Navigating the skies with a mobility device requires a little more preparation, but with the right knowledge and planning it is completely achievable.
Air Carrier Access Act
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a US federal law, first enacted in 1986, that prohibits discrimination against passengers with disabilities in air travel. Under the ACAA, airlines must accommodate passengers with disabilities, including people who use mobility devices. This means that airlines are required to provide assistance with boarding, deplaning, and making connections, as well as storing your mobility device. It is important to become familiar with the ACAA to understand your rights and what types of accommodations you can expect.
tsa cares
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a program called TSA Cares, which is a helpline that provides additional assistance during the security screening process for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other circumstances. TSA Cares is staffed to provide information to travelers during the screening process, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on weekends and holidays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
A traveler may request the services of a TSA Passenger Assistance Specialist (PSS), who can provide assistance through security screening. The PSS is a TSA officer who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with people with disabilities or medical conditions and passengers who need additional screening assistance. To request PSS you can call the above number or fill the online form.
Planning air travel with a walker or cane
Air travel with a walker or cane is generally straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
- Storing the device: Walkers and canes are usually folded and kept in a designated area in the overhead compartment or cabin.
- Mobility Aid: Airlines provide escort services to help you get through the airport and onto the plane. You can also request an aisle wheelchair for easier boarding.
- Call ahead: Although it is not mandatory, it is still advisable to inform the airline in advance that you will be traveling with a mobility aid. This ensures that the team is ready to assist you.
- Label your device: Be sure to write your name on your device so that there is no confusion at gate checking.
Planning to travel by air with a wheelchair
Wheelchair travel involves a little more planning, but can still be managed. Here’s what you need to know:
- advance notice: Always inform the airline in advance that you will be traveling in a wheelchair. This allows them to make the necessary preparations for your trip.
- Types of assistance: Airports offer a variety of wheelchair assistance, such as taking you through security and helping you board the plane.
- Your own device: You can usually use your wheelchair or scooter to the boarding gate. From there, it will be placed in the cargo hold, and you will be transferred to an aisle wheelchair for boarding.
- Airport issued wheelchairs: Some passengers opt for airport-issued wheelchairs. If you choose this option, your personal wheelchair will be collected immediately after check-in.
Shannon McDonald, an occupational therapist in Denver, Colorado, has guidance for navigating airports with mobility devices. His number one recommendation is to plan ahead and not leave anything until the last minute. She tells her customers to take advantage of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry to minimize delays. They told us you can now complete a TSA PreCheck application at any Staples store in the country.
Laurel McFarland of Parker, Colorado, is 75 and uses a cane after her double knee replacement surgery. She recently traveled through Denver International Airport (DIA), an airport that is notorious for long wait times. Ms. McFarland wishes she had known about the Staples alternative to McDonald’s mentioned above. He underestimated how long it would take to go through DIA security. Laurel started the TSA PreCheck application online and planned to complete it at the airport, but found herself at the wrong end of the concourse without enough time to get to the other side. She was unable to complete or use TSA PreCheck and had to stand in a long, standard security line. Laurel also wishes she had accepted the offer of a wheelchair at check-in. She told us, “Next time, I’ll take a wheelchair. Who cares what it looks like.”
Macdonald recommends doing anything that helps conserve energy, as airports can be tiring for anyone – not just those with limited mobility. “Be sure to utilize any and all services available to you,” he said. “Call to find out what services are available at the airport. Don’t be afraid to ask people for help.” Some of his other recommendations are:
- Use a crossbody bag or fanny pack to free up your hands
- Keep your medications in your carry-on bag
- Use Apple AirTag or Tile Tag in checked luggage for easy trackability and peace of mind
- Take advantage of preboarding
- If long trips seem daunting, start with short trips
McDonald’s final words of advice were, “Don’t be afraid to travel – it’s worth it!”
Also read:
Why can knowing airline wheelchair policies make flying easier?
Airlines damage passenger wheelchairs – more than 200 per week
