How to Get a Wheelchair on American Airlines
- After Booking. When booking your flight on the American Airlines website, you can note a request for assistance on your reservation, and the special assistance team will contact you.
- Reserved Seating. ...
- Batteries. ...
- Day of Flight. ...
Full Answer
How to request a wheelchair or cart at the airport?
Wheelchair Information
- Delta-Provided Wheelchair Services. We can assist you each step of the way. ...
- Personal Wheelchair Service. To accommodate all of our customers, we transport all types of personal wheelchairs, including manual and battery-powered wheelchairs, carts, scooters, any accompanying prosthetic devices and other assistive ...
- Accessibility on the Airplane. ...
How to travel by air with a wheelchair?
how to travel by air with a wheelchair Normally you can use your own wheelchair as far as the boarding point of the aircraft, where you will transfer to a special aisle chair. If you are able to walk a short distance, you should request a seat near the entrance doors.
How do I get a wheelchair assistance on American Airlines?
How do I get wheelchair assistance on American Airlines? You can request a wheelchair or make special travel arrangements on American Airlines by calling their Reservations Department at 1-800-433-7300. Call 800-735-2988 for assistance if you are deaf or hard of hearing.
How to request wheelchair?
Request special assistance during booking. Choose "special assistance required" when filling out your passenger details to: Request wheelchair service; Request individual assistance if you have a hearing, vision, cognitive or developmental disability; Notify us you’re traveling with electronic medical devices or a service animal
See more
How do I contact wheelchair assistance from American Airlines?
Calling the hotline for air travelers with disabilities at 800-778-4838 or 800-455-9880 (TTY) Calling the Aviation Consumer Protection Division at 202-366-2220 or 202-366-0511 (TTY)
How do you request a wheelchair at the airport?
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.
How do you book a wheelchair when booking a flight?
If you want to request a wheelchair, you must submit your request at the time of booking/reservation. If you're bringing your own wheelchair, inform the airline authorities on the size, weight and type of wheelchair at the time of booking/reservation.
How do I get immediate assistance on American Airlines?
Please contact Reservations at 1-800-433-7300 to arrange for assistance.
How much do you tip an airport wheelchair attendant?
$3-$5Wheelchair 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.
Do airlines charge for wheelchair assistance?
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.
How do I book assistance at the airport?
When you arrive at the airport you should go to as assistance point. This can be inside or outside of the terminal. Assistance points will usually have some type of disability related logo, and include a buzzer or telephone to enable you to call for assistance should they not be staffed at that time.
What is special assistance at airport?
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.
How do disabled passengers fly?
Airlines are also required to provide passengers with disabilities many types of assistance, including wheelchair or other guided assistance to board, deplane, or connect to another flight; seating accommodation assistance that meets passengers' disability-related needs; and assistance with the loading and stowing of ...
Does airline have to pay for hotel?
But unfortunately, in the United States, there are no laws or regulations that compel any airline to provide a free hotel or any other compensation in the event of a flight delay.
How long is the wait time for American Airlines?
At American, an AAdvantage Executive Platinum member on the TPG team has been able to connect to an agent with wait times ranging from just 50 seconds to eight minutes, while non-elite members of the team have had waits as low as five minutes.
Is there a live chat for American Airlines?
Chat with us Connect with us in a live chat session. When we're unavailable, you can also get 24 / 7 virtual help for quick answers to your travel questions.
What is special assistance on American Airlines?
A dedicated team of people known as special assistance coordinators is housed within the reservations department.
How early can you check in for batteries on American Airlines?
As each chair is slightly different, consider providing written instructions. Check in at least an hour before departure to allow time for the batteries ...
Can you carry a walker on a plane?
If an assistant device--such as a walker or crutches--can fit safely on-board under a seat or in an overhead compartment, passengers can bring it as carry-on luggage, according to the policies of airlines such as Delta and Southwest. Medical devices are subject to security screening, but do not count toward a passenger’s limit of carry-on luggage. Keep in mind that some types of oxygen cannot be carried on-board or checked as luggage due to safety concerns; if you require portable oxygen, check with your airline to be sure that it meets safety requirements.
Can you use a wheelchair at an airport?
If you decided not to travel with your own wheelchair, you can use airline-issued wheelchairs to maneuver safely throughout the airport. No matter what type of wheelchair you use, once you arrive at the aircraft boarding door, airline crew members will assist you into a special needs chair designed to move efficiently through airplane aisles.
Do canes count toward carry-on baggage?
Assistive devices such as a walker or cane are allowed on board and do not count toward the carry-on baggage limit. Aisle chairs are provided on all American Airlines planes and are available throughout the flight as needed. References. American Airlines: Special Assistance. Writer Bio.
Can you bring an emotional support animal on a plane?
