Essential tips for securing a wheelchair at the airport

Traveling on flight days can be overwhelming, especially when considering how to arrange a wheelchair at the airport. This article aims to alleviate that stress and provide you with helpful tips for a seamless experience.

By informing you about what to anticipate, how to get ready, and how to navigate airport travel as a wheelchair user, your journey can be far more relaxing and enjoyable. Here’s how to ensure your experience as a wheelchair user is a success.

Contact the airline 48 hours before your flight to arrange wheelchair assistance at the airport

Arrive at the airport ahead of time

Getting to the airport early is crucial, especially for wheelchair users. Ideally, you should arrive for a domestic flight at least two hours before departure, and three hours before for international flights. This will give you ample time to secure wheelchair assistance and reach your gate without feeling rushed.

How can you obtain a wheelchair at the airport ticketing counter?

Assistance points in the airport are marked with a disability logo and can be found both inside and outside. The logo will be clearly visible near the entrance, making it easy to locate. If you have trouble finding it, just ask a staff member for directions after checking your bags. At this location, they will provide a wheelchair for your use until boarding, help you through TSA with either the loaned or your own wheelchair, guide you to your gate, and assist with boarding the aircraft. Clearly communicate your needs to the staff; you are your best advocate.

Is there a fee for wheelchair assistance at the airport?

Boarding the aircraft while using a wheelchair

Airport staff will assist you in boarding the plane if you are unable to walk to your seat. They will transfer you from your wheelchair to a narrower aisle chair designed to fit down the aircraft aisle. Preboarding is a right guaranteed to individuals with disabilities under the Air Carrier Access Act. This ensures that guests have sufficient time to be assisted to their seats, store their carry-on luggage, and settle in comfortably without needing to navigate around other passengers.

How to discover the ideal flight and hotel before your journey

While planning your vacation, you may wonder which airlines, hotels, or destinations offer the best wheelchair accessibility and which to steer clear of. Here are some recommendations based on my personal experiences to assist you in organizing your trip.

Still undecided about where to travel...

Before considering how to arrange wheelchair assistance at the airport, you first need to determine your desired destination in this beautiful world. As a wheelchair user, I’ve explored many incredible wheelchair-friendly locations. To kick off your research, visit accessible travel blogs and websites like Wheelchairtraveling.com, Worldonwheelsblog.com, and Spintheglobe.net.

If you’re seeking the ideal flight…

After you’ve decided on your destination, the next step is planning how to get there. Visit the Dinogo Flights Search Tool to explore the quickest and most affordable air travel options. Here, you can discover the best flight that suits your needs, as this site is dedicated to finding the best deals. Traveling as a wheelchair user can add up, so I always appreciate uncovering the best prices.

If you're uncertain about which hotel will suit you best...

You can also browse hotel options on Dinogo. This will provide you with a variety of accommodations in your desired area and even notify you of any price fluctuations before you book. After finding the perfect hotel, it’s a good idea to call the hotel directly to ask any questions you may have regarding room accessibility and clarify what you might need for a comfortable stay.

As you arrive at your destination, airport staff will assist you in getting off the plane and into a wheelchair, whether it's your own or a rental chair provided for navigating the airport. You're now set to collect your checked bags and start your adventure.

How did I come to know what to include in this guide?

Having used a wheelchair for most of my life due to Spinal Muscular Atrophy, I've taken hundreds of flights. While air travel has sometimes been stressful, it has also enabled me to explore over 40 countries across all 7 continents. These experiences have equipped me with insights that I hope will help make travel easier for fellow wheelchair users.