How Do I Request Wheelchair Access for My Southwest Airlines Flight?

Sometimes traveling can be hectic, but it's even challenging when you have a disability. Airlines are aware of such select passengers and strive to ensure they experience a pleasant and seamless journey regardless of their condition.

Southwest Airlines doesn't require disabled passengers to provide advance notice for help at the airport, but it advises them to give heads-up so that its staff can know the number of travelers who may need support.

Must-know information for passengers who need to access a wheelchair

• The airline allows customers to carry assistive devices and medication such as breast pumps, crutches, CPAP machines, walkers, and canes to the cabin.
• Passengers may pack the medication and assistive devices separately from their items, and the assistive devices and drugs won't count towards their checked bag limit.
• When checking in, you should notify a customer service agent about the assistive device, especially if it's in the luggage.
• When you arrive at the airport, you must inform the airline's official of an assistive device that you need to be checked-in.
• The airline can decide to transport the assistive device in the cargo compartment if it's at risk in the cabin. However, removable parts such as side guards, arm or leg rest, and cushion can be stowed under a seat or in an overhead bin if they meet the Federal Aviation Administration's safety requirements for onboard stowage.
• Another critical thing to note, upon arrival at your destination, you can opt to recover the checked assistive device at the baggage claim or gate. You should advise the airline staff when checking the assisted machine at which place you would prefer to retrieve it.

How to request for wheelchair access via the Southwest Airline's website

1. Visit https://www.southwest.com/

2. Click on the flight options on the top part of the page

3. Scroll to the bottom of the page, and click on the customer service icon

4. Click on the passenger and payment info page

5. Choose the special assistance option

6. Select the wheelchair and other devices options

7. Key in the required information on the wheelchair or scooter information form and hit send

8. The final step is to complete the booking process

Physically impaired clients also have an alternative option of downloading the wheelchair or scooter information form and submitting it directly to a customer care agent.

Other options to request a wheelchair access

Calling customer care: Getting in touch with the airline's customer care agent is among the most accessible means. The agent will be able to process your request in real-time and ensure you receive assistance.

Help Desk: Clients may get assistance through the online help desk support using customer FAQ, forum, toll-free numbers, and instant messaging.

Twitter: Login to your twitter account and write a direct tweet to the Southwest airline's twitter account regarding your request for wheelchair access and submit.

Facebook: Login to your Facebook account and search for the Southwest Airline's Facebook account. Click on the send message icon to key in your request for a wheelchair and send the message.