Arrangements for emotional support animals, while allowed on-board, must be made in advance. Airlines such as Continental require at least 48 hours notice before a passenger can bring an emotional support animal on-board; this time frame is required so airline personnel can verify the required medical documentation as valid.
Can you fly with a disability?
It’s not easy to fly with a physical handicap or emotional disability , but the policies of airlines such as Continental, Delta and Southwest offer a number of provisions for customers with all types of disabilities. Arrangements may be required for passengers who plan to travel with battery-operated wheelchairs, according to the Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality. Handicapped passengers are eligible for “pre-boarding,” which enables the customer and airline crew members to attend to any of their immediate needs, before others board the plane.
How long before a flight do you need to get a hearing aid?
State if you’re traveling with a service animal. Keep in mind, notice and approval is required at least 48 hours before your flight.
What is a special assistance coordinator?
Special assistance coordinators are available to help with medical or special-assistance related items during your travel. If you requested special assistance during booking, a special assistance coordinator will contact you before your flight to ensure necessary medical paperwork requirements or requests are complete.
How to contact the National Relay Service?
For hearing or speech-impaired assistance: 800-735-2988. Contact Reservations for all other questions. Contact Reservations. Dial 711 to be connected through the National Relay Service.
What does a wheelchair assistant do at an airport?
If your airport has skycaps at the departures curb, you can also request a wheelchair from them to get you through security and to your gate.
How long do you have to be on a plane to board a wheelchair?
Those transporting non-electric or non-battery-powered wheelchairs, carts, or scooters must be checked in and you must be available to board at least 30 minutes before your flight departs. For more information on specific airline wheelchair policies, see the links below.
What are the requirements for disabled passengers?
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, anyone who self-identifies as disabled to airport personnel is entitled to assistance moving throughout the airport. However airlines use four designations to determine which type of wheelchair or cart assistance is needed: 1 Passengers who can walk onto a plane but need help getting from the terminal to the aircraft. 2 Passengers who can’t navigate stairs, but can walk onboard a plane and who need a wheelchair to move between an aircraft and a terminal. 3 Passengers with a disability of their lower limbs that can take care of themselves, but need help boarding and departing from a plane. 4 Passengers that are completely immobile and need help from the time they get to the airport through to the time they need to board the aircraft.
How early can you board a plane?
Those with their own electric or battery-powered wheelchairs, carts, or scooters must have them checked in and be available to board your aircraft at least 45 minutes before departure.
How far in advance do you have to request a wheelchair?
Most airlines ask that you make wheelchair or cart requests at least 48 hours in advance. Last minute requests may not be accommodated by the airline.
Can you use a wheelchair at the airport?
Using a Wheelchair or Cart at the Airport. When you arrive at the airport let airport personnel know that you require wheelchair assistance. If your wheelchair/cart reservation was properly made, the airline check-in desk should have a wheelchair ready. Many airlines provide wheelchair assistants for travelers who require a wheelchair ...
Do airlines have wheelchairs?
Airlines also have special wheelchairs to help people board an aircraft and some airlines have plane-specific wheelchairs so that guests can be mobile on the flight. Upon arrival there will be people waiting with wheelchairs on the jet bridge. Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight is scheduled ...
How to request wheelchair assistance?
Wheelchair and Guided Assistance Tips 1 You should make reservations as early as possible and advise the airline what type of assistance you will need. For example, you should indicate whether you need wheelchair assistance or guided assistance. 2 Request an airport wheelchair when you make your reservation if you are unable to walk long distances. 3 If you travel with a battery-powered wheelchair, you must arrive at the airport 1 hour prior to the normal check-in time. 4 Confirm your accessibility needs with all airlines involved in your journey.
When to request a wheelchair at an airport?
Request an airport wheelchair when you make your reservation if you are unable to walk long distances. If you travel with a battery-powered wheelchair, you must arrive at the airport 1 hour prior to the normal check-in time. Confirm your accessibility needs with all airlines involved in your journey.
What is a CRO in disability?
If you believe your rights under the Air Carrier Access Act are being or have been violated, ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Official (CRO). A CRO is the airline’s expert on disability accommodation issues. Airlines are required to make one available to you, at no cost, in person at the airport or by telephone during the times they are operating.
How long can you leave a disabled passenger on an airplane?
When an airline is providing assistance to a passenger who is not independently mobile because of a disability , the airline must not leave the passenger unattended for more than 30 minutes . This requirement applies even if another person is accompanying the passenger, unless the passenger explicitly states that it is okay for the airline to leave them unattended for more than 30 minutes.
When providing assistance to passengers with disabilities who are navigating the airport, are airlines required to assist passengers in carrying their gate
When providing assistance to passengers with disabilities who are navigating the airport, airlines are required to assist passengers in carrying their gate-checked or carry-on luggage when passengers are unable to carry the luggage due to their disability.
