Details
Resource Overview
Air travel for disabled passengers is protected under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which prohibits discrimination. Airlines must provide free assistance, including wheelchair support, seating accommodations, pre-boarding, and help with stowing assistive devices. Advance notification is optional but highly recommended.
Booking & Advance Notice
- Add Special Assistance: Note your specific needs when booking on your airline's app or website (e.g., American Airlines Special Assistance or Delta Accessible Travel).Advance Notice:
- While ACAA rules do not require advance notice for most accommodations, you should notify the airline at least 48 hours prior if you need hazardous materials packaging for a wheelchair battery, medical oxygen, or an onboard wheelchair for flights where the lavatory is not accessible.
- Service Animals: Service animals fly free. Ensure you complete the required US Department of Transportation Service Animal Form before arriving at the airport
At the Airport
- Wheelchair & Cart Services: Request wheelchair pushes or electric cart rides to your gate and for connecting flights. Arrive early to allow ample time to get to your gate.
- Assistive Devices: Your mobility devices (scooters, wheelchairs, walkers) do not count against your carry-on limit and are checked free of charge.
- Pre-boarding: Identify yourself to the gate agent for preboarding. This allows you extra time to get down the jetway, transfer to the onboard wheelchair if needed, and secure your belongings without feeling rushed.
- Gate Checking: Power wheelchairs and scooters are usually gate-checked, meaning you use your device all the way to the aircraft door, and it will be returned to you at the aircraft door upon arrival.
During the Flight
- Seating Accommodations: Airlines cannot exclude you from any seat or force you to sit in a particular seat due to your disability, with the exception of FAA exit-row seating rules.
- Cabin Stowage: Airplanes with 100+ seats must have priority space to stow at least one folding manual wheelchair in the cabin.
Know Your Rights & Problem Solving
- Bill of Rights: Review the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights published by the USDOT, outlining your rights to be treated with dignity and respect.
- Complaints Resolution Official (CRO): If you encounter any problems, ask to speak to a CRO. They are the airline’s designated experts on disability accommodations and are available at no cost, either in person or by telephone.