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There are added obstacles for the air traveler with a disability. From making sure that
your wheelchair arrives intact, to ensuring that your service animal is
not disrupted during the flight, the skies can seem altogether unfriendly
to the traveler with physical challenges.
Can air travel be
accessible? With lots of preparation and advance planning, we can move the
answer to this question towards a yes. We'll look at some of the aspects
of air travel, and air travel tips, that may help make your flying
experience a better one.
How do airlines address travel concerns for
passengers with a physical disability? Most airlines endeavor to provide
accessibility for all passengers, whether it be through government
legislation requiring them to do so, or by the realization that it makes
good sense to accommodate all passengers and build customer loyalty. Most
airlines permit service animals to travel in the passenger cabin and rest
at the feet of the owner. There is usually no fee involved (unlike regular
pets that travel as cargo for which a fee is usually assessed), but it is
important to notify the airline in advance in order to guarantee
appropriate seating. And although it is not
readily disclosed information, the majority of airlines will not bump
passengers who have a physical restriction; in effect, the airline will do
all possible to make sure that a disabled traveler gets a seat on the
flight that they have booked.
Most airlines do not require that a
self-reliant passenger travel with a companion or have a doctor's
certificate. Airlines do often offer discounted fares for an attendant or
companion to travel with you if required. Visually impaired passengers are
allowed to travel with their canes or working dog. Passengers with a disability can travel with their service animal. And for those
traveling with wheelchairs or other mobility equipment, these items are
usually accepted without charge. Wheelchairs and non-motorized mobility
aids are most often permitted to be used up until the passenger is at the
door of the aircraft and then will be brought to the cabin door upon
arrival.
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