On some flights, you can carry on detachable items, like seat cushions and footrests. If your wheelchair uses a lithium ion battery, it will be removed, packaged in a protective covering, and stowed in the cabin.
Every airline varies in their wheelchair size restrictions, though the typical size requirement is about 33 in × 34 in (84 cm × 86 cm) and under. If your wheelchair is too large to bring on board, you can stow it in the cargo area and use the airport’s wheelchair to get around their airport. You can check a personal wheelchair at the ticket counter or at the gate, free of charge.
Each airline has a different policy regarding their forms, so check online or call their customer service line. Some airlines may not even ask for a form. Complete the form if you want to use wheelchair assistance at the airport, need to use equipment to board the plane, or would like to bring your own wheelchair on board. The form will ask for information like your name, flight number, flight location and destination, departure and return date, and assistance needs.
If you have completed the wheelchair information form, you can mention it when you call. Calling is not a requirement, though it will confirm your wheelchair assistance. Calling in advance is not a requirement, but it will ensure you will get assistance in a timely manner. It also better prepares the airport’s customer service representatives to help you. You can request a wheelchair if you use one regularly or if you would like assistance with traveling around the airport.
If you live in the United States, you can call TSA at (855)787-2227. Their hours are weekdays from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm ET and weekends from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm ET.
Some airports have electric carts for customer use. If you do not arrive early, you may have to wait a bit for your wheelchair assistance. If you have already made your reservation in advance, you don’t need to arrive as early as you should without confirming your assistance. However, if you are trying to fly with your personal wheelchair, note that there is usually only room for 1 wheelchair and it is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Say something like, “Hello Melissa, I would love to use a wheelchair to get to Gate D. " Or, “Hi there, I am flying with my battery-operated wheelchair today. Is there another I can use to get on the plane?” You can check your wheelchair at the ticket counter if you are traveling with a non-collapsible wheelchair, scooter, or other battery-powered wheelchair. [7] X Research source
Show up early to your gate so you can secure your wheelchair assistance. If you are late to board, you may have to rebook your flight.
The flight attendants can also assist you with moving from your wheelchair to your seat, as well as help you get to the bathroom with your wheelchair. If you are traveling with a personal wheelchair, you can request to bring your folding or collapsible wheelchair on board with you. There is a designated space on the plane for 1 wheelchair, and this is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. If your wheelchair is not first or if it does not meet sizing requirements, flight attendants will transport it to the cargo compartment, free of charge. [11] X Research source
