How do I get a wheelchair assistance for Delta flights?

# How to get a wheelchair assistance on Delta flights? To add Delta airlines wheelchair assistance, call 1-833-341-3894 or request it during booking or via Manage Booking at least 48 hours before departure. Traveling with a wheelchair on Delta Air Lines involves careful planning and coordination to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. Delta is committed to providing comprehensive wheelchair assistance and accommodating passengers who rely on mobility devices. Whether you bring your own manual or battery-powered wheelchair, or need wheelchair assistance at the airport, Delta offers a range of services designed to meet your needs. This detailed guide explains how to get a wheelchair on your Delta flight, covering everything from requesting assistance, preparing your wheelchair for travel, airport procedures, onboard accommodations, and tips for a hassle-free experience. --- ## Understanding Delta’s Wheelchair Services Delta Airlines provides wheelchair services that cater to various passenger needs, including: - **Airport Wheelchair Assistance:** Help with navigating through the airport from curbside or ticket counter to the gate. - **Personal Wheelchair Transport:** Carrying your own manual or electric wheelchair on the same flight. - **Onboard Wheelchairs:** Special aisle wheelchairs to assist passengers in moving to and from their seats or lavatories. - **Special Assistance Requests:** Custom support for passengers with unique mobility challenges. Delta’s wheelchair services are designed to ensure safe, respectful, and efficient handling of your mobility device and to assist you throughout your airport and flight experience. --- ## Step 1: Requesting Wheelchair Assistance or Personal Wheelchair Transport ### When to Request Delta recommends that passengers request wheelchair assistance or notify the airline about their personal wheelchair at least **48 hours before the flight**. This advance notice allows Delta to prepare and provide the best possible service. ### How to Request You can request wheelchair services or inform Delta about your personal wheelchair in several ways: - **Online via Fly Delta app or Delta website:** Use the “Accessible Services” section in “My Trips” to submit your request. - **By phone:** Call Delta’s dedicated accessible travel service line at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services). - **Through your travel agent:** If you booked your flight via an agent, inform them so they can communicate your needs to Delta. When making your request, provide detailed information about your mobility device, including: - Type of wheelchair (manual or battery-powered) - Dimensions (height, width, and depth) at its smallest size - Battery type if applicable (lithium-ion, wet cell, etc.) This information helps Delta ensure your wheelchair can be safely transported and accommodated on the aircraft. --- ## Step 2: Preparing Your Wheelchair for Travel ### Measuring Your Wheelchair Measure your wheelchair’s dimensions in its smallest folded or collapsed state. This helps Delta determine if it fits in the cargo hold or if special arrangements are needed. If your wheelchair exceeds Delta’s maximum size limits, the airline may need to book you on a different aircraft that can accommodate your device. ### Mobility Device Handling Form Delta provides a **Mobility Device Handling Form** that you should complete and bring with you on the day of travel. This form: - Details how to handle your wheelchair or scooter safely. - Includes disassembly and reassembly instructions. - Notes the battery type if your device is powered. Attach this form to your wheelchair or scooter, preferably on the back or seat, in a plastic sleeve or laminated to protect it. A gate agent can assist you with attaching the form at the airport. ### Battery-Powered Devices If your wheelchair or scooter has a battery, especially lithium-ion or spillable batteries, Delta requires **at least 48 hours advance notice**. Battery-powered devices may need to be disassembled or have batteries removed for safe stowage in the cargo hold, following U.S. Federal Dangerous Goods Handling Procedures. Check with your device manufacturer about whether your wheelchair can be stored upright or on its side, and inform Delta accordingly. --- ## Step 3: At the Airport – Using Wheelchair Services ### Arrival and Check-In - Arrive at the airport with ample time before departure, ideally **at least one hour early** if you are checking in a battery-powered wheelchair. - If you requested wheelchair assistance, a Delta representative will meet you at curbside, ticket counter, or a designated wheelchair staging area. - If you bring your own wheelchair, you can check it at the ticket counter or gate. Present your Mobility Device Handling Form to the Delta agent. - You may check in online or via the Fly Delta app, but allow extra time for wheelchair handling and assistance. ### Wheelchair Assistance Through the Airport Delta provides manual wheelchairs for passengers who need help moving through the airport but do not bring their own device. This includes assistance through security, to the gate, and to connecting flights. Delta also offers **electric cart service** at select airports, which provides rides on small electric carts between gates but generally does not cover travel between terminals