Accessible Travel

Accessibility Travel Checklist

By Barbara Ballard

As Susan Sygall and Tracey Sharn point out in their introduction to their selection of the best accessibility travel resources, physically disabled travelers need to do some planning before they go on a trip.

Before you leave: Make a checklist to identify your needs. Then search for travel providers and agents who know about and can accommodate those needs. Confirm arrangements (in writing, if possible).

• Is an onboard wheelchair provided?
• Do you need a seat with a moveable armrest? Request special seating, if required. You may need extra space to store a walker or crutches. If the seat you need is already assigned, you may, by law, request that it be reassigned to you.
• Arrange ahead of time to have your wheelchair checked as priority baggage.
• Do you need room on the plane to store a walker?
• Is help with check-in available?
• What ground transport is available to and from the airport and between airports and gates?
• Where is special parking for handicapped located? Maps of terminals can be obtained ahead of time from the airport, a travel agent or from the Internet.

Once on board, it’s important to know that airlines do not generally provide services to help with eating, drinking, taking medication, or help inside a washroom.

A medical attendant may receive a reduced fare, but medical documents are needed as proof when booking your flight. Check into airlines that offer permanent medical cards (called a FREMEC). You are not required to pay extra for any disabled services; however, hookup for a respirator and stretcher travel are not services airlines must provide. Don’t take anything for granted.

For international travel, service dogs require a health certificate and proof of vaccination. Some countries (including Britain) do not allow service dogs.

After arrival: Check your wheelchair or electric cart before you leave the airport. Airlines are responsible for their repair, but you must deal with any problems at the airport on arrival.

Barbara Ballard
Victoria, B.C.