Flying with a manual wheelchair can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be a stressful experience. From figuring out how to store your mobility aid during the flight, to understanding your legal rights when traveling, it's important to be well-informed before you head to the airport. Here at Mark Drug Medical Supply, we have compiled this guide to help you navigate air travel with a manual wheelchair so that you can travel with confidence.

If you have any more questions about traveling with a wheelchair, feel free to consult the staff at Mark Drug Medical Supply. You can find us in Wheeling, IL.

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) prohibits airlines from discriminating against travelers with disabilities. This law applies to all flights to, from, and within the United States. Every individual with a recognized disability is protected under this act — including wheelchair users.

The ACAA requires airlines to provide accessible aircraft features and seating accommodations, as well as assistance for travelers with disabilities.

Per the ACAA, all airplanes operating within the United States must have a designated wheelchair storage closet in the cabin of the aircraft. This space is reserved for assistive devices and can fit manual wheelchairs that are able to be collapsed for storage. If there is more than one wheelchair user on the flight, access to this storage area will be granted on a first come, first serve basis.

If the wheelchair storage closet is not available, or if you have a manual wheelchair with a rigid frame that cannot be broken down, your device will need to be stored in the cargo hold of the plane. When preparing to store your wheelchair in the cargo hold, make sure to remove any detachable parts — such as seat cushions, footrests, storage features, and other attachments — and stow them in the overhead bin at your seat.

If there is no designated wheelchair storage closet on board the aircraft, your device can be strapped to a row of seats in the cabin. Rest assured that the airline is required to accommodate you and your wheelchair, even on flights that are fully booked.

It is unfortunate that not all airline personnel are properly trained in how to load and unload assistive devices such as manual wheelchairs. As a result, mobility aids have been known to get damaged in transit. While this is not a common occurrence, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility that your wheelchair may be damaged.

To protect yourself against any potential damages, take "before" photos of your wheelchair before you leave for the airport. This can help you file a claim with the airline in the event of an accident. Also, make sure to label each component of your device with your name and address — this will help if any parts become misplaced during the flight.

We hope you found this guide helpful. If you are in need of a new wheelchair for your next trip, come visit us at Mark Drug Medical Supply. We welcome customers from Chicago and from all over the North Shore area at our store in Wheeling, IL.