Southwest Wheelchair Assistance

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24 September 2025

Southwest Wheelchair Assistance: Travel Made Simple

Flying can be intimidating for anyone but the experience can be downright frightening for mobility impaired passengers. Moving through crowded terminals and gates as well as security screening can be difficult if you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid. The Southwest wheelchair assistance service aims to address this and make flying accessible and easy for everyone.
 
Understanding the Southwest wheelchair assistance program allows you to plan with ease if you're flying for the first time or even if you're a regular flyer seeking an understanding of how things work. This blog breaks it down with key questions and clear answers. Call Southwest at 1-800-435-9792 or WinkTravelDeals at +1-866-579-8033 for more details.
 

What Is Southwest Wheelchair Assistance?

The Southwest Airlines wheelchair assistance is offered complimentary to all mobility-impaired passengers. The assistance involves check-in, security, boarding, and deplaning assistance. The objective is to allow mobility-impaired passengers to travel with the same convenience and respect as all other passengers.
 
The Southwest wheelchair assistance facility is available at all Southwest serviced airports but it must be requested either in advance or at the airport.
 

How Do You Request Southwest Wheelchair Assistance?

There are three main ways to request Southwest Airlines wheelchair assistance:
 
  • During Booking: Select “Special Assistance” when reserving your flight online or through the app.
  • After Booking: Use the “Manage Reservations” feature to update your request.
  • At the airport: Visit the ticket counter or gate to request help if you didn’t do it beforehand.
Requesting Southwest wheelchair assistance early is recommended. It allows staff to be ready when you arrive.
 

What Happens When You Arrive at the Airport?

Southwest will have someone assist you at the ticket counter or curbside check-in and assist you along the way. They will take you through TSA security and escort you to your gate and help with boarding.
 
A wheelchair attendant will also be available at the gate or plane door to escort you through baggage claim or on to your next flight connection on landing at your destination.
 

Can You Use Your Own Wheelchair On Southwest?

Yes, Southwest allows you to travel with your own manual or powered wheelchair.
 
  • Manual chairs can usually be gate-checked and returned to you right outside the aircraft after landing.
  • Powered chairs require special handling. You will need to provide details about the chair’s weight, battery type and any handling instructions.
  • Southwest offers a mobility aid information form that can be completed before your trip to make things easier.

Is There Preboarding for Southwest Wheelchair Assistance Users?

Yes, Southwest offers preboarding for travelers who need extra time or Southwest wheelchair assistance. Just talk to the gate agent when boarding starts and they will issue a preboarding pass. This allows you early access to the plane so you can get comfortable without the crush of general boarding.
 

What About Restroom Access During the Flight?

Southwest airplanes don't have wheelchairs on board. Those who cannot walk to the restroom on their own will have a problem particularly on longer flights. The airline recommends using the restroom before the flight. Look into an airline that offers onboard wheelchair service if access to the restroom mid-flight is a priority.
 

Are There Extra Costs for Southwest Wheelchair Assistance?

There is no charge for Southwest Airlines wheelchair assistance. It is a free service, as are mobility aid check-ins. However, attendants are usually third-party contractors and tipping them for their time and effort is appreciated.
 

How Can You Prepare for a Smoother Southwest Wheelchair Experience?

A little planning can be really helpful in the long run when you require special services like Southwest wheelchair assistance:
 
  • Request assistance early during booking.
  • Arrive at the airport with extra time to allow for security and boarding.
  • Label your wheelchair with your name and flight details.
  • Carry battery documentation if traveling with a powered chair.
  • Be clear with flight attendants about the level of help you need.

Conclusion

Accessible travel is not luxurious but essential. Wheelchair accommodations enable air travel for most passengers. Southwest Airlines makes it a point to keep mobility issues from inhibiting individuals from meeting loved ones, chasing opportunities or traveling to new destinations by providing the service. You may contact Southwest customer service at 1-800-435-9792 or WinkTravelDeals at +1-866-579-8033 in case of any questions or additional information about Southwest wheelchair assistance.

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