Can I check a wheelchair on American Airlines?
Yes, you can check a wheelchair on American Airlines. The airline will accept manual and electric wheelchairs, including scooters, as checked baggage. American Airlines will also provide assistance with gate-checking a wheelchair if it cannot be stowed in the cabin. The fee for gate-checking a wheelchair on American Airlines is $125.
When traveling with a wheelchair, it's recommended to notify American Airlines in advance of your flight, so they can make necessary arrangements for your trip. It's also good to provide the airline with the dimensions and weight of the wheelchair, so they can plan for adequate space on the aircraft.
It's also important to note that American Airlines will not accept certain types of mobility devices for gate-checking or checked baggage, such as mobility scooters with lithium-ion batteries.
You can check with American Airlines for more information and details about traveling with a wheelchair.
Can we book a wheelchair in American airlines?
Yes, it is possible to request a wheelchair at American Airlines, both when booking your flight and at the airport.
When booking your flight, you can request a wheelchair during the booking process, either online, through the American Airlines app, or by calling American Airlines reservations. You will be asked if you need any special assistance, select "yes" and then select "Wheelchair" from the list of options. You will be prompted to provide details about your needs, such as the type of wheelchair you use, and whether you need assistance boarding or deplaning.
If you did not request a wheelchair when you booked your flight, you can still request one at the airport. Go to the American Airlines check-in counter and let the agent know that you need a wheelchair. They will provide you with a wheelchair and assist you through the airport, including security, and to your gate.
It's important to note that American Airlines allows you to request a wheelchair up to 48 hours before your flight. Requesting a wheelchair in advance guarantees that a wheelchair will be available for you when you arrive.
How do airlines handle people in wheelchairs?
Chuck chairs stack alongside the passenger's own wheelchair for easy side-to-side transfer. If you are unable to transfer yourself, you may choose to have a wheelchair assist on a chair of dependency.
How do you ask for wheelchair access?
When requesting a wheelchair, it's important to be clear and specific about your needs. Here are some things you can say when requesting a wheelchair access:
- "I would like to request a wheelchair, please."
- "I have mobility issues and will need assistance with a wheelchair."
- "I use a (manual/electric) wheelchair and will need help boarding and exiting the plane."
- "I have difficulty walking long distances, and I would like to request a wheelchair for airport assistance."
- "I would like to request special seating arrangements and a wheelchair for boarding and deplaning."
You can also ask for additional assistance you may need such as help with carrying bags, assistance getting to and from the gate, or special seating arrangements.
It's important to inform the airline as early as possible, ideally when you book your flight so they can have a wheelchair ready for you and make necessary arrangements.
How much do airlines charge for a wheelchair?
Most airlines do not charge a fee for passengers to bring their own wheelchairs, but may charge a fee for additional services such as gate-checking a wheelchair or providing a wheelchair for the duration of the flight.
Here are some examples of cost from major airlines:
- American Airlines: No charge for bringing your own wheelchair, but a fee of $125 for gate-checking a wheelchair.
- Delta Air Lines: No charge for bringing your own wheelchair, but a fee of $75 for gate-checking a wheelchair.
- United Airlines: No charge for bringing your own wheelchair, but a fee of $125 for gate-checking a wheelchair.
- Southwest Airlines: No charge for bringing your own wheelchair, but a fee of $75 for gate-checking a wheelchair.
It's best to check with the specific airline you are traveling with to find out their policy regarding wheelchair cost, as it can change over time. Some airlines may waive or reduce fees for passengers with disabilities, or offer additional services such as providing a wheelchair escort from the gate to the lavatory.
It's also worth noting that the cost for gate-checking a wheelchair may be different for international flights.
You can also check with the TSA for information about traveling with a wheelchair.