Spirit Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

Navigating air travel with a wheelchair may seem overwhelming, but being informed about your rights and the airline’s procedures can make a big difference. The following details can assist you if you need Spirit Airlines’ wheelchair assistance while traveling. It provides concise, useful information about how to ask for help and what to expect at the airport, and Spirit is dedicated to serving travelers with special needs. 

Knowing what to do ahead of time helps guarantee a more comfortable and smooth travel experience, from check-in to boarding and departure. With the right preparation, you can travel confidently, knowing support is available every step. Let us look into Spirit Airlines’ special and wheelchair assistance services at length. 

The Process of Requesting Wheelchair Assistance At Spirit Airlines:

Request wheelchair assistance in advance for prompt service. Here are the available methods to arrange it and ensure a smooth, accessible airport experience.

• Online:
  Go to Spirit Airlines’ homepage and click on the “My Trips” section. Locate your reservation and scroll to the “Passenger” section. Click “ADD” next to “Additional Info.” You can then choose the wheelchair assistance option that best fits your mobility needs.

• By Phone or Text:
  

To request wheelchair assistance, use Spirit Airlines’ contact number directly at 855-728-3555. A representative will guide you through the process. You can also text the same number to make your request. This option is ideal for those who prefer personal communication or need help quickly.

• At the Airport:
  

If you haven’t pre-booked assistance, help is still available at the airport. Upon arrival, visit Spirit’s ticket counter. Staff members or on-site wheelchair service providers will assist you. It’s best to arrive early to ensure timely support before security screening and boarding.

Therefore, to experience a smooth and safe flight, arrive at least two hours before domestic flights or three hours before international flights. If curbside assistance is needed, a companion can request it at the ticket counter on your behalf.

What Does Spirit Airlines’ Wheelchair Assistance Include?

Spirit Airlines offers a wide range of services for passengers needing mobility support:

• Apart from providing you with wheelchairs, the Spirit Airlines authorities will help you print boarding passes and check in baggage.
  
• Their team will escort you through TSA security checkpoints.
  
• You can stop at restrooms or restaurants on the way to your gate (time permitting). Although Spirit staff can escort passengers to restrooms, they do not assist inside the restrooms.
  
• Regular check-ins at the gate (every 30 minutes).
  
• Early boarding if requested.
  
• Gate change assistance if needed. You may alert a Spirit team member if needed

Spirit Airlines’ Accessibility Services: Onboard and Aisle Wheelchairs

For passengers who require help getting to their seat or moving around during the flight:

• Aisle wheelchair request:

You may request an aisle wheelchair in advance to help you comfortably board the aircraft and safely reach your assigned seat without difficulty.

• Informing a team member:

Notify a Spirit Team Member at your boarding gate if you need an aisle chair so they can arrange timely assistance for your boarding.

• Boarding assistance:

Two specially trained Spirit agents will assist in transferring you from the jet bridge into the aisle chair and help you settle into your seat.

• Inflight wheelchair use:

If needed mid-flight, a Flight Attendant can offer an onboard wheelchair to help access the lavatory, although lavatory size and accessibility may differ by aircraft.

• Pre-boarding for mobility needs:

Spirit offers pre-boarding to Guests with mobility challenges. Arrive early at the gate and notify the staff before general boarding begins for smooth access.

What to Do Upon Arrival?

After landing:

• Once the plane lands, you must remain seated and buckled up until all other passengers have departed. This guarantees security and makes it simpler to get help if necessary.

• If you require a wheelchair or mobility assistance, inform a Flight Attendant as early as possible so that arrangements can be made before deplaning.

• The staff will go straight to your seat when everyone has left, help you board the jet bridge, and lead you securely to your wheelchair.

• Depending on your travel requirements, wheelchair staff will accompany you to the baggage claim area or to your connecting aircraft gate.

