Air Travel Tips for Wheelchair Users

Today, my maternal grandmother flew from Orlando to Buffalo, New York, and she had to use a wheelchair to go through the airport due to medical issues. So, I thought this would be a good time to give air travel tips to wheelchair users. The most important tip is to think about what you'll need and get yourself prepared. Before you make your flight reservation, you should read your airline's policy about people with disabilities and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Keep your seat preference and any connecting flight times in mind when making your reservation. Contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to inform them you'll need special assistance. When you arrive at the airport, tell an employee from your airline you need wheelchair assistance.

Allow time for waiting in lines and a pat-down by a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer. After getting to your gate, tell an agent you want to preboard the plane before non-disabled passengers. If you can't walk, you'll be transferred from your wheelchair to a narrow, high-backed aisle chair with security straps. Try to prevent wheelchair damage by attaching written wheelchair operating instructions to your chair and keeping removable parts with you. If there's damage, take photos of your wheelchair and notify the airline right away; you can file a compensation claim. Single-aisle airplanes don't have accessible bathrooms, so you should do your best to go to the bathroom at the airport before your flight. If you have an accessibility problem at the airport, you can speak with the complaint resolution official. For more information about air travel for wheelchair users, go to https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/08/travel/flying-tips-for-wheelchair-users-disabilities.html.

I during a flight in June 2009

(Photo by Tracy McGrath)