one hour prior to the normal check-in time. |
| Rental services | Companies like Mobility City offer wheelchair rental services at airports across the country. |
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What You'll Learn
Airlines must provide wheelchairs to passengers with disabilities
It is the responsibility of airlines to provide passengers with disabilities with the necessary assistance, including wheelchairs, to ensure safe and dignified travel. This assistance is available upon request and helps passengers with disabilities navigate through the airport, from the terminal entrance to the gate, during security checks, and when boarding and deplaning the aircraft.
Passengers who require wheelchair assistance are encouraged to inform the airline in advance when making their reservation. This allows the airline to be prepared and provide the necessary assistance promptly upon the passenger's arrival at the airport. It is important for passengers to self-identify as individuals with disabilities and communicate their specific needs to the airline staff.
In cases where there is uncertainty about a passenger's access needs, airline staff may ask the passenger for verbal assurance about their need for wheelchair service and how it assists with their disability. However, they cannot inquire about the nature of the disability itself. It is important to note that wheelchair services are intended for passengers with reduced mobility or those who require assistance due to a disability.
Airlines are taking steps to improve accommodations for passengers with disabilities. This includes providing training to their personnel, implementing repair and replacement procedures for mishandled wheelchairs, and working with other stakeholders to address issues beyond their control. Additionally, there are efforts to enhance the training of airline staff, with a focus on hands-on training, to ensure the safe handling of passengers with disabilities and their wheelchairs or scooters.
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) prohibits airlines from discriminating against individuals with disabilities and ensures their right to safe and accessible air travel. Passengers who feel that an airline has discriminated against them or failed to provide the required accommodations can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT).
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Requesting a wheelchair in advance
Most airlines ask that you make wheelchair or cart requests at least 48 hours in advance. Last-minute requests may not be accommodated by the airline. You can request a wheelchair or cart when booking your flight. If it's not an option during booking, call the airline.
Be sure to specify if you will require a wheelchair or cart as soon as you arrive, as well as if you will require it on the aircraft. After the phone call, the request should be added to your passenger record and be available once you get to the airport.
If you are travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair, you must arrive at the airport 1 hour prior to the normal check-in time.
If you have requested a wheelchair in advance, once you arrive at the airport, you must self-identify as a passenger with a disability needing assistance. Although the airline may have noted in your reservation that you need assistance, they will not know that you are the person who requested that assistance if you do not self-identify.
If there is uncertainty about the access needs of a passenger, a carrier may ask the passenger for credible verbal assurance that the passenger needs the service and how the service assists with the passenger’s disability. This inquiry must not be focused on the nature of the passenger’s disability. For example, a carrier may ask the passenger: “How does the requested wheelchair service assist with your disability?”
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Using your own wheelchair at the airport
If you are planning to use your own wheelchair at the airport, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth travel experience. Firstly, it is important to inform the airline of your accessibility needs when booking your flight. This includes requesting any necessary assistance, such as wheelchair assistance or guide assistance, to navigate through the airport. Most airlines will provide assistance upon request, as long as you self-identify as a passenger with a disability who requires assistance. This can be done by approaching airline staff at the airport or by making a request when booking your flight.
When travelling with your own wheelchair, it is recommended to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow sufficient time for checking any baggage, going through security screening, and boarding the plane. If you are travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair, some airlines may require you to arrive even earlier, typically one hour prior to the normal check-in time. It is also advised to measure the height and width of your wheelchair when it is collapsed and provide these details to the airline in advance.
At the airport, you can check in using the airline's app or at a kiosk before proceeding to your gate. If you plan to check your wheelchair at the counter, ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as a Mobility Device Handling Form, which can be provided to the ticket agent. Alternatively, if you intend to bring your wheelchair to the gate, you can hand the form to the gate agent when boarding. It is important to note that the handling of mobility devices may vary depending on their type and size. For example, some battery-operated devices may be stowed upright in the cargo hold, while others may need to be disassembled and checked separately. Therefore, it is recommended to review the airline's guidelines and consult the device manufacturer for specific instructions.
