How much do airlines charge for a wheelchair?
Do I have to pay extra to fly with a wheelchair? It's free to check up to two wheelchairs, scooters or assistive devices, as well as any medical equipment, in addition to your checked bags. However, baggage charges may apply for checking additional wheelchairs or assistive devices, including those used for sports.
Can I carry my own wheelchair? If customers wish to use their own wheelchair at the airport, they are permitted to do so up to the aircraft, whereupon it will be stored in the baggage hold area. Customers with a disability may use their own manual powered wheelchair till the aircraft door.
Call your airline and request wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours before your trip begins. If possible, call earlier. The customer service representative will put a "requires special assistance" note in your reservation record and tell your departure, arrival and transfer airports to provide a wheelchair.
Don't forget to tip.
Thank a wheelchair attendant with $3 to $5, or more if he or she helps with luggage or spends extra time with you. For an electric cart, tip $2 to $3.
| Airline | Overall Rank (Revised) | Disability Complaints |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | 1 | 2 |
| Southwest | 2 | 1 |
| United | 3 | 3 |
| Alaska | 4 | 4 |
Can airlines ask for proof of disability? Airlines cannot ask what your disability is, but they may ask how it will impact your ability to reach your gate, board the plane, or exit the plane. No proof of disability is required.
Airlines are required to allow people with disabilities to fly on their aircraft — and it's completely free of charge.
Yes. You may bring your assistive device with you on an airplane and stow it in the passenger compartment in the following locations: In an overhead compartment; Under the seat in front of you; or.
You cannot take your own wheelchair into the passenger cabin of a plane - it will be stored in the hold. Speak to your airline to find out what help they'll provide when boarding. Tell your airline, travel agent or tour operator as soon as possible if you're taking on a battery-powered wheelchair or mobility aid.
Bulkhead seating typically works best for wheelchair users since it's the first row of seats in economy class. By requesting a bulkhead seat, you can avoid being wheeled farther back in the plane, and the bulkhead seats usually allow more legroom and space to transfer.
How to get a wheelchair at the airport United?
If passengers need to have a wheelchair then provide all the related information to the airport staff. After you check-in, the airport staff will provide you with a wheelchair to assist the disabled person to the airline hassle-free.
What is a special assistance? This is the assistance that the airport employee provides to the passenger. Disabled persons with reduced mobility may use this service. Depending on the needs of the passenger, the employee can help him in the check-in process and when boarding the plane.
Wheelchair service: If you or a family member requires the services of an airport wheelchair attendant to get to or between gates and/or onto or off of an airplane, it's customary to give that person a $3-$5 tip or more depending on how long that person stays with you and how much assistance they provide.
Medical supplies or equipment are allowed on board as additional items at no extra charge. Some medical items can be carried on the plane, as an "additional carry-on item", as long as they meet the standard size and weight limits.
The Air Carrier Access Act establishes a right for passengers to take their personal wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers to the airport gate and the aircraft boarding door. This right to gate-check mobility equipment covers all devices, including electric wheelchairs.
This inquiry of the passenger would take place at the airport and must not be focused on the nature of the passenger's disability. For example, a carrier may ask the passenger: “How does the requested wheelchair service assist with your disability?”
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| WCHS (Wheel Chair Stair) | Passenger cannot use stairs and needs a wheelchair or other means of transport for longer distances. |
| WCHC (Wheel Chair Completely) | Passenger needs a wheelchair. |
| Deaf | Passenger with hearing loss. |
| Blind | Passenger with vision loss. |
Walkers are carried as checked baggage free of charge. You do not need to check your walker until you are at the gate. You can request a wheelchair in advance if you need assistance moving around the airport.
As the flight prepares to board, airline crew wheel three elderly women on regular airport wheelchairs — the type of chair intended for use by those who can't walk long distances — down the jet bridge to board the plane first.
The Notification Card is intended to describe your health condition, disability or medical device to the TSA officer in a discreet manner, helping to ensure your privacy. You also have the option of having your security screening done in private.
What qualifies as a disability for pre boarding?
Re: pre boarding rules
Preboarding is available for Customers who have a specific seating need to accommodate their disability and/or need assistance in boarding the aircraft or stowing an assistive device. Customers who are traveling with assistance and emotional support animals qualify for preboarding!
Airlines do not charge for wheelchair assistance, but you must notify your airline in advance.
Before Your Trip
Make sure to have let your airline know you will be traveling with a mobility scooter at least 48 hours before your flight. Transporting a mobility scooter on an airplane is free, and on top of this, according to the FAA and ADA, there are no additional baggage fees to transport your medical devices.
If you're a passenger with a disability or reduced mobility you are legally entitled to support, commonly known as 'Special Assistance', when travelling by air. This means airports and airlines must provide help and assistance, which is free of charge, and helps ensure you have a less stressful journey.
