Discover essential tips and resources for accessible travel experiences with Delta Air Lines and Air Canada.
Photo by Matthew Turner from Pexels.
Air travel can feel daunting for passengers with disabilities, with many challenges still existing when navigating airports and flights. Despite efforts to improve, accessibility remains a struggle for many travelers, as they face issues ranging from insufficient accommodations to communication barriers. However, airlines like Delta Air Lines and Air Canada are increasingly stepping up to ensure a smoother journey, offering services from wheelchair assistance to accommodating service animals and specialized dietary needs.
As part of this year’s International Day for Persons with Disabilities, we want to help you navigate the complexities of these two popular airlines’ accessibility policies and services. From wheelchair assistance to accommodating service animals and specialized dietary needs, here’s a comprehensive guide to both airlines’ accessibility services and policies.
Delta Air Lines Accessibility Overview
Key Services and Resources
1. Accessibility Service Request Form
Submit this form for:
- Special seating
- Service animals
- Medical devices
2. Use Delta’s My Trips Special Service Requests to:
- Request wheelchair assistance
- Arrange special meals
- Communicate peanut allergies
The app allows passengers to request accessible services, notify staff of specific needs (e.g., mobility assistance, low vision), and manage their journey seamlessly.
Specialized Assistance
- Wheelchair and Assistive Devices: Information on traveling with personal mobility devices or using Delta’s wheelchair services.
- Assistance for Cognitive Disabilities: Includes airport navigation help, sensory spaces, and staff training.
- Blind, Low Vision, Deaf, or Hard of Hearing Services: Accessible formats for safety instructions and other resources available.
Additional Resources
- Dietary Needs & Allergies: Custom meal requests or allergy accommodations.
- U.S. Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights: Understand your rights when flying in the U.S.
Photo by David Syphers from Unsplash.
Air Canada Accessibility Overview
Key Services and Resources
A centralized page outlining all Air Canada accessibility services.
2. Specific Accommodations
- Hearing Disabilities: Relay services, text communication, and other tools.
- Non-Visible Disabilities: Emotional or psychological support accommodations.
- Seating Options: Extra legroom, support person seating, and more.
3. Traveling with Medical Devices
Air Canada supports passengers traveling with devices like oxygen tanks and CPAP machines.
Whether you bring your own mobility aids or require on-ground wheelchair assistance, Air Canada has a comprehensive guide.
5. Medical Approval and Travel Requirements
Find information on how to request medical approval for travel and any medical conditions that may require special arrangements.
6. Special Assistance Services (Children, Pets, Meals, etc.)
Find details on the special assistance services available, including for traveling with children, pets, special meals, and bereavement fares.
Additional Resources
- Severe Allergies: Air Canada provides allergen buffer zones and meal customization.
- Service Animals: Policies for traveling with guide dogs or other service animals.
- Support Person Travel: Booking and travel discounts for personal support attendants.
- Air Canada’s Rights and Regulations for Travelers with Disabilities: Understand your rights when flying in Canada.
- Key Documents in Alternative Formats: A list of key documents in alternate formats.
Photo by Adam Khan from Unsplash.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a disability can be less stressful when you plan ahead and coordinate with your airline in advance. Both Delta and Air Canada are continuously working to prioritize accessibility through more intentional services, helpful resources, and better trained staff. By planning ahead, understanding your rights, and taking advantage of the tools provided, you can enjoy a smoother and more inclusive travel experience.
For more information, visit Delta’s Accessibility Services Page or Air Canada’s Accessible Travel Hub.
Safe travels!
Have a story or tip to share with your fellow travelers? We’d love to hear from you—connect with us in the comments below!
