At MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV), we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and accessible travel experience for every passenger, every day.
We understand that traveling can present unique challenges — especially for individuals with disabilities. Whether you use a wheelchair or scooter, travel with a service animal or rely on medical devices, you deserve a smooth, respectful and dignified travel experience. That’s why MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) takes pride in offering accessible travel services designed to support the diverse needs of all travelers.
From check-in to baggage claim, BLV adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and U.S. Department of Transportation regulations to help disabled travelers feel confident, supported and well-cared for throughout their time at our airport.
Airport Accessibility from Arrival to Boarding
Accessible Parking and Transportation Services
At BLV, we’re dedicated to making your journey accessible from the moment you arrive. ADA-accessible parking spaces are available in the terminal lot, conveniently located near the entrance for easy access. For travelers using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, this ensures a smooth start to your airport experience. If you’re arriving by public transit, the St. Clair County Transit District provides transportation services from the nearby Shiloh-Scott Metrolink Station directly to the airport. Eligible travelers may also use the Alternative Transportation System for additional accessible transit options.
Learn more and make reservations here.
Check-In and Wheelchair Assistance
Passengers with disabilities can request various types of assistance at check-in, including help with carry-on bags, mobility devices like scooters and locating accessible restrooms. Allegiant Airlines, BLV’s exclusive carrier, offers wheelchair assistance for departing and arriving passengers. To ensure availability, we recommend reserving this service in advance through Allegiant’s online request form. If you travel with assistive devices such as oxygen concentrators, armrests or hearing aids, please notify the airline during booking or at check-in so they can better accommodate your needs.
Security Screening, TSA Cares and Support Services
Checkpoint Assistance
Security screening can be a stressful part of travel, but BLV is committed to making the process as smooth and supportive as possible for all passengers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accommodates travelers with medical conditions, disabilities or those who may need additional time or support — such as individuals with autism or cognitive impairments. TSA Cares is a free program offering personalized assistance during screening for travelers who need it. To use TSA Cares, contact their hotline at least 72 hours before your flight to arrange support.
If you travel with external medical devices like insulin pumps, pacemakers or oxygen concentrators, notify a TSA agent before screening. Service animals, canes, crutches, walkers and other mobility aids are also allowed and will be screened appropriately.
Request assistance through TSA Cares.
Boarding and Deplaning
At the gate, BLV ensures air travel remains smooth for all passengers. Airline staff are available to assist with boarding, deplaning and onboard seating arrangements for wheelchair users or others requiring additional support. Accessible seating with moveable armrests is available throughout the terminal, including at all gates and in concession areas, to provide greater comfort and flexibility.
Service Animals, Medical Devices and Accessibility Support
Service Animals
Service dogs are welcome at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport and play a vital role in supporting travelers with disabilities. These animals must undergo TSA screening alongside their handlers. The U.S. Department of Transportation provides detailed guidelines about traveling with service animals, which can be found on their .gov site.
Assistive and Medical Devices
BLV supports the use of assistive and medical devices, including wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, hearing aids and oxygen concentrators. If you use such devices — or are hard of hearing or have a cognitive or visual impairment — please notify your airline in advance so appropriate accommodations can be arranged.
All airport restrooms, including family restrooms, are fully accessible. Additionally, quiet areas are available for travelers with autism or sensory sensitivities who may need a calm, low-stimulation environment during their journey.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program:
Extra Support When You Need It
Some travelers have hidden disabilities — such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety or learning differences — that may not be immediately visible but still require extra time and understanding. To better support these travelers, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport proudly participates in the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program.
What is the Sunflower Program?
The program offers a simple, discreet way for travelers with disabilities to indicate they might need additional assistance or a gentle approach. By wearing a Sunflower lanyard, pin, tag or wristband, passengers can silently communicate their needs to airport staff. These items are available free of charge at the check-in counter — no medical documentation or explanation required.
Why It Matters
BLV staff receive specialized training through the Sunflower Program’s “Sunflower Conversations,” which include real-life stories from individuals with hidden disabilities. This training helps ensure our team responds with empathy, patience and thoughtful support throughout your travel experience.
As a small token of appreciation, travelers wearing a Sunflower identifier are also eligible to receive a free non-alcoholic beverage at the concession stand, courtesy of Tailwind Hospitality.
Your Rights and BLV’s Commitment to Accessibility
BLV is fully committed to ensuring equal access and support for all travelers with disabilities. Under federal laws including the ADA, the ACAA and the Disabilities Bill of Rights, it is illegal for the airport, its providers, tenants, concessionaires and contractors to discriminate against any person because of race, color, national origin, sex, creed or disability in public services and employment opportunities.
Reporting Discrimination
If you believe you’ve experienced discrimination, please report it promptly to the Airport Director or contact:
Federal Aviation Administration
Office of Civil Rights, ACR-3
800 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20591
Accessibility Resources
Federal regulations on unlawful discrimination are available for review online and in Airport Administration. Website content is also available in alternate formats for individuals with vision impairments or reading difficulties. For help accessing online materials, please contact: [email protected].
More Than Accessibility — It’s About Respect
At BLV, accessible travel is more than just physical features like ramps or restrooms — it’s about thoughtful planning, respect and inclusion. Whether you’re a disabled traveler with a service animal, using a wheelchair or medical device, or living with a hidden disability such as autism or anxiety, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
With trained staff, helpful services and programs like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, BLV is proud to make air travel safer, more comfortable and more inclusive for everyone.