Airtran and Gate Checking a Special Needs Stroller

[Disneylvr]

We are flying on Airtran for the first time in March and we have a special needs stroller that we use for our daughter. On American we have always been able to gate check it. I looked on Airtran's web site and can't find any information about gate checking strollers. Is this allowed?

 

[kaytieeldr]

Can't see any reason it wouldn't. As usual, remove all removable (read: potentially easily damaged) parts. If you have or can get or make some type of storage bag, even better.

 

[Disneylvr]

It folds up like an umbrella stroller, it is just somewhat bigger and heavier. It's the Maclaren Major.

 

[cbrfan]

You'll have no problem gate-checking. As a pp stated, remove any parts that are easily lost or damaged.

 

[SueM in MN]

We fly Aittran most of the time and gate check DD's wheelchair.
Follow the link in my signature to the disABILITIES FAQs thread and scroll down for the transportation post.
Airtran gate checks strollers, but yours would be treated as a wheelchair - it can go on the plane in a closet as a wheelchair, if the plane has a closet. There are also higher damage limits and requirements for the airline to provide a mobility device for use if they lose or damage yours.

 

[Disneylvr]

We fly Aittran most of the time and gate check DD's wheelchair.
Follow the link in my signature to the disABILITIES FAQs thread and scroll down for the transportation post.
Airtran gate checks strollers, but yours would be treated as a wheelchair - it can go on the plane in a closet as a wheelchair, if the plane has a closet. There are also higher damage limits and requirements for the airline to provide a mobility device for use if they lose or damage yours.

Should I tell them in advance that we will have the stroller? I read their FAQ online and it states that there is usually only room to store one wheelchair per flight.

 

[SueM in MN]

Should I tell them in advance that we will have the stroller? I read their FAQ online and it states that there is usually only room to store one wheelchair per flight.

Yes.
Mention it ahead of time, at the time you check in and when you get to the gate.
And, make sure they know when you check in that it is a wheelchair for your child. Some flights don't actually have a closet, but if they do, this is the size it must fit:
"a space of 13 inches by 36 inches by 42 inches without having to remove the wheels or otherwise disassemble it."
If you can fit in that space by taking parts off, you are allowed to - and then stow the rest of the pieces in the carry on baggage area.

My DD's wheelchair is bigger than that folded, so we have not tried out the on board storage lately.