How do wheelchair users get on and off a plane?

Passengers who are non-ambulatory can still fly, but they'll need help getting to and from their seat on the airplane. The aisle chair (also referred to as a straight back or high back) is a small wheelchair that is used to transport immobile passengers from their own wheelchair to a seat on the airplane.



People Also Ask

The roomier bulkhead seating might be an option for some, just be aware the armrests do not raise. Also, keep in mind that wheelchair users exit the aircraft last. The deplaning process can easily take 25 minutes or more, so when booking a connecting flight, always allow ample time.

MORE DETAILS

The Airplane Platform Lift has been designed to facilitate the transfer of people with reduced mobility in and out of aeroplanes. The lift is equipped with a foldable platform that allows the easy lifting of wheelchairs on plane stairs.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

You are entitled to stay in your own wheelchair until you get to the gate. At the gate, your wheelchair will be taken from you. If you cannot walk, you will be transported to your aircraft seat in an aisle chair. Your wheelchair will be returned to you at the gate once you reach your destination.

MORE DETAILS

For many people, a minimum tip is expected, but it can be increased if the trek to the gate is longer or security is a hassle. Are you wondering how much to tip an airport wheelchair attendant? A reasonable minimum is $5, especially if you only have one attendant.

MORE DETAILS

Airline employees and booking agents will assume the front row is best for a disabled passenger, but the row behind the bulkhead (with movable aisle armrests) may be more comfortable.

MORE DETAILS

Airlines are required to accept for transport at least one manual wheelchair in aircraft with 100 or more seats. If your wheelchair does not fit in the cabin of the aircraft, airline personnel are required to stow it in the cargo portion of the aircraft free of charge.

MORE DETAILS

Airlines damage thousands of wheelchairs every year. According to the most recent data from the Department of Transportation, in January alone, U.S. airlines reported mishandling 871 wheelchairs or scooters, or about 1.6% of those taken on domestic flights.

MORE DETAILS

In more understandable terms, US airlines lose or damage about 950 wheelchairs and scooters monthly, more than 31 per day. On average, that's more than 1.5 percent of the wheelchairs and scooters they handle annually.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

If your flight is within 72 hours, please call TSA Cares (855) 787-2227 to request assistance. TSA Cares assistance is only available for assistance through the screening checkpoint. If you need in-flight assistance or wheelchair assistance from the curb to the aircraft, please contact your airline.

MORE DETAILS