Do you need to self-identify when you arrive at the airport?
When you arrive at the airport, it is important that you self-identify as a passenger with a disability needing assistance. Although the airline may have notated in your reservation that you need assistance, the airline will not know that you are the person who requested that assistance if you do not self-identify.
Do you have to stop at the bathroom on a plane?
Yes. If you request to stop at the bathroom on your way to a departing flight, the airline personnel assisting you is required to stop at the entrance to a bathroom. However, the airline personnel is required to stop only if the bathroom is on the way to your destination and the stop can be made without an unreasonable delay.
How to contact United for wheelchair assistance?
You should call United at +1 (800) 228-2744 to request wheelchair assistance. Be prepared with either your flight number and date of travel or the confirmation code/PNR (6 digits). O'Hare is a United hub and you should be able to make the connection.
What to do after purchasing an airline ticket?
After purchasing your airline ticket, you’ll need to contact the airline to request any special assistance that you will need at the airport. Be sure to review the list of airline special assistance request codes before calling the air carrier.
How long should I layover for a connecting flight?
If your trip will have a connecting flight, I recommend a layover of at least 90 minutes. This will allow you the time to move to your next departure gate and use the restroom. If you plan to travel by air with a disability, you should provide your airline with advance notice.
What is proper notice for an airline?
Proper notice allows the air carrier time to make necessary preparations, ensuring that your accessibility needs are met. Travelers should also familiarize themselves with the disability services and policies specific to their airline. After purchasing your airline ticket, you’ll need to contact the airline to request any special assistance ...
Is Chicago Midway wheelchair accessible?
Hi Frank, All of the assistance you described is mandated by the Air Carrier Access Act - so yes, it will be available to him at Chicago-Midway. Just be sure to request wheelchair assistance from the airline in advance. see more. Show more replies.
How much notice do you need to give for a wheelchair?
Although airlines prefer to have 48 to 72 hours ' notice, you can ask for a wheelchair when you arrive at the airport check-in counter. Give yourself plenty of extra time if you must request wheelchair assistance at the last minute.
How many passengers can you have on an airplane?
You will have more seating and restroom options available to you on an airplane that seats more than 60 passengers and / or has two or more aisles. Call your airline and request wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours before your trip begins. If possible, call earlier.
What to do if you can't walk through the screening?
If you cannot walk through the screening device or stand with your arms over your head, you will need to undergo a pat-down screening . You can request a private pat-down. Your wheelchair will be examined, too. Expect to check your personal wheelchair, if you use one, at the boarding gate.
Why is it so hard to walk before a flight?
There are times when you might need extra help to get to and from your flights. Perhaps you are recovering from surgery or have a health condition that makes walking difficult. You may have tripped a day or two before your flight, making the trek through the airport extremely painful.
Can you use a wheelchair on an airplane?
Airlines do not permit passengers to use their own wheelchairs during flight. If your wheelchair requires disassembly, bring instructions. If you need wheelchair assistance on the airplane, you will probably board before most other passengers.
Do you need to use the restroom on a connecting flight?
If you need to use the restroom on the way to your connecting flight, state that you are a traveler with a disability and you need to stop at a restroom. The wheelchair attendant will take you to a restroom that is on the way to your departure gate.
Do foreign airlines have wheelchairs?
Regulations vary in other countries, but most major airlines offer some type of wheelchair assistance.
10 Easy Steps to Arranging Wheelchair Assistance at the Airport
Know what is available for passengers who require wheelchair assistance at the airport.
What are the SSR Codes for Wheelchair Airport Assistance?
The SSR (special service request) system is used for a number of services by airlines. It is used to track all requests made for special assistance by passengers on board an aircraft.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wheelchair Assistance at an Airport
Most airlines allow individuals with disabilities and medical conditions to board before others. However, there is no Federal requirement for making passengers with disabilities board the airplane first.
How to get a wheelchair on a plane?
1. Check your bags, or ship your luggage separately. A single, light carry-on makes for an easier wheelchair trip. 2. Consider your connections. If you use the transport service, you will be the last off the plane, so don’t book a flight with a connection that’s less than an hour away. 3. Bring your own food.
How much to tip a wheelchair attendant?
Bring your own food. Your attendant is not required to take you to a restaurant or food stand. 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. For an electric cart, tip $2 to $3.
How long before a flight do you call the airline?
To ensure swift service, it's best to call the airline at least 48 hours before your trip and request transport service to the gate. If you forget, you can request service when you check in for your flight, but don't be surprised if an attendant is not available right away.
Do airlines require wheelchairs?
Federal law requires airlines that operate in the U.S. (that's right — airlines, not the airport) to provide a wheelchair or motorized cart and attendant for any passenger who requests it.
