What You Must Know Before Boarding a Plane with a Cane

Most concerned persons have asked if they can travel by air with their canes. Obviously, there are no restrictions with road trips, but air travel has some regulations. Canes are allowed on planes because they are considered mobility devices. However, many airlines could deny you access for many reasons. Passengers are sometimes given the option to insert it in their luggage if they can't go in with it.

There are no regulations as to the type of canes allowed, but you would be required to keep it safely so that it doesn't harm the people on board. Note that you would not be able to bring a cane to the cabin of a plane for the following reasons:

• If the cane blocks the aisle - No one wants to be uncomfortable because your cane is on the walkway. Remember that there would be movements to and fro on board, and any obstacle on the way would not be tolerated.

• If the cabin space is limited, it could be a reason for the authorities to ask that you keep your cane aside.

• If the cane poses risks to other passengers and crew members, you won't be allowed to get in with it.

• Your cane ought to fit into the overhead bin or under the seat. If neither of these locations accommodates it comfortably, it is a red flag.

• These conditions are the likely reason your cane may be kept in the cargo compartment of the plane.

Airline procedures for passengers traveling with canes vary from one company to another, but there are standard requirements. Before you embark on that journey, you should make pre-travel arrangements, so you're not stranded at the airport.

These tips are helpful for air travel with a cane:

Apply for pre-boarding

Older adults or people who can't stand on their own need to take this tip seriously. Pre-boarding ensures that passengers with canes enter the plane before others, so they're not rushed or stressed. This also guarantees priority access to the storage space above and beneath them, depending on where their canes fit in.

Arrive at the airport earlier than usual

This may sound cliché, but it is one way to get settled early. It is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before the schedule in case delays occur at the security checkpoint. For those who need special assistance, they require more time to sort themselves out before takeoff.

Choose an appropriate seat

Consider an aisle seat because it is easily accessible. You move to the restroom faster when you sit on accessible areas of the plane. Sitting near the aisle also provides access to the cane (if stored beneath or overhead), so you don't have to stress yourself. It even makes more sense because you don't discomfort other passengers on board with you. Have a look here https://seniorsupported.com/where-to-buy-walking-canes to know more.

Gather medical documents

Many airlines would not allow you to board with a cane if they don’t see a medical report permitting it. They want to protect their passengers by all means and one way to do that is ensuring that no weapon is brought into the flight under any guise. If your doctor prescribed the cane due to a medical condition, don’t hesitate to present a medical report as it is the only evidence they have to permit you. You can also obtain a TSA notification card to inform the personnel of your medical conditions and disabilities.

There you have it! Air travel with your cane is possible, provided you meet some of the guidelines listed above. You should expect more cane tips from Senior Supported as we're committed to sharing helpful content.