In addition to your wheelchair, you are also allowed to bring assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or crutches. These items may be stored on board or checked at the gate, depending on their size and the airline's policies. If you require additional assistance, such as help with medical devices or medication, be sure to review the relevant guidelines and plan accordingly. By following these suggestions, you can ensure a more seamless journey when using your own wheelchair at the airport.
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Renting a wheelchair at your destination
If you are travelling to your destination with your own wheelchair, you may want to consider renting a wheelchair at your destination instead of bringing yours. This can be due to several reasons, such as the risk of your wheelchair being damaged or lost during the flight.
Mobility City is one company that provides wheelchair rental services at various airports across the country. They offer a wide range of rental wheelchairs, including bariatric and pediatric models, ensuring that you get a wheelchair that suits your specific needs. You can find Mobility City locations at major airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), Boise Airport (BOI), Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), and many others.
When renting a wheelchair at your destination, it is essential to plan ahead and make arrangements in advance. Contact the rental company beforehand to ensure that they have the right wheelchair available for you. Provide them with details about your specific requirements, such as the type of wheelchair you need and the duration of your rental.
In some cases, you may also be able to request wheelchair assistance at your destination airport. This can be helpful if you need assistance transferring between flights or navigating through the airport facilities. However, it is always a good idea to confirm the availability of such services and make requests in advance whenever possible.
Remember to also consider the return of the rented wheelchair. Companies like Mobility City offer the convenience of picking up the rental wheelchair from you when it's time to head back home. By planning ahead and utilizing the services provided by companies like Mobility City, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when renting a wheelchair at your destination.
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Wheelchair assistance at security checkpoints
Wheelchair assistance at airports is free, but it is important to request it in advance. Most airlines ask that you make a wheelchair or cart request at least 48 hours before your flight. Last-minute requests may not be accommodated. When possible, request a wheelchair or cart when booking your flight. If it's not an option during booking, call the airline.
When you arrive at the airport, let airport personnel know that you require wheelchair assistance. If your reservation was made properly, the airline check-in desk should have a wheelchair ready. Many airlines provide wheelchair assistants for travellers who require a wheelchair or cart from the moment of arrival. The assistant will help you through security checkpoints, the terminal, and to the gate. If your airport has skycaps at the departures curb, you can also request a wheelchair from them to get you through security and to your gate.
Make sure you self-identify as a passenger with a disability and needing assistance. Although the airline may have noted in your reservation that you need assistance, the airline will not know that you are the person who requested that assistance if you do not self-identify. In situations where there is uncertainty about the access needs of a passenger, a carrier may ask the passenger for credible verbal assurance that the passenger needs the service and how the service assists with the passenger’s disability. This inquiry must not be focused on the nature of the passenger’s disability. For example, a carrier may ask the passenger: “How does the requested wheelchair service assist with your disability?” If the passenger does not have a disability, the carrier may refuse to provide the wheelchair service.
If you are 75 years of age or older and use a wheelchair or scooter, you may remain seated, and a TSA officer will conduct a test of your hands for any trace of explosives. If you are unable to stand or walk, you may also remain seated in your mobility device, and a TSA officer will conduct a similar test. You may inform the TSA officer that you have a medical condition if assistance or screening modification is needed during the screening process. Passengers with non-visible disabilities and medical conditions such as Alzheimer's, autism spectrum disorder, and dementia can be screened without being separated from their travelling companion. If a companion provides assistance during screening, they will need to be re-screened. Before screening begins, inform the TSA officer about the location of an ostomy pouch, medical ports, or a catheter attached to your body.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, most major airports offer free or low-cost transport chairs for use at the airport. Airlines are required to provide assistance to passengers with disabilities who request it. However, you must self-identify as a passenger with a disability and may be asked to provide credible verbal assurance of your need for the service.
You can request a wheelchair when booking your flight or by calling the airline. Most airlines ask that you make the request at least 48 hours in advance. When you arrive at the airport, let airport personnel know that you require wheelchair assistance.
Yes, you can use your own wheelchair at the airport. However, if you have an electric or battery-powered wheelchair, you may need to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. Check with your airline for specific policies and requirements.
