How to Request Wheelchair Assistance with Spirit Airlines

How to Request Wheelchair Assistance with Spirit Airlines

To request wheelchair assistance with Spirit Airlines, call 1-888-843-5587 or add the service via “My Trips” on spirit.com at least 48 hours prior.

1. Why Request in Advance?

Spirit Airlines provides free wheelchair assistance for qualifying passengers under U.S. disability law (the Air Carrier Access Act) and they recommend contacting them as early as possible after booking ideally at least 48 hours ahead.

2. How to Add Wheelchair Assistance to Your Booking

A. Via Spirit’s Website (“My Trips”)

• Visit spirit.com, log in or access your reservation via the My Trips section.
• Scroll to the Passenger section, click “ADD” next to “Additional Info”, and select the type of wheelchair assistance you require.
• B. By Phone or Text

• You can text Spirit at request assistance. Provide your booking confirmation and specify your mobility needs.
• If traveling with a motorized or battery-powered wheelchair or scooter, call to review special handling protocols and safety procedures

Full information link- https://flyrules.com/blog/how-to-request-wheelchair-assistance-with-spirit-airlines/

3. What Happens at the Airport

Arrival & Self‑Identification

• Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, or 3 hours before international flights.
• Inform a Spirit team member or the special assistance provider at the ticket counter or designated service point that you require wheelchair assistance During Your Time in the Terminal

• You’ll receive help with check‑in, baggage drop-off, TSA security, and even a restroom escort (but not inside the restroom).
• Assistance to your gate should be available within 20 minutes of your request.

At the Gate & Boarding

• Spirit staff will check on you every 30 minutes, alert you to gate changes, and facilitate pre‑boarding before other passengers if requested.
• If needed, you can request an aisle wheelchair to transfer you to your seat. Two trained agents from the wheelchair service provider assist you down the jet bridge, then on an aisle chair into the aircraft.
• Onboard

• Flight attendants can provide an onboard wheelchair if you need to go to the lavatory during flight some aircraft also have accessible lavatories.
• Upon Arrival

• Stay seated until other passengers deplane.
• Tell the crew you will need assistance, then identify yourself to the wheelchair provider at the gate.
• Assistance continues to baggage claim or curbside drop-off or to your connecting flight.

4. Traveling with Your Own Wheelchair

• Your manual or electric wheelchair and related assistive devices (canes, crutches, scooters) do not count toward baggage allowance and may be checked free of charge.
• If the wheelchair fits in the cabin (manual, collapsible) and space is available, it may be stowed inside. Otherwise, it will be checked.
• If battery-powered, ensure the battery meets airline battery‑safety guidelines: e.g., remove battery, insulate terminals, and check watt-hour limits. This must be discussed in advance.

5. Know Your Rights

• Under 14 CFR Part 382 (Air Carrier Access Act), all U.S. airlines must provide assistance including moving through the terminal, boarding and deplaning, and locating a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) upon request.
• Airlines may not leave you unattended for over 30 minutes in a wheelchair when you’re immobile.
• If you feel your rights were violated or assistance wasn't provided appropriately, ask to speak with the CRO at the airport or contact the DOT Disability Hotline.

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Final Note

By notifying Spirit Airlines as soon as you book, communicating your mobility needs clearly, arriving early, and knowing your rights, you help ensure your wheelchair assistance is well-coordinated and delivered without undue delays or complications.