The Best Airlines For Wheelchair Users, According To Travelers

For travelers who rely on wheelchairs and other mobility devices to comfortably and autonomously navigate different scenarios, flying comes with its own unique set of challenges that go far beyond the typical stresses of air travel. From making their way around busy airport terminals to going through complex boarding procedures, and most importantly, entrusting airlines with their mobility equipment, the stakes are incredibly high. After all, a wheelchair isn't just another piece of luggage — it's an extension of someone's independence and personal freedom.

Unfortunately, recent data from the U.S. Department of Transportation paints a troubling picture: Airlines damage or mishandle thousands of wheelchairs and mobility devices each year. In 2023 alone, major carriers collectively mishandled over 11,000 wheelchairs and scooters — with reports of roughly 29 devices damaged each day. For wheelchair users, though, these aren't just numbers. Each incident represents potentially getting stranded without mobility, facing costly repairs, or dealing with physical discomfort once they've arrived at their destination.

Luckily, not all is lost when it comes to traveling with a wheelchair or mobility device. In fact, certain airlines have recognized these challenges and, in response, have implemented comprehensive policies and training programs specifically focused on safely transporting wheelchairs, as well as accommodating disabled passengers. From Delta to United, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines, these big names have invested time, effort, and money into accessibility initiatives that — albeit slowly — have helped them reduce mishandling rates and improve the overall travel experience for passengers who need it. And after scouring multiple forums, articles, and official data online, we landed on our top picks of the best airlines for wheelchair users that consistently deliver reliable service and proper equipment handling.

Delta consistently earns top honors for wheelchair handling. The nonprofit USAFacts analyzed Department of Transportation data back in 2023 to reveal that Delta had the lowest mishandling rate at just 0.7% — a statistic that's significantly better than industry averages. These numbers also translate into real-world reliability when you consider that Delta wheelchair users are nine times less likely to experience damage compared to, for example, Spirit Airlines' concerning 6.3% mishandling rate (which lands the airline at the bottom of every list).

In terms of procedures, the carrier has implemented a distinctive pink-tag system for wheelchairs and mobility devices that ensures handlers immediately recognize and prioritize these important items. When scanned, the system also connects each device to its owner, which then helps guide staff in the right direction so that they're able to deliver the wheelchair to the correct passenger upon their arrival to the gate, rather than sending them to baggage claim.

That said, what truly sets Delta apart is its forward-thinking approach to accessibility. Its staff receives specialized training in proper handling techniques for various mobility devices, and the airline has invested in dedicated equipment for safely loading and securing wheelchairs. Most impressively, though, Delta is pioneering a groundbreaking development: a prototype system that allows passengers to remain in their personal wheelchairs during flights by securely locking them to the cabin floor in designated areas. Although the system is still awaiting final certification, it could revolutionize air travel for wheelchair users by eliminating transfer requirements and, as such, minimizing any potential damages and risks.

Along with Delta, United Airlines also ranks consistently in the top three carriers for wheelchair users, with a relatively low mishandling rate of 1.1%, according to the USAFacts report. Innovation-wise, what sets United apart from others is its tech-forward approach to accessibility and accommodation.

In March of 2024, the airline launched a first-of-its-kind digital sizing tool that helps wheelchair users determine whether or not their mobility device will fit on different aircraft types before actually booking their flight. As a result, the feature eliminates the anxiety of arriving at the airport only to discover your chair won't fit through the doors. Better yet, if passengers find out their wheelchair is too large for their preferred flight, United promises to refund the fare difference if a passenger needs to book an alternative flight with a larger cargo door.

Beyond technology, United also proves to be more than ready for users who request wheelchair assistance at the airport, with staff and equipment always prepared to help. Its approach also extends to onboard experiences, with cabin crews specially trained to assist wheelchair users and travelers with mobility needs in accessing carry-on items, opening food packages, and transferring to and from seats.

With a long list of positive experiences, Southwest Airlines receives a lot of praise for its wheelchair handling. According to Department of Transportation data via the USAFacts report, the airline's mishandling rate sits around 1.5%, outperforming competitors while maintaining its signature customer-first approach. This includes clear policies and communications about cargo dimensions (48 inches wide by 35 inches tall) and weight limits (up to 500 pounds), which helps potential passengers plan accordingly if their mobility device exceeds these parameters.

What wheelchair users particularly appreciate about Southwest is its consistency across the entire travel experience. When it comes to procedures, the airline prioritizes early boarding for passengers with disabilities, giving them ample time to transfer and get settled without feeling rushed. Along with that, Southwest staff also receive regular training updates on disability accommodation, resulting in better, more informed, and conscious assistance.

