We need a wheelchair at the airport (DTW)

[wld]

My grandma is flying to florida with us from detroit. She is currently having a problem with her back and we will need a wheelchair d/t the distance between security and the gates. I did put it on her ticket but does anyone know where we pick it up or how we get it. We usually get our boarding passes on line and then check our luggage outside with the bell hop. And what about when we get off at Orlando? Anyone done this before. Thanks

 

[krdisneybound]

You should let your airline know that you have your own wheelchair. They can tag it at the gate (like a baby stroller) and take it from her at the plane door and then bring it back to her at the gate on her arrival city. I do the same thing with my motorscooter. Should be no problem at all. Sure others will have some ideas for you also

 

[SueM in MN]

My grandma is flying to florida with us from detroit. She is currently having a problem with her back and we will need a wheelchair d/t the distance between security and the gates. I did put it on her ticket but does anyone know where we pick it up or how we get it. We usually get our boarding passes on line and then check our luggage outside with the bell hop. And what about when we get off at Orlando? Anyone done this before. Thanks

You could rent a wheelchair from a medical equipment company at your home and take it with you. In that case, you would be able to have it with you the whole time. You could still do on-line check in and luggage check outside. Ask about gate checking the wheelchair when you check in your bagggage (they will probably tell you to check it at the gate).
When you get to the gate, ask about gate checking the wheelchair (ask when you first get there, well before boarding begins) and they will give you the correct tag.

If you don't want to bring a wheelchair, here are a couple of suggestions:

1) Look at the website for your airline. There should be a page of disability information (there may not be a link, you may need to do a search for it - look for wheelchair). That might have a bit more helpful information, or the website should have a "Contact Us" link.

2) The luggage handler (Skycap??) at the curb side check in will be able to help you and tell you where to get a wheelchair/help you get one. Here's what the
Detroit Airport site says:
How do I arrange for wheelchair assistance once I arrive at the airport?
Skycap assistance is available at the curb front, ticket counter and throughout the terminal complex. Contact your airline for special arrangements.

3) Check at the gate and let them know you will need a wheelchair to meet you at the gate at your next stop (Even though you have already put it on her ticket, reminding them is a good idea). Before you arrive at your next stop, remind the flight attendant about the wheelchair.

 

[wld]

Thank You so much. She is actually not going to disney with us, my aunt is meeting us at the airport and she is going home with them. She walks around her house and even does a little shopping. But it takes her a minute to get going after she has been sitting and she walks very slowly. I am also concerned about the distance she may have to walk so I appreciate the insight. I thought it wouldn't be a problem in Orlando, but I was worried about detroit. Hopefully the skycap can help us, but I'll check my airline NWA as well.

 

[Poohs Pal]

The last time I took my Mom the skycap(DTW) at the outdoor check-in(NWA) asked if DM wanted a wheelchair. It was cold and she was waiting in side for us to reach the counter, the skycap noticed and was very helpful. Susan