or concourses. ### Boarding Assistance and Aisle Wheelchairs At the gate, Delta offers **aisle wheelchairs** designed to fit the narrow aircraft aisle, helping passengers move from the gate to their seat and back upon arrival. These wheelchairs are operated by Delta staff and require assistance from the passenger. If you need an aisle wheelchair, request this service when booking or at least 48 hours before departure. The aisle wheelchair will be ready for you at the gate. --- ## Step 4: Onboard Accommodations for Wheelchair Users ### Seating Delta offers seats with movable armrests for easier transfers from wheelchairs. If you have specific seating needs, inform Delta when booking or requesting wheelchair assistance. ### Onboard Wheelchairs Many Delta aircraft are equipped with onboard aisle wheelchairs to help passengers move to the lavatory or around the cabin. Flight attendants are trained to assist you in using these wheelchairs. ### Carrying Your Personal Wheelchair Onboard - **Manual collapsible wheelchairs** may be allowed in the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin or closet space, but this is subject to availability and aircraft type. - Battery-powered wheelchairs generally must be checked in the cargo hold due to safety regulations. - Delta is working with regulators to enable wheelchair users to fly seated in their own wheelchairs in the future, but this is expected to become available only toward the end of 2025 or later. --- ## Step 5: Arrival and Collecting Your Wheelchair Upon arrival, Delta staff will assist you in disembarking and retrieving your wheelchair. If your wheelchair was checked in, it will be delivered to the aircraft door or baggage claim, depending on airport facilities. If any damage occurs to your wheelchair during handling or transport, notify Delta immediately before leaving the airport to begin the resolution process. --- ## Tips for a Smooth Experience with Wheelchairs on Delta Flights - **Request assistance early:** Always notify Delta at least 48 hours before your flight about your wheelchair or assistance needs. - **Bring the Mobility Device Handling Form:** Complete, print, and attach it to your wheelchair to help Delta staff handle your device properly. - **Label your wheelchair:** Attach your name and contact information securely to your wheelchair. - **Arrive early:** Give yourself extra time at the airport for check-in and assistance. - **Communicate clearly:** Inform Delta staff about your needs and any special instructions for your wheelchair. - **Keep documentation:** In case of damage or issues, keep all receipts and reports for claims. - **Check battery regulations:** Understand the rules for traveling with batteries and prepare your device accordingly. - **Use Delta’s online tools:** Manage your booking and assistance requests via the Fly Delta app or website for convenience. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchairs on Delta Flights ### Can I bring my own wheelchair on the plane? Yes, you can bring your own manual or battery-powered wheelchair. Manual collapsible wheelchairs may be allowed onboard if space permits, while powered wheelchairs usually travel in the cargo hold. ### How do I request wheelchair assistance at the airport? You can request assistance when booking your flight online, through the Fly Delta app, by phone, or at the airport. It is best to request at least 48 hours in advance. ### What happens if my wheelchair is damaged during the flight? Notify Delta staff immediately before leaving the airport. They will initiate a damage claim and assist you with repairs or compensation. ### Are there wheelchairs available at the airport if I don’t bring my own? Yes, Delta provides wheelchairs at many airports for passenger use. You can request this service when booking or at the airport. ### Can I use an electric cart to get around the airport? Electric cart service is available at select airports but generally only for short distances between gates, not between terminals. --- ## Looking Ahead: Future Developments for Wheelchair Users on Delta Delta and U.S. regulators (DOT and FAA) are actively working on innovations to allow passengers to fly seated in their own wheelchairs. This would be a major advancement in accessibility, expected to roll out by the end of 2025 or later. This development will enable wheelchair users to remain in their personal mobility devices throughout the flight, improving comfort and independence. --- ## Conclusion Getting a wheelchair on your Delta flight involves a combination of advance planning, clear communication, and understanding Delta’s wheelchair policies. By requesting assistance at least 48 hours before travel, preparing your wheelchair with the Mobility Device Handling Form, and coordinating with Delta staff at the airport, you can ensure your mobility needs are met throughout your journey. Delta’s comprehensive wheelchair services—from airport assistance to onboard support—are designed to provide you with a safe, dignified, and comfortable travel experience. With ongoing improvements and future innovations, traveling with a wheelchair on Delta is becoming easier and more accessible than ever. --- This guide provides a thorough roadmap to navigating wheelchair services on Delta flights, empowering you to travel confidently and comfortably. 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