Originally Posted by
WineCountryUA
IME (broken foot/heel) and wife's knee replacement, the biggest issue is time to get the wheelchair access. It can be quick and it can be longer than desired. So allow plenty of time, especially for connections. When the airlines provide a wheelchair there will be an assistance individual to accompany you who will know how to avoid obstacles and help you thru security
Have never traveled with a personal wheelchair, but there is some risk of damage.
If you need a wheelchair on the plane, it takes a special wheelchair which the airline will provide.
At some airports traveling by electric cart is faster -- you arrange that the same way as requesting a wheelchair
Would suggest contracting the
United Accessibility Desk to discuss options, they are very helpful IME
There is information on the web page concerning customer supplied wheelchairs
You can call the Accessibility Desk at 1-800-228-2744
Thanks so much for this link and the advice.
My wife and I have decided to personally escort her 95 year old aunt to her sister's 100th birthday by flying with her across the country. Her daughter said we needed wheelchair service but IME, that can be slow with long waits at the gate/jetbridge, and we have a tight 45 min connection at ORD. So I think ordering cart service is the better plan since she can walk on and off the plane just fine, albeit slowly.