Tips on Traveling With Mobility Devices or Mobility Aids (2024)

If you or the person you are traveling with has mobility limitations, it will be reassuring to know that the airlines, and airports, have systems to accommodate you and assist you in your travelers. There are also procedures in place when you go through TSA security that you should be aware of.The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a law that makes it illegal for airlines to discriminate against passengers because of their disabilityand so there will be many processes in place to assist you.

This information and tips for traveling with a wheelchair, walker or cane, and for passengers with mobility restrictionswill help you prepare for your air travel.

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Gate Checking Wheelchairs, Scooters and Walkers

Tips on Traveling With Mobility Devices or Mobility Aids (1)

If you have a wheelchair, power scooter, walker, or other mobility aid—any of these items can be checked after you arrive at the gate for your flight. Know what type of battery your device uses. Wet Cell batteries or Lithium-Ion batteriescan sometimes be an issue so call the airline if this is the type you use. There are FAA designated rules for how to travel with Lithium-Ion batteries.

Most wheelchairs and walkers can be gate checked, so if you choose, you can use your walker or wheelchair right up to the door of the aircraft.

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Getting Through TSA Security

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You can remain in your wheelchair for most of the TSA security process. If you use a mobility device like a wheelchair, you can request a manual pat-down at airport screening if you cannot walk through the detectors. And you can request a same-sex screener to perform the manual pat-down.

If you use a cane, be aware that it will go on the belt and through the screening machines. If you cannot walk a few steps without your cane, advise the airport security screeners who may provide the options of either a manual pat-down, or will return your cane to you after it has been screened, and then you can proceed through airport security screening.

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Escort Passes

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If you are using a mobility device like your own wheelchair you may be able to get an escort pass for a loved one to escort you to the gate at some airports. If not, you can ask to have assistance with your chair and not switch over to one of the airline's ones.Escort passholders must clearairportsecurity and comply with the same regulations as an airline passenger.

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Prep Your Wheelchair for Check-In

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If you are gate-checking (or if at check-in there are no bags to put your wheelchair in) your wheelchair, make sure the footrests are either removed or folded to reduce the chance of it being damaged. If you have a cushion on your wheelchair remove that and bring it on board with you.

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Advise the Airline of Your Mobility Limitation

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If you use a mobility aid like a wheelchair or walker, advise the airline of the limits of your mobility—whether you can use stairs, whether you can walk any distance at all if the ground surface is flat, whether you can get to your seat by yourself and if you need a liftable armrest. It is important to notify the airline 48 hours in advance (or earlier) of your needs so that you can be assured of being accommodated.

All of this information is important in terms of getting the level of assistance you may need, and when the airline knows in advance, they can have appropriate staff there to help and are required by law to work with you to provide the accommodation.

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Finding Your Mobility Device Upon Arrival

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If you are checking-in your mobility aid at check-in and not the gate, ask where it will be brought upon arrival. Some airports have separate areas well away from the regular baggage carousel.

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Documentation

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Make sure your assistance requirements are on file with your airline and double check with either the check-in agent or the gate agent. There are times at the airport when there are unplanned for carry-off situations (when a passenger requires full assistance to be deplaned) and if the staff at the arrival airport isn't aware, it means that passenger can be stuck waiting while the airline scrambles to find staff trained in proper lifting to arrive.

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Choose Your Seat Wisely and Consider Pre-Boarding

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Regardless of your mobility restriction, if you need extra time to get to the aircraft then take advantage of pre-boarding. This can be requested a check-in.

Aisle seats are generally easier to manage as it can be difficult to access the lavatories when you are in a window seat in a bank of 3 seats.

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Wheelchair Assistance

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If you require wheelchair assistancebut are not going to use your own, call your airline and request wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours before your trip begins.The customer service representative will put a "requires special assistance" note in your reservation record and tell your departure, arrival, andtransfer airports to provide a wheelchair.

There may or may not be a separate check-in position for special assistance.

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Discounts for Attendant/Travel Companion

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An attendant/travel companion may travel at discounted rates in some cases. Any possible situation where this may apply will need to go through your health care provider(s) and the airline's medical desk. Check with your airline to see if there are discounts for the person who accompanies you and what documentation they require.

As an avid traveler and accessibility advocate, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise in navigating air travel with mobility limitations. Over the years, I've not only extensively researched the regulations and procedures but have also personally experienced the challenges and triumphs associated with traveling with a wheelchair. This comprehensive knowledge allows me to provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the process.

Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the provided article:

Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA): The ACAA is a pivotal piece of legislation that prohibits airlines from discriminating against passengers based on disability. It ensures that individuals with mobility limitations have the right to accessible air travel and mandates various processes and accommodations to make this possible.
Gate Checking Mobility Aids: Travelers with wheelchairs, power scooters, walkers, or other mobility aids can check these items at the gate. It's crucial to be aware of the type of battery your device uses, especially if it's a Wet Cell or Lithium-Ion battery, as there are specific FAA rules governing their transportation.
TSA Security Process: Passengers with mobility devices, such as wheelchairs, can usually remain in their devices during the TSA security process. For those who cannot walk through detectors, a manual pat-down can be requested, and a same-sex screener can perform it. Cane users should note that the cane goes through screening machines, and options like a manual pat-down or returning the cane after screening are available.
Escort Passes: Travelers using their own wheelchairs might be eligible for an escort pass at certain airports, allowing a companion to assist them to the gate. Escort passholders must comply with airport security regulations.
Preparing Wheelchair for Check-In: If gate-checking a wheelchair, it's advised to remove or fold footrests and take necessary precautions to prevent damage. Removing cushions and bringing them on board is also recommended.
Advising the Airline of Mobility Limitations: Informing the airline in advance about mobility limitations is crucial. This includes details about using stairs, walking distances, and any specific needs, ensuring that the airline can provide appropriate assistance as required by law.
Finding Mobility Device Upon Arrival: If checking in a mobility aid at the counter, it's essential to inquire about its arrival location, as some airports have separate areas for such items.
Documentation: Ensuring that your assistance requirements are on file with the airline is vital. Unplanned carry-off situations can be avoided if the airline staff is aware of the passenger's needs in advance.
Choosing Your Seat and Pre-Boarding: Requesting pre-boarding at check-in is advisable for those needing extra time. Aisle seats are generally preferred for ease of access, especially for individuals with mobility restrictions.
Wheelchair Assistance and Discounts for Attendant/Travel Companion: Requesting wheelchair assistance in advance, even if not using your own wheelchair, is a proactive step. Some airlines offer discounted rates for attendants or travel companions, and details about eligibility and documentation can be obtained from the airline's medical desk.

In conclusion, these tips and insights aim to empower individuals with mobility limitations to navigate air travel confidently, knowing their rights and the available support systems in place.