How to request special assistance from American Airlines at the airport?

How do I request wheelchair assistance on American Airlines?

No doubt that disabled people need mobility assistance. You can book a wheelchair at the time of booking or after booking. For American Airlines wheelchair assistance, you must make the request at least 48 hours before departure. You will have to find the booking summary after the flight purchase to add it. You must be aware of the ticket details to find the booking summary. The assistance you may get on American Airlines will include the following.

• In-flight assistance - Aisle wheelchairs on the aircraft may let you use the lavatory.

• Reach the aircraft - Wheelchair assistance may be available from the curb-side to the aircraft at a few airports.

You must arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure if you have made a request for American Airlines disability assistance. In this Air1Network blog we will offer you further details on how the airline gives you mobility assistance. 

How do I avail wheelchair assistance on American Airlines?

Specify the American Airlines special assistance you will need at the time of booking the ticket. To add wheelchair assistance, you may retrieve the booking summary with your confirmation code. Or else, you may log in to your AAdvantage account. In the special services section, you will have to choose the specific AA assistance you need. Here are a few tips on availing wheelchair assistance. 

• When booking or managing trip on the airline’s website you will find the “add my special assistance” link - You may click on this link to choose the assistance you need.

• Fill the TSA Cares form - You will get assistance from a passenger support specialist during screening.

• For traveling with a safety assistant - You may call reservations to know whether you can book an adjacent seat.

A few aircraft’s hold has limitations on the size of wheelchairs which can be checked. You may have to book a different flight if this is so. You can call the airline or Air1Network on +1-800-433-7300 or +1-844-414-9223 for assistance or details.

What are the charges of wheelchair assistance on American Airlines?

Charges do not apply for wheelchair assistance on American Airlines. A few services are included for disabled passengers. These services are charge-free. But the passenger must have made American Airlines wheelchair request at the time of booking the ticket. If your request is not received up to 48 hours before departure, your assistance may be limited to resources at the check-in counter. Take a look at what may be included.

• Book an extra seat at the same fare - You will have to contact the airline agent to check if adjacent seats are available.

• Check your personal wheelchair - No charges apply on wheelchairs as they are not considered checked baggage.

• Request a seat belt extension - If you need it during flight, the flight attendant or gate agent may provide you one.

• Get your wheelchair delivered at the passenger gate - A gate delivery tag will be attached so that you find the wheelchair at passenger gate.

How do I qualify for special assistance on American Airlines? 

Any person with limited mobility will qualify for special assistance. A few airports may not have curb-side assistance. Find out from the airline whether it offers assistance from curb-side. If you have a personal wheelchair, it will be checked in the hold. You may bring your mobility device such as crutches, canes or a walking stick on the aircraft. They will not be considered a carry-on. But, American Airlines handicap assistance may be offered only if you’ve requested it up to 48 hours before departure. Take a look at the special assistance you can get on American Airlines.

• Book adjacent seats - If you need an adjacent seat for a safety assistant you will have to confirm availability.

• Passengers requiring a portable oxygen concentrator - Only approved POCs can be brought on-board.

• If your device needs batteries - Charge them before traveling because a power outlet may not be available.

• Traveling with a service animal - You must have the necessary documents.

You needn’t pay American Airlines wheelchair assistance cost. Also, if you have to book a more expensive flight because the wheelchair will not fit into the hold, you may ask for a refund. For details or assistance you may visit or contact American Airlines or Air1Network on +1-800-433-7300 or +1-844-414-9223.