Most modern infrastructure today, including malls, shops, restaurants, and offices, are designed to be disability-friendly. Many of these places have ramps for wheelchairs, anti-skid flooring, special elevators, and other forms of assistance. However, when it comes to airports, such adjustments may not always be plentiful.
Airports across the world have different rules and restrictions for people with mobility issues, thanks to the numerous security protocols. And many of these rules can be very confusing, especially if you are travelling by air for the first time using mobility aids. However, with these tips, air travel with mobility aids can become much easier for you.
Always call your airline before your journey
Despite what you may think, most airlines are well-equipped to help people with mobility aids have a comfortable journey. However, given the sheer volume of passengers travelling everyday, it may not always be possible to get the best support. To avoid any hassles on the day of travel, call them ahead of time, and apprise yourself of all the regulations. If you need specific mobility support, don’t hesitate to ask them. Learn what mobility aids may require extra screening, whether you are allowed a companion till the boarding point, how you will support yourself when your mobility aid is undergoing screening, how you will retrieve your mobility aid at arrival if it has been checked in, and the kind of equipment you are allowed to carry inside the cabin.
Never hesitate to ask for help
The airport staff has plenty of experience managing people travelling with mobility aids, so if you haven’t been able to figure out the rules and regulations, don’t hesitate to ask them for help. If you anticipate that you may need more help than you estimated, inform the airline staff immediately. Don’t be afraid of checkpoints and security processes, and relay your worries to the staff so that they can assist you better. During travel, ask flight attendants for help whenever it becomes necessary. They could offer you assistance with lavatory doors, wheelchairs, canes, etc.
Carry all your medical documents
Whenever you plan to travel by air with your mobility aids, ensure that you are carrying all relevant documents. This will be handy if you run into troubles, or if the security at the airport has specific questions about your equipment. No airline can deny you boarding because of your mobility aid, but sometimes they need extra assurance for security purposes. Hence, having documents can eliminate all hassle.
Preparing ahead of time can go a long way in ensuring that you can truly enjoy your flight journey. At Antara, we are always prepared to assist and equip you with the best of mobility aids. With over 600 products to choose from across various categories, Antara’s MedCare Product Portfolio provides certified, high quality, medical grade products. From wheelchairs and walking aids to rehabilitation, back and knee support, or bathroom accessories, Antara Senior Care offers easy rental and sales options.
Antara MedCare Products Van further simplifies accessibility and buying of reliable medical equipment with doorstep delivery and a ‘try before you buy’ option. The wide range of clinically-approved and physician-preferred products aid recovery and wellbeing of seniors, ensuring they live a comfortable and safe life.
To learn more about our MedCare offerings, call us on (+91) 98114-41111.
