If you or a loved one needs wheelchair assistance at the airport, rest assured that most major airlines offer services to make your journey smooth. The key is knowing the procedure for requesting assistance and planning ahead. Here’s an updated guide for requesting wheelchair services across major airlines, including essential details and tips to enjoy a smooth travel experience.

General Steps to Request Wheelchair Assistance

• Request in Advance: Always notify the airline about your need for wheelchair assistance when booking your ticket or as soon as possible afterward. Most airlines allow you to add this request online under “Manage My Booking” or by contacting customer service.
• Arrive Early: Airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights to allow enough time for assistance.
• Notify Staff Upon Arrival: Once at the airport, inform a staff member or a representative at the ticket counter about your request for wheelchair assistance.
• Prepare for Security Screening: Wheelchair users must go through TSA screening. Inform security officers about your needs.

Wheelchair Assistance by Airline

1. Alaska Airlines

• How to Request: Wheelchairs and escorts are available at all airports. Call customer service or notify a representative at the airport.
• Important Details:
  • Electric carts may be available at select locations.
  • Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
  • No curbside assistance; a companion must notify staff inside the terminal.

2. Allegiant Air

• How to Request: Complete the Customer Request for Assistance Form or call the Reservations Center at 702-505-8888.
• Additional Info: Allegiant encourages passengers to notify staff well in advance for timely assistance.

3. American Airlines

• How to Request: Add wheelchair assistance when booking or by calling customer service. You can also notify a staff member on the day of travel.
• Key Services:
  • Assistance is provided to/from gates, between connecting gates, and to baggage claim.

4. Delta Air Lines

• How to Request: Request wheelchair assistance through My Trips on Delta’s website or call 404-209-3434.
• Key Features:
  • Dedicated wheelchair assistants guide passengers through the terminal, security, and boarding.
  • Assistance available at the gate for boarding.

5. Frontier Airlines

• How to Request: Contact Frontier via their Contact Us page or notify a skycap at curbside or a ticket counter representative upon arrival.
• Additional Info: Plan to arrive early for timely service.

6. Hawaiian Airlines

• How to Request: Call 800-367-5320 at least 48 hours in advance.
• Key Features:
  • Wheelchair escorts are provided without a fee.
  • Visit the Guests with Disabilities page for detailed information.

7. JetBlue Airways

• How to Request: Contact JetBlue’s customer service or request assistance during booking.
• Key Features:
  • Wheelchair service available at curbside, gates, and baggage claim.
  • Personal wheelchairs can be delivered either at the gate or baggage claim, depending on your preference.

8. Southwest Airlines

• How to Request: Add a wheelchair request when booking or inform a representative upon arrival at the airport.
• Key Features:
  • Assistance available to/from gates and for connecting flights.

9. Spirit Airlines

• How to Request: Contact Spirit by calling or texting 855-728-3555.
• Important Notes:
  • Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights.
  • Service is typically provided within 20 minutes of a request.

10. United Airlines

• How to Request: Request assistance through My Trips or notify staff at the ticket counter.
• Key Features:
  • Manual wheelchairs are available at all airports.
  • Some airports have wheelchair assistance centers.

Tips for Smooth Wheelchair Assistance at Airports

• Plan Ahead: Book your wheelchair assistance early and reconfirm it a few days before your flight.
• Bring Documentation: Keep your flight details, ID, and confirmation emails handy for quick assistance.
• Allow Extra Time: Arrive earlier than the recommended time to avoid rushing through the airport.
• Pack Smart: Carry essential items like medications, travel documents, and snacks in an easy-to-access bag.
• Stay Informed: Check the airline’s website for updated policies, especially during peak travel times or for international travel.

FAQs About Wheelchair Assistance at Airports

Q. Does wheelchair assistance at the airport cost money?
Ans. Airlines tend to provide wheelchair assistance without an extra fee. However, tipping the attendant is customary in some regions.

Q. Can I request assistance for connecting flights?
Ans. Absolutely. Airlines offer assistance for transfers between gates, even at large or complex airports.

Q. How far in advance should I request wheelchair assistance?
Ans. It’s wise to request assistance when booking your flight or at least 48 hours before departure.

Q. Are wheelchairs sanitized?
Ans. Airlines follow strict sanitation protocols, especially since the onset of COVID-19, ensuring wheelchairs are clean and safe.

By planning ahead and understanding your airline’s wheelchair assistance policies, you can make your airport experience smoothly. It’s a good idea to let the airline know in advance for timely and efficient service.