Transiting Atlanta airport with mobility scooter.

Question

We will be arriving at Atlanta from Manchester with a mobility scooter and then catching a domestic flight to Las Vegas.

Will we be united with the scooter shortly after leaving the plane or will it be waiting at the baggage claim?

When we recheck-in our luggage can we keep the scooter with us until the domestic departure gate?

Our travel agents have informed special assistance about the scooter. First flight is Virgin Atlantic, then domestic with Delta. Wheelchair assistance is booked, but we don't need a wheelchair if we can use the scooter. Have only done single flights before with a scooter, never transitted.

Answer

Transiting through Atlanta airport with a mobility scooter is generally straightforward, but there are a few important details to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transfer between flights. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect:

Upon arrival at Atlanta from Manchester, your mobility scooter will likely not be immediately available as you exit the plane. Typically, it will be brought to the jet bridge or gate area once the plane has parked and passengers disembark. However, in most cases, if your scooter is too large to fit in the cabin, it will be sent to baggage claim for pickup. So, once you exit the plane, you should head to the baggage claim area for your scooter.

When it comes to rechecking your luggage for the domestic flight to Las Vegas, you'll need to drop off your checked baggage at the Delta check-in counter or the appropriate recheck desk. Here’s the key point: You should be able to keep your scooter with you as you make your way to the departure gate for the domestic flight. Delta and Virgin Atlantic both have procedures to accommodate passengers using mobility devices. Your scooter will usually be tagged and sent to the gate for boarding (if it's not too large to fit through the cabin door). You can use it to navigate the airport until you need to board your next flight.

Since you've already informed your travel agents and special assistance about your mobility scooter, the airlines will be prepared to assist you. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with both Virgin Atlantic and Delta the exact handling of your scooter during the transit process. They may have specific protocols depending on the size of your scooter and whether it’s folded or not. Ensure that you're clear about whether you can keep the scooter until the gate, or if it will be sent to baggage claim at some point during the transfer.

As far as wheelchair assistance is concerned, since you have the scooter, you likely won't need to request a wheelchair unless you find it necessary. Your scooter should allow you to move around the terminal comfortably, and both airlines should provide assistance in case you encounter any difficulty during your transit.

To summarize:

Your mobility scooter will typically be sent to baggage claim once you leave the plane, unless it’s small enough to be gate-checked.
You should be able to keep the scooter with you until your domestic flight gate unless the airport or airline requires you to check it at some point.
Confirm with Virgin Atlantic and Delta about the handling of your scooter and check whether they have specific procedures for scooters during the transit process.
Since you have booked wheelchair assistance, you can ask for additional support if needed, but your scooter should be sufficient for moving around the airport.

With these preparations, your transit through Atlanta should go smoothly, and you'll be able to use your scooter comfortably during your layover. Safe travels to Las Vegas!

Transiting Atlanta airport with mobility scooter.

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