Gulliver's Travels | Alinker Accessories

When you are traveling by plane, make sure you request either wheelchair assistance or special assistance when you purchase your ticket. You don't need to use it, but it is nice to have set up before hand in case you do. 

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When you arrive to the airport, have the mindset that your Alinker is your Mobility Device, and it should be treated as such. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your gate. Seek out lines for Special Assistance, use elevators, handicap restrooms, etc. If anyone stops you to say you cannot ride your bike, you speak up and explain this is your new Walking Wheelchair. Usually their demeanor will change as they are seeing something new and don't understand quite what it is yet. It is a learning experience for them. 

 

DO NOT check your Alinker! Roll up to the gate and ask the agent for a "Wheelchair tag". Stress that it has to be a wheelchair tag and not a Special Handling tag, like for a stroller.  If they argue with you, tell them that this is a Walking Wheelchair and your Mobility Device.

 

If you have a layover or transfer, be sure to tell the Agent as well, as the may not think to ask. You should be allowed to board the plane in the first group with the parents and military, before First class. This part will go fast so get prepared!

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Here we go!!!

• Walk your Alinker down the tarmac right to the plane door.  Pull over to the side and get off your Alinker. Disconnect any luggage you were towing, if applicable, and set them to the side and out of peoples way.

• Leave your wheels and seat on, but fold it up. I highly recommend you secure the folded ends with a strong velcro strap or some bungie cords. 

• If you have folding handlebars like I do, make sure you secure them folded around the base as well. 

• Leave your Alinker sitting next to the little door to the right, don't forget your bags and board the plane.  Trust that they will get your Alinker and safely put it in the belly of the plane. Cross your fingers and pray!

• When you land, take your time to debark the plane, and stand next to that door on the tarmac where you left it, depending where you fly and if they actually did what they are supposed to do, they will bring your Alinker to you. This is what the Wheelchair Tag is for, if it is any other tag, it will go to baggage claim.   

• This can be a high anxiety moment, waiting for them to bring it up to you. Sometimes it can take a long time and if you are in a layover, it can be even more nerve wracking. Hopefully they do not take it to Baggage Claim! Remain calm and if you cannot stand, ask an attendant or agent to keep an eye out for it while you go sit down and they will bring it to you. 

• If it is there when you step off the plane or they bring it while you wait, you will have to hurry to unstrap it and unfold it, then you can walk it up to the gate, not riding it because it is usually an incline so just walk it. Don't forget to connect your carryon luggage you are towing. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance and be mindful for those who are also getting off the plane. 

• If they do NOT bring your Alinker, request a wheelchair push or golfcart ride to retrieve your mobility device. Use this time to take notes for your official complaint to the airline. 

• Remember, it is not the flight attendant or gate agents faults if they don't bring your Alinker, it was miscommunication with the loaders. If you inquire nicely, hopefully someone will go above and beyond to help you. Get their name so you can give them praise when you contact the airline and airport to complain. 

• NOTE: if you have a layover and they bring your Alinker to you when you get off the plane, and you have only carryon bags, you can go directly to the next plane and will have to let the gate agent know all over again.  So make sure you have a large enough window in your layover, adding at least 2 hours between your flights. I would never go less than that. 

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Disclaimer: After consulting with my brother who is a flight attendant, and travelling with my Alinker many times, these tips helped me to efficiently have a successful flight. If you have more challenges with your mobility, your experience may differ. Be empowered to ask for assistance when needed, and to advocate for yourself. I will update this section if I learn of any new hacks or tips to help in your journey. Good luck and happy traveling!! :)