Flying with a wheelchair

• The Air Carrier Access Act bans airlines from discriminating against people with disabilities.
• Airlines must help you board, change planes, and get off, and cannot charge you for that help.
• Your wheelchair, walker, and other mobility aids fly free and do not count toward your bag limit.
• Every airline must have a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) available at the airport, in person or by phone. Ask for one if something goes wrong.

• Tell the airline about your wheelchair and the help you need when you book, and again at least 48 hours before you fly. Some services can require 48 hours' notice.
• Know your wheelchair's size, weight, and battery type. Airlines need this for power chairs.
• Tape a sheet to the chair with your name, flight, and simple instructions for moving it, like how to put it in freewheel.
• Take photos of the chair before the trip.
• TSA Cares can help you get through security: call 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before you fly.

• Ask to stay in your own chair to the gate, and ask to have it gate-checked.
• Take off removable parts like cushions, armrests, and joysticks, and carry them on.
• Ask for your chair to be brought back to the plane door when you land.

1. Check your chair before you leave the airport. Report damage to the airline right away and get a file number.
2. Ask for the CRO.
3. Ask the airline for a loaner chair that works for you, and for repair or replacement.

A DOT rule that took effect on January 16, 2025 says airlines must:

• let you choose between a repair or replacement the airline arranges and a vendor you choose,
• pay for a suitable loaner wheelchair while yours is fixed,
• get a delayed chair to you quickly, and rebook you for free if it will not fit on the plane you booked.