Although Southwest offers limited international flights to Mexico and the Caribbean, its extensive domestic network means wheelchair travelers run into fewer variables that might lead to potentially mishandled equipment. This predictability, combined with their no-change-fee policy, offers a touch of much-needed flexibility for disabled travelers who may need to adjust plans due to personal considerations.

Rounding out the list, Alaska Airlines has recently made significant strides in improving the air travel experience for wheelchair users. With a wheelchair mishandling rate of 1.7%, the airline is always working toward improving its performance. Most notably, near the end of 2024, Alaska Airlines tested a fleet of self-driving wheelchairs at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The Whill devices use cameras and sensors to "drive" passengers to their gates without the need for an attendant, giving mobility-challenged travelers more independence. So far, the program has served over 1,500 passengers who have reported feeling a little more confident while navigating the airport.

In regards to accommodations, Alaska Airlines recommends that wheelchair and mobility device users book through their dedicated accessible services customer service line, which ensures that the airline can arrange specialized assistance at check-in, in boarding areas, and onboard the plane. The airline also suggests that wheelchair users arrive around 30-45 minutes before boarding to allow for proper preparation.

Beyond physical mobility, Alaska's awareness of diverse disability needs is also demonstrated through its free mobile app called "Fly for All." Specifically designed for passengers with cognitive and developmental disabilities, the tool helps travelers prepare for the journey through visual guides, with step-by-step support to help travelers combat airport anxiety throughout the entire process.

While detailed wheelchair mishandling statistics aren't as readily available for international carriers as they are for U.S. airlines, several global airlines have implemented notable accessibility features for wheelchair users. For one, there's Qantas — Australia's flagship carrier — which has positioned itself as a leader in this space, offering comprehensive "meet and assist" services that support wheelchair users from check-in to their departure gate, arrival gate, and baggage claim. The airline's reduced rates for travelers and their caregivers also makes it a top choice for longer flights, and certain aircrafts (A380 and A330) also offer access to wheelchair-friendly toilets that make the entire journey seamless and dignified.

Virgin Atlantic has also emphasized its commitment to accessibility. The British carrier offers a wide range of assistance options for passengers with medical requirements or mobility needs — including bathrooms with grab rails and onboard wheelchairs — to ensure its signature service is always considered accessible. Similarly, Emirates has developed accessible seating options across its fleet, with the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft featuring movable aisle armrests and extra legroom seats.

Lastly, British Airways also stands out for offering three different service levels to accommodate individuals with disabilities. With the understanding that different travelers have varied mobility needs, the airline allows passengers to choose which service level they need when booking. These typically range from basic wheelchair assistance to full-service support for getting to and from the aircraft, plus additional in-cabin mobility aids.

Successfully traveling with a wheelchair is all about doing your research. Start by looking into potential airlines and making the most of their accessible booking options before simply trying to buy your flight online. As a tip, always provide them with detailed information about your wheelchair's dimensions, weight, and whether it folds or disassembles to prevent any mishaps. Additionally, this is also the perfect time to request specific seating arrangements and pre-arrange any assistance you might need.

Before your travel day, thoroughly document your wheelchair with time-stamped photos from multiple angles, focusing on any existing damage. Along with this, it's also worth creating simple handling instructions for airline staff — especially if your chair has special folding mechanisms or removable parts — and packing all essential components (like cushions or battery chargers) in your carry-on luggage. Once it's time to travel, arrive at the airport with enough time to check-in and clear security, and reconfirm with the airline if all of your pre-arranged services are in place.

That said, even in the most well-planned journeys, accidents can still happen. In the unfortunate event that an airline damages your wheelchair, make sure to document the damage with photos, file a report with the airline before leaving the airport, and request a written confirmation of your complaint. All of this will be crucial for any compensation claims and will help ensure that the airline addresses the issue properly.

Our methodology for identifying the best airlines for wheelchair users combined official data with real-world experiences. To land on our top picks, we analyzed statistics provided by the Department of Transportation on wheelchair mishandling rates, which provided objective measurements of how carriers handle mobility equipment.

Beyond the statistics, we scoured forums like Reddit's r/disability and r/wheelchairs communities, where travelers candidly share their experiences. Although personal stories can be subjective and sometimes conflicting, these different points of view provided valuable insights into the day-to-day realities wheelchair users face while flying. Lastly, we also reviewed specialized blogs by wheelchair travelers who fly frequently and examined each airline's published accessibility policies to ensure these recommendations were based on up-to-date information and practices. Once we were done, this multi-faceted approach helped us identify airlines that not only have strong statistical performance, but that also receive praise from the community they serve.