Sometimes the anxiety over long dashes through crowded airports and long periods standing in immigration and check-in lines make older grandparents reluctant to join family travel. Airport assistance can make travel as easy for them as it is for you.
In some airports, the distance between arrival and departure gates is more than 1 mile, a long way to walk, especially with any carry-on baggage. But the Air Carrier Access Act assures passengers airlines operating in the United States must provide a wheelchair or motorized cart and an escort for any passenger who requests it. This also includes foreign airlines taking off or landing at a U.S. airport. European Union regulations apply the same rule in E.U. countries, and the United Kingdom has a similar one.
Who is Eligible?
Travelers don’t need to show any proof of disability, so in addition to those with obvious disabilities, any traveler who feels unable to walk long distances can take advantage of this service.
How Do You Arrange for Assistance?
Tell the airline when making the reservation or call them at least 72 hours before flight time. Some airlines’ websites have a prompt for this when you reserve.
What Does it Cost?
The service is free, although it is customary to tip the attendant $3–5, more if the transfer is a long one involving help getting through security and immigration as well.
What’s Entailed?
Depending on how much assistance a traveler needs, they can be met with a wheelchair at the airport entrance and accompanied all the way to their seat on the plane. Those otherwise mobile can request help from check-in to the flight gate, and from the arrival gate to their connecting flight or baggage claim. Those who have difficulty walking long distances but can use stairs may be assisted to the gate with a cart instead of a wheelchair.
Are You Separated from Assisted Travelers?
Depending on the size of your party, you will probably all stay together through immigration checkpoints, but the number of accompanying passengers may be limited.
Where Do You Meet the Attendant?
The Assistance Point is usually near the airport entrance, or you can simply tell the airline representative at the check-in area a member of your group has requested assistance. If the Assistance Point is not staffed, there will be a buzzer or telephone. Some airports have waiting rooms for people with disabilities or requiring assistance.
Who Can Board Early?
Even if they have not requested assistance, passengers who move slowly or need extra time can board before other passengers if they identify themselves to the staff at the boarding gate.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 15, 2024What’s New at Children’s Museum Indianapolis
Indianapolis is home to the world’s largest children’s museums, making it one of the best destinations for family travelers looking to provide the perfect mix of fun and education for little ones. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is home to a wide array of exhibits designed to teach, entertain and challenge young minds through play. While there are always fantastic permanent exhibits to experience at the museum, be sure to check out these great experiences that will make your 2024 visit one to remember.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations / North America
Mar 15, 2024Family Adventures Await with Hyatt Regency
Downtown Salt Lake City’s newest hotel, Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City, opened in October 2022, set within 30 miles of world-class nature trails and four ski resorts — Alta, Brighton, Snowbird and Solitude. Family travelers will be especially interested in two available offers at the property.
Destinations / Europe
Mar 14, 2024Explore Pisa, Italy, Beyond the Leaning Tower
If your family is planning to travel in central Italy, you’ll probably have Pisa on your itinerary. One of the world’s most famous travel icons is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, La Torre Pendente.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / North America
Mar 14, 2024Take a Spring Break Getaway to Crystal Springs Resort, New Jersey
Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County, New Jersey, is the perfect quick getaway for family travelers in the northeastern United States. Situated among the Kittatinny Mountains, the resort is a one-hour drive from New York’s George Washington Bridge.
ShareThis