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Wheelchair assistance through airport

I’m travelling from UK to Dallas via Atlanta. I have wheelchair assistance arranged for my husband who is disabled.

How easy will the process be for us from international arrival through the airport processes to an onward domestic flight?

Thanks in advance

At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the process for wheelchair assistance is typically smooth, but it’s important to be aware of the steps and possible wait times involved. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect during your journey from international arrival to your domestic flight connection:

1. Arrival at the Airport: Upon landing at ATL, you will arrive at the International Terminal (Terminal F) for customs and immigration. Wheelchair assistance should be provided from the aircraft to the immigration area, but it’s a good idea to double-check with your airline or the airport assistance services to ensure this is confirmed before your flight.

2. Customs and Immigration: Once you arrive at the immigration area, the process can take a little longer, depending on the time of day and the number of international flights arriving. The wheelchair assistant will help you navigate through customs and immigration. Be aware that there may be lines, so it could take up to 30 minutes or more. If needed, ask for expedited assistance for quicker processing.

3. Baggage Claim and Connecting Flight: After clearing customs, you'll need to retrieve your checked luggage from the baggage claim area. The wheelchair assistance team can help with retrieving your luggage. Once you have your bags, they will escort you to the recheck desk for your onward domestic flight. You will need to go through security again to enter the domestic terminal.

  • The wheelchair assistant can help with the baggage recheck process. If your luggage is not checked through to Dallas, make sure to confirm the procedure with the airline ahead of time.
  • After rechecking your luggage, you will go through the TSA screening for your domestic flight. The wheelchair assistant will help you with the screening process, but you may be asked to transfer to a chair for screening.

4. Domestic Flight Connection: Once you clear security, your wheelchair assistant will escort you to the appropriate gate for your domestic flight to Dallas. Be sure to confirm the gate details ahead of time, as ATL is a large airport with many terminals. If needed, your assistant can also help with navigating the airport’s transportation systems (like the shuttle or SkyTrain) to get to your next terminal.

5. Additional Tips:

  • Make sure your wheelchair assistance is booked in advance, and confirm all details with your airline and the airport assistance team.
  • Allow plenty of time for connections, as the distance between terminals at ATL can be significant, especially for international to domestic connections. Plan for at least 2 hours between flights.
  • If you have any specific requests (such as extra time at security or a particular route to your gate), make sure to communicate them to the airport or airline ahead of time.

Overall, the wheelchair assistance process through Atlanta Airport should be straightforward, but it’s always a good idea to confirm details ahead of time and allow extra time for your connection.

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