Traveling on United AL with a walker

[trbarton]

I’m flying on United on a Princess Cruise & I’m not sure if I need to bring a walker. Anyone had an experience bringing a walker on a plane?

[SCX22]

The airlines don't count DME against your carry on limit.  Depending on the size, you the airline might have you gate check your walker.  If you have a light weight walker with no seat, the flight attendant might be able to store it in the closet of the aircraft if the size is small enough when folded up.  Present yourself to the gate agent and ask if you have to gate check it.  If so, have them print out the tag to do so and have them attach it.  You will be able to use it to the end of the jet bridge and will leave it there.  Once you arrive at the next airport, it should be waiting for you to collect at the jet bridge.  Don't forget to collect it, as it probably won't be waiting for you at the baggage claim of your final destination. 

[trbarton]

13 hours ago, SCX22 said:

The airlines don't count DME against your carry on limit.  Depending on the size, you the airline might have you gate check your walker.  If you have a light weight walker with no seat, the flight attendant might be able to store it in the closet of the aircraft if the size is small enough when folded up.  Present yourself to the gate agent and ask if you have to gate check it.  If so, have them print out the tag to do so and have them attach it.  You will be able to use it to the end of the jet bridge and will leave it there.  Once you arrive at the next airport, it should be waiting for you to collect at the jet bridge.  Don't forget to collect it, as it probably won't be waiting for you at the baggage claim of your final destination. 

A friend suggested to ask for a wheelchair. How does on do that?  Call the airlines?

[SCX22]

1 minute ago, trbarton said:

A friend suggested to ask for a wheelchair. How does on do that?  Call the airlines?

 

You can make the special service request on the operating airline's website by pulling up your reservation and make it there.  The wheelchair option is usually buried under a special requests tab.  Don't recommend calling because waiting on hold is no fun.  You also have to make it known to a United agent when you check-in.  Just because it's on your reservation, doesn't mean that the wheelchair will automatically show up.  

 

Also realize with a wheelchair, you will be one of the last off the plane because you have to wait for the assist with a wheelchair to come fetch you.  Makes a difference when there is a delay involved.

[PacnGoNow]

9 minutes ago, trbarton said:

A friend suggested to ask for a wheelchair. How does on do that?  Call the airlines?

Yes. You can request it on the airline website or just call them and order one.

When you arrive at the airport, let 

the skycap know you ordered a wheelchair, or the airline rep just inside the check in counter.

 

If you order a wheelchair, they will meet you on arrival and get you to baggage claim. 
 

 

Edited October 5, 2023 by PacnGoNow

[GeezerCouple]

You might also want to ask this on the "Disabled Travel" section of CC:

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forum/114-disabled-cruise-travel/

 

That will get eyes beyond those familiar with United, but there may be a variety of general suggestions.

 

As for "wheelchair assistance", yes, get that on your reservation when you make it, and ALSO mention it when you check in.

If you need assistance before that point, there may be a place to sit immediately inside the terminal, or if there is curbside luggage dropoff, ask them and they should be able to have a wheelchair and pusher come to help you inside, and then all the way to the gate.

After the flight. if you ask, they should be able to stay with you through baggage pickup and then take you to a car or taxi pickup.

Do tip them, especially if they are really helpful.

 

GC

[6rugrats]

When you make your reservation, you fill out an SSR (Special Services Request) for a wheelchair, but you will need to request it again when you arrive in the lobby.  If you use a wheelchair to get to the gate, you may check your walker at the counter and you will have to drop it off in the oversized baggage area; it can't go on the conveyor belt.  Make sure they put a plastic bag around it to protect it, because those things unfortunately get thrown around.  You will have to check it at the gate if you bring it there.  If it's a regular walker, it will not fit inside many aircraft and storage space inside is at a premium.  Make sure you get the bag tag receipt.

 

If for some reason, you are able to have it brought up to the jetbridge upon arrival at your final destination, please don't forget to pick it up there, or you may be waiting for a very long time for it to make its way down to the baggage claim belts.  As in hours.

 

When you arrive at your final destination, your walker will come out at UA's oversized baggage area.  ALWAYS tip the person who escorts you with a wheelchair.

Edited October 6, 2023 by 6rugrats