Travel Guide
Airport Accessibility Guide — Services, Rights & Tips for Travelers with Disabilities
Complete guide to airport accessibility: wheelchair assistance, mobility aids, service animals, sensory rooms, hearing/vision accommodations, and your rights as a traveler with a disability.
Your Rights as a Traveler with a Disability
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) protects travelers with disabilities from discrimination by airlines. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) covers airport facilities. Key rights include:
- Airlines cannot refuse to transport you because of a disability, as long as the flight can accommodate you safely.
- Wheelchair assistance is free and available at every U.S. airport — you can request it at booking, check-in, or at the gate.
- Service animals are permitted in the cabin at no extra charge (airlines may require DOT documentation).
- Airlines must accommodate mobility devices including wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches as checked items at no charge.
- You have the right to pre-board if you need extra time to get settled.
Requesting Wheelchair Assistance
- Request at booking or check-in. Notify your airline that you need wheelchair assistance. You can do this when booking online, calling the airline, or at the airport check-in counter.
- An agent will meet you. A wheelchair attendant will assist you from check-in through security, to your gate, and onto the plane. On arrival, an agent will meet you at the aircraft door.
- It's free. Wheelchair assistance is provided at no charge. Tipping the attendant ($3–5) is customary but not required.
- Allow extra time. Request assistance at least 48 hours before departure and arrive at the airport 30 minutes earlier than you normally would, as arranging assistance can take time during peak periods.
TSA Screening for Travelers with Disabilities
- TSA Cares helpline: Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight for assistance navigating security. TSA can arrange a Passenger Support Specialist to help.
- Wheelchairs and mobility aids go through separate screening. You can remain in your wheelchair through the security process.
- Medical devices (insulin pumps, prosthetics, implants) can go through screening or be inspected by hand — your choice. Inform the officer before screening.
- Hidden disability cards or sunflower lanyards: Many airports recognize hidden disability indicators. While not required, they can signal to staff that you may need extra time or assistance.
Airport Accessibility Features
- Sensory rooms: A growing number of airports (including ATL, PIT, MSP, SEA) offer quiet sensory rooms designed for travelers with autism or sensory processing disorders.
- Service animal relief areas: All U.S. airports have pet/service animal relief areas both pre- and post-security. Ask at an information desk for locations.
- Accessible restrooms: Available throughout all terminals with wider stalls, grab bars, and lower sinks.
- Visual/hearing aids: Many airports have visual paging, hearing loops at gates, and TTY phones. Ask at the information desk about available accommodations.
- Elevators and escalators: All terminals have elevator access between levels. If an elevator is out of service, ask staff for an alternative route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to inform the airline about my disability?
You're not required to disclose a disability, but advance notice (48+ hours) helps ensure appropriate assistance is ready. For wheelchair assistance, mobility device stowage, and service animal travel, advance notification is strongly recommended.
Can I bring my own wheelchair on the plane?
Manual wheelchairs are gate-checked for free and returned at the aircraft door or baggage claim. Battery-powered wheelchairs are checked — airlines must accommodate them, but battery requirements vary (check with your airline). You'll use an airline-provided aisle chair on the plane.
Are service animals allowed on planes?
Yes — trained service dogs are allowed in the cabin at no charge under the Air Carrier Access Act. Airlines may require you to complete a DOT form and the dog must fit at your feet or under the seat. Emotional support animals are no longer guaranteed cabin access.
What if my mobility device is damaged during the flight?
Airlines are liable for damage to mobility devices and must repair or replace them. Report damage immediately at the airline's baggage service office. The airline must provide a loaner device while yours is being repaired. File a written claim within 30 days.