A Handy Compilation of Four Secrets to Accessible Air Travel
Air travel is stressful for anyone. Between driving to the airport, finding a place to park, checking bags, waiting in line for security, finding the gate, and the actual task of settling into a seat on the airplane, air travel seems impossibly difficult.
This is doubly the case for a person with a disability, especially those in wheelchairs. In addition to everything an able-bodied traveler has to worry about, there are inconveniences at every step. To name a few -- a person must find accessible parking, wait for an accessible vehicle to transport them to the terminal, and wait long periods to be checked through security.
It’s these inconveniences that make air travel seem particularly inaccessible for people with disabilities, but that doesn’t have to be case! There are many bloggers who have written extensively about air travel secrets for people with disabilities. In the blog below, I’ve compiled some of my favorite tips to help you on your next airport visit! Never let your disability stop you from seeing the world.
Secret #1: Airlines are Obligated to Provide On-Board Wheelchairs
If you need the assistance of a wheelchair, being on an airplane can often feel like being stranded in a seat for the duration of the flight. Bathroom trips? Forget it.
But, did you know, the Air Carrier Access Act requires that airlines provide on-board wheelchairs to customers who ask for it. This means that a simple phone call 48 hours ahead of your flight can ensure you’ll never be stranded from the bathroom again!
This is an especially important secret for all those 5+ hour flights. So, rejoice and drink all the liquids you desire prior to your flight!
Just remember to be specific when talking with an airline associate. Many of them won’t be aware that this is an obligation, and there might be some minor confusion.
Secret #2: Know Your Wheelchair Specs by Heart in Both English and Metric Units
Air travel is a hassle, but nothing is worse than having to hold your breath when flight attendants or workers try to fit your wheelchair in the cargo hold or in the overhead space.
In those moments, nothing will be more helpful than having a paper or note on your phone that specifies the exact measurements of your wheelchair. Airline associates will know the dimensions that can fit in their airplanes and will be very grateful that you have your own measurements to compare with.
Additionally, if your wheelchair has a lithium battery, it’s important to know the watt-hour rating. Above 300 wH and your chair won’t be flying with you.
Travel is all about preparation. Knowing the measurements and specifications of your wheelchair is an easy bit of preparation that will certainly come in handy!
Secret #3: Plan Your Seat on the Airplane Accordingly
This one may be obvious, but getting the right seat will make all the difference for your air travel experience.
One option is using a plethora of useful apps that assist with this very task. Apps like SeatGuru will show you the exact layout of your flight, as well as important tidbits like where the electrical outlets are, which rows have movable armrests, and more.
The other option is calling the airline to request a bulkhead seat. Often times, these seats are blocked off for wheelchair users or young mothers and calling in advance will ensure that one of those seats will be reserved for you!
When traveling, don’t be afraid to talk extensively with the airline -- remember, you have the right to make traveling as convenient as possible for you.
Tip #4: If Your Wheelchair Cushion is Removable, Keep it On the Airplane with You
One word -- rain. If you’re traveling to a location that is predicting rain or snow around your arrival time, try your best to take the seat cushion with you on the flight. This will save you from potentially having to sit in a very wet seat after you’re reunited with your wheelchair following the flight.
Trust me, sitting on a wet cushion is not fun.
These are just a few of the tips that I easily found while browsing the internet! I’ve linked a few articles below that go into more detail with specific airlines. I wish you the best of luck in your next air travels!
Written by Ryan Trombly
Ryan Trombly was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy when she was eighteen months old. The disability causes right-side hemiparesis that affects the entire right side of her body, weakening her muscles and limiting her mobility in everyday activities. Despite this, Ryan has strived to live an independent life without any barriers and hopes to use her voice to advocate for the disability community.
Want to read the articles this blog was based on in full? See the links below!
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