Air Travel Tips for Wheelchair Users

​For most wheelchair users, air travel is very challenging and stressful. It is one of the reasons why some people with a disability sometimes just give up and avoid it entirely. There are certain steps you can do to make sure your travel can go smoothly.

​During the Booking Process
When booking your ticket, there are a few things to keep in mind before you purchase your ticket. Either inquire or review the policies of the airline with regards to passengers with disabilities. There are some airlines who implements weight restrictions not just on your luggage, but on wheelchairs as well.

You should also plan ahead on where you prefer to be seated. It is advisable to take an aisle or bulkhead seats which provide more room to manoeuvre.
 
Going Through the Airport
You can talk to your airline prior to your flight’s scheduled to request assistance as soon as you get to the airport. All passengers who are unable to walk or stand must go through a pat-down at the TSA checkpoint. Once that you re at the gate, you can inform the agent to let you proceed for pre-boarding. Passengers with disabilities are first to board and last to deplane.
 
Turning Over Your Wheelchair
Wheelchairs are to be turned over to the airline personnel before boarding the plane. Make sure to remove all detachable items like cushions, and other parts. This will help the personnel in handling your wheelchair easily. Upon receiving it, immediately inspect for damages and notify the airline if there are any problems.
 
Using the Facilities
Accessing the bathroom on the plane can be quite difficult. Planes rarely have the configurations needed to accommodate people with disabilities. Some have aisles that are too narrow for a wheelchair. You would need to use an onboard wheelchair to go to the restroom.
 
The flight attendant can help you move down the aisle, but they cannot assist you in transferring to the toilet and in your personal care. What you can do is to make sure to use the bathroom before you board the plane.
 
Your disability should not hinder you from getting to places. There is much to see and do in this world; that is why you need disability insurance.
 
At Employee Solutions Group, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (833) ESG - SERV. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.