Can you gate check a wheelchair?

Planes have a designated space to hold 1 collapsible wheelchair. Mobility devices can also be stored overhead or under your seat. Non-collapsible wheelchairs, scooters or other battery-powered wheelchairs can be checked at the ticket counter or departure gate.



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If you are able to stand or walk for a short distance, you may choose to walk through the scanners and then get back in your wheelchair as soon as you're on the other side. If you have to stay in your chair the entire time, security may choose to use a “pat down” screening.

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We recommend that you request wheelchair assistance in advance, by selecting 'Add special assistance' when booking or managing your trip online. You can also let a team member at the airport know on the day of travel that you need wheelchair assistance.

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Do I have to pay extra to fly with a wheelchair? It's free to check up to two wheelchairs, scooters or mobility devices, including sports wheelchairs and personal medical equipment, in addition to your checked bags. We recommend any mobility device not needed for assistance to your gate be checked in the airport lobby.

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The 1986 Air Carrier Access Act requires airlines to provide free wheelchair service to any traveler who asks for it, without requiring a description or documentation for that need.

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For example, a carrier may ask the passenger: “How does the requested wheelchair service assist with your disability?” If the passenger does not have a disability, the carrier may refuse to provide the wheelchair service.

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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.

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A: Most airlines allow passengers with a disability, including those who use a wheelchair, to board first. This enables you to take your time and find adequate space for your luggage or equipment. However, the policy may vary depending on the airline and the flight.

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While wheelchair users face the same T.S.A. rigmarole as other passengers, their trip through security is often expedited. There are no statistics to show how many people request wheelchairs at airports each year, but only a small percentage of those travelers appear to be engaged in deceit.

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There are no big wheels to push so you will need a flight attendant to push you. There is at least one accessible bathroom onboard which is big enough to fit the aisle chair in. Flight attendants can help you transfer if you need it. They'll appreciate it if you do not ask for assistance while they are serving meals.

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Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights A person with a disability may have a physical or mental impairment that impacts a major life activity - such as walking, hearing, or breathing. This may be on a permanent or temporary basis.

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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.

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We recommend that you request wheelchair assistance in advance, by selecting 'Add special assistance' when booking or managing your trip online. You can also let a team member at the airport know on the day of travel that you need wheelchair assistance.

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4. 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.

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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.

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To use this service, please contact the carrier during the booking process or directly before the flight. You can do it by phone or by filling a special form (among other things, you must provide knowledge about the medical condition of the passenger, including the need to provide him with a wheelchair). Attention!

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Some of the difficulties he faced while flying include dealing with untrained staff and instances where his wheelchair has been damaged. “I have to worry about my body parts falling out of the aisle chairs or being banged into the walls,” he said. In some cases, flying can have catastrophic consequences.

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