Travel can be challenging for anyone, and for those using mobility aids, flying may feel especially stressful. That’s why MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is here to guide you through each step of the process and help you prepare ahead of time with a clear overview of what to expect when traveling with crutches or other mobility aids.
Preparation for Your Flight with Crutches
A little advance planning can go a long way in protecting your crutches and making your travel experience more comfortable. Travelers may choose to use protective covers or store crutches in sports equipment bags, especially for larger or delicate items. A folding walking stick or battery-operated device, such as an electric scooter, may also support destination accessibility if crutches are not ideal for extended use.
Before your trip, notify your airline of any mobility needs and visit the special assistance desk to confirm policies, complete a mobility device handling form if required and request support. Travelers may also want to consult a healthcare provider when planning mobility needs at their destination and confirm hotel accessibility in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay.
Accessibility Resources and Support Services
Founded in 1986, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) protects passengers with disabilities by requiring accommodations and prohibiting discrimination by airlines. This federal law applies to all U.S. airlines, as well as flights to or from the U.S. on foreign carriers. In addition to the protections provided by the ACAA, individual airports such as BLV offer additional accessibility resources and services to support travelers from arrival through boarding and help ensure a smooth experience.
Passengers may park in ADA-accessible parking spaces located in the terminal lot or reserve a ride through the Alternative Transportation System (ATS) when arriving by public transit. Through a partnership with the St. Clair County Transit District, ATS offers call-a-ride, curb-to-curb service for individuals who are certified as ADA eligible, as well as for those age 60 and older in certain service areas. Travelers may also consider accessibility equipment rental companies or arranging accessible vehicle airport transportation or security services before or after their journey.
When checking in, passengers using mobility aids — including crutches, walkers or wheelchairs — may request varying levels of assistance. This can include help with baggage, access to accessible routes, use of an aisle chair, locating a wheelchair‑accessible restroom or navigating the airport with mobility devices. BLV and Allegiant staff are happy to assist, but travelers are encouraged to share any accessibility needs, medical documentation or assistance requests during the booking process and before arriving at the airport.
Before traveling, passengers may also consider using TSA Cares, a program designed to support travelers with disabilities or medical conditions through the screening process. Printing a TSA disability notification card is another helpful option. This small, discreet card signals to TSA officers that you have a medical device, health condition or disability, allowing the screening process to move forward with added awareness, privacy and confidence.
If challenges arise at any point during the airport experience, passengers may report concerns to a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO). CROs are available to help address accessibility issues and ensure travelers receive the assistance and accommodations they are entitled to under the ACAA.
Navigating Security and Boarding Procedures
When you arrive at security, open communication with TSA officers is key to a smooth experience. TSA procedures may vary for travelers who cannot stand or walk independently, and passengers may request to remain seated during the security screening process or use a separate security track when available. Mobility aids such as canes, walkers or crutches must also go through screening, either through an X ray machine or via manual inspection, depending on the size and type of device.
Throughout both security and boarding, special assistance is available. Once at the gate, a gate agent can help answer questions about boarding arrangements, including whether mobility aids need to be gate checked, stored in an overhead locker or returned planeside after landing.
Airline and Airport Policies for Flying with Crutches
Navigating an airport on crutches may seem daunting, but with amenities like an accessible restroom and early boarding, BLV helps ease many common concerns. Crutches are considered medical supplies and may be brought onboard as either a carry on or checked item, depending on airline guidelines. Passengers may also request wheelchair service in advance, including use of an aisle wheelchair or onboard wheelchair to assist with boarding and moving through the aircraft cabin.
If you have questions about boarding procedures, size restrictions or cargo door dimensions related to mobility devices or medical supplies, airline staff are available to help. Should any issues arise, travelers may also ask to speak with a CRO for additional support and guidance.
Onboard Comfort and Accessibility Tips
Passengers who need extra time to get settled have the option to pre board before most travelers line up to board the aircraft. Once onboard, take a moment to identify what will help you manage mobility and stay comfortable during the flight, such as having extra legroom, keeping hydration within reach or using ergonomic accessories for added support.
Scooters and wheelchairs are typically gate checked on Allegiant flights departing from BLV, while other airlines may offer a wheelchair storage closet, overhead locker or another designated space for mobility aids. Flight attendants are valuable resources during the flight and can assist with seating needs, access to onboard wheelchairs or questions about storing mobility devices safely and securely.
Arrival and Post-Flight Procedures
Knowing what to expect upon arrival can help ease concerns about flying with mobility aids. After landing, wheelchair users may receive assistance with an aisle chair transfer back to their wheelchair or a temporary alternative device to ensure a smooth transition off the aircraft. Under the ACAA, mobility devices are not counted toward baggage limits and may be stored onboard or in the aircraft’s cargo area at no additional cost.
Passengers traveling with crutches can typically expect aircraft door return, jet bridge retrieval or use of a gate delivery tag so their device is returned as close to landing as possible. If a mobility aid is routed to baggage claim, travelers may retrieve it from an oversize conveyor belt and should complete a mobility device inspection right away. Airline staff can also assist with arranging ground transportation and ensuring continued accessibility after arrival.
Handling Damage, Loss or Travel Emergencies
If you need to file a damage claim, airline staff at the baggage service office or customer service desk can help submit a formal damage report, and passengers at BLV can also visit the ticket counter to begin the claims process. If an airline damages a wheelchair or other mobility device, federal law states the airline is responsible for the damage while the device is in its care. Be sure to complete any required baggage claim checks as soon as possible after arrival.
Preparing ahead of time is an important part of emergency readiness when flying with crutches, wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Taking pre travel photos helps document the condition of your equipment before boarding. Completing a mobility device handling form also allows airline staff to properly plan how your device will be transported and stored. Travelers may also consider removing removable parts, such as wheels or cushions, to help reduce the risk of damage during the flight.
If a mobility device is mishandled, damaged or lost, airlines have specialized policies in place to resolve the situation. Travelers may be offered backup equipment, a temporary replacement or a loaner device while repairs are completed. When damage occurs under the airline’s responsibility, repair estimates, labor and any necessary repair tools are typically covered by the airline until the device is returned to working condition.
Traveling with Other Mobility Aids and Assistive Devices
Smooth travel is more than possible when flying with mobility aids and assistive devices. A little prior research and planning can help travelers feel informed, confident and prepared before taking to the skies. Understanding assistive device measurements, collapsible mobility aids and airline policies ahead of time can make the journey easier from start to finish.
For travelers using electronic aids, it’s important to be aware of battery restrictions and power wheelchair battery type requirements. Airlines may also request medical equipment documentation in certain cases. A full list of accessibility resources, guidelines and potential barriers is available on the U.S. Department of Transportation website.
The best way to begin your journey is to notify both the airport and airline of your needs immediately after booking. Whether you’re requesting in airport wheelchair services, arranging a wheelchair rental or asking about transporting other medical equipment, Allegiant and MidAmerica St. Louis Airport are here to help guide you. Travelers may also wish to consider travel insurance for mobility devices for added peace of mind.
Explore more accessibility focused travel tips and resources on our website.