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Old Sep 28, 2010, 11:01 pm
  #2  
Katja
 
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: DEN
Posts: 1,962
Welcome to FlyerTalk and the Disability Travel forum.

The answer to your first question is yes, there are alternatives to the scanner. If you are either being pushed or escorted, then that's a sign right away to TSA that you may need an alternative form of screening.

Rather than reciting a list of medical issues, if you are directed to a scanner, I suggest you say what you said here: "I can't raise my arms above my head."

It won't hurt to familiarize yourself with the official TSA policy. Here's a link to the disability section of TSA's website: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtrav...eds/index.shtm

I appreciate your apprehension about your carry on items. Ultimately, you are trusting someone you do not know (either the escort/wheelchair pusher or the TSO) with your belongings. I'm frequently asked by the TSO if anyone is with me; when I say I'm traveling alone, the TSO frequently (but not always) goes to collect my bags. It's not something I count on, though. I don't hesitate to say (as politely as possible) that I can no longer see my belongings, or that I'm not going to move until my belongings can go with me.

When you get to the checkpoint, take a deep breath, and don't allow yourself to be rushed until you are comfortable with what's going on.

I hope you enjoy your trip!
Katja is offline