By Mark Raymond Jr.
Split Second Foundation, a nonprofit that provides resources, including inclusive gyms for the disabled and geriatric communities, shares inclusive safety tips and tricks for traveling.
Air travel can be a challenging experience for wheelchair users, but airports that offer accessibility features ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. Here are some essential tips and tricks to make traveling easier.
Booking and Pre-Travel Preparation: When booking a flight, notify the airline of any accessibility needs, including wheelchair assistance and seating accommodations. Arriving at the airport early allows extra time for security screenings and boarding procedures. Checking the airport’s website in advance provides helpful details on accessibility services, including designated entrances and assistance desks.
Accessible Parking and Drop-Off: Most airports offer designated accessible parking spots close to terminal entrances, and pre-booking parking can guarantee availability. Curbside drop-off areas typically have designated wheelchair-accessible loading zones for easier terminal access.
Wheelchair Assistance and Security Screening: To ensure staff availability upon arrival, wheelchair assistance can be requested at the airline’s check-in counter or when booking the ticket. The TSA offers a Disability Notification Card that can be presented to officers to streamline security screenings. Security checkpoints accommodate wheelchair users, and alternative screening methods are available if needed.
Terminal Navigation: Many airports have wheelchair-accessible pathways, ramps, and elevators to assist with navigation. Airport apps often provide interactive maps highlighting accessible restrooms, elevators, and assistance areas. Moving walkways and courtesy shuttles are available in some airports for longer distances between terminals.
Assistance and Customer Service:: Most airports have dedicated accessibility services desks where travelers can request assistance. Airline staff and airport personnel are trained to assist with navigation, baggage handling, and boarding needs.
Boarding the Plane: Pre-boarding is typically offered for wheelchair users, allowing extra time to get settled. Airlines provide aisle chairs to assist with boarding, and bulkhead seating is often available for those needing extra space.
Service Animals: Service animals are allowed in airports and on flights, and it’s recommended to inform the airline in advance of any necessary accommodation. Designated relief areas for service animals are available within most terminals.
Emergency Protocols: In case of an emergency, airline and airport staff are trained to assist wheelchair users with evacuation procedures. Familiarizing yourself with emergency exit locations and procedures before the flight can be beneficial.
By planning ahead and utilizing airport accessibility services, wheelchair users and travelers with mobility challenges can have a stress-free and comfortable flying experience.
20.6 million Americans live with some form of ambulatory disability, requiring a mobility device. Many of these people face an isolated world with few social interactions, health complications, a higher risk of suicide, a shorter life expectancy, and few places to turn to for assistance. Split Second Foundation, a Louisiana-based non-profit 501(c)(3), helps provide support, recovery tools and tactics, ongoing fitness exercise, education, and answers to people with a disability or medical condition.
Mark Raymond Jr. is CEO and founder of Split Second Foundation.