Cargo Door Clearance for Scooters and Manual Wheelchairs:

• Spirit Airlines is dedicated to making your journey as easy as possible and welcome wheelchairs and scooters on their flights. All Spirit Airlines aircraft have cargo doors that measure 71.64 by 48.84 inches. If your mobility device exceeds these dimensions, you cannot travel with it. 

• If they cannot accommodate your device due to size or space limitations on the day of travel, they will rebook you on the next available Spirit flight at no extra cost. They will examine your case for a potential payment of the fee difference if you are forced to take a more costly Spirit flight.

• To request a review, select “Let’s Chat,” input “Wheelchair Cargo,” and get in touch with Guest Care Team. Please provide the dimensions of the device, the reason it was rejected, the flight information, the confirmation code, and the price of the other ticket. Refunds that have been verified are given out within 30 days.

Also Read: Qatar Airways Wheelchair Assistance

Spirit Airlines’ Guidelines for Traveling with Your Personal Wheelchair

If you are carrying your own mobility device, it is suggested that you check the Spirit Airlines website for comprehensive handling guidelines or speak with their customer service representatives before your flight. It is more flexible and comfortable to bring your own wheelchair, and the airline does its best to accommodate these devices on board.

• Battery-Powered Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids:

To ensure proper handling and boarding procedures, it is important to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled flight if you are traveling with a battery-powered mobility aid. 

In general, Spirit staff will load and store the device in an upright position without requiring you to detach the battery or disassemble the equipment, but if disassembling is necessary, they may request detailed instructions. 

Travelers are advised to fill out the Guest Mobility Aid Information form, which provides important information about the device’s structure, disassembly steps, and battery type.

• Understanding Battery Types and Transportation Guidelines:

Spirit Airlines accepts various battery types under specific conditions. Each type—spillable, non-spillable, and lithium-ion has its own set of handling rules:

1. Spillable Batteries (Wet Cell):

Spillable batteries require careful handling:

• The battery must be disconnected and the terminals insulated to prevent short circuits.
• The device must be secured and transported upright, or the battery must be removed and placed in a leak-proof, approved container.
• Damaged or visibly defective batteries will not be accepted.

2. Non-Spillable Batteries (Dry Cell/Gel Cell):

Non-spillable batteries are more straightforward:

• The battery can remain attached if the device is protected against accidental activation, or it must be disconnected and terminals insulated.
• It must be securely fastened and stowed upright, or packed in a Spirit-approved battery box.
• These batteries must comply with 49 CFR Part 173.159a(d) and Special Provision 130 of federal regulations.
  

3. Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Lithium-ion batteries require specific precautions due to fire risks:

• The battery terminals must be protected from short circuits (e.g., taped or housed).
• The battery must be securely attached, and the device must be protected from accidental activation.
• If the battery is removable, it must be carried onboard and:
  
  • Not exceed 300 watt-hours, and
    
  • Be packed with terminals protected (e.g., in original packaging or a plastic bag).
    

If the battery is not designed to be removed, it may remain installed, regardless of watt-hour rating, provided it has passed the required UN safety tests under 49 CFR Part 173.185.

• Carrying Spare Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Spirit allows you to carry spare or removed lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on baggage only, subject to the following limits:

• One (1) spare battery up to 300 watt-hours, or
• Two (2) spare batteries, each up to 160 watt-hours.
  

Spare batteries must be:

• Packed in non-conductive material (e.g., plastic bags),
• Separated from other conductive items to avoid contact,
• The terminals must be protected using caps, tape, or individual pouches.
  

For up-to-date safety guidelines, Spirit recommends checking the FAA’s website for traveling with batteries. Spirit Airlines also advises travelers to provide their executives with written instructions to help them handle the device safely and with utmost care and concern. You can bring in the user manual of your mobility aid or even fill out the form for Mobility Aid Information that you will get on their official website. 

What Else Spirit Airlines Offers: Special Assistance Services

Spirit Airlines’ special assistance program offers various services to make your journey safe and comfortable. Here’s a list of services that you may find;

• Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC):

This would be of immense help to those with respiratory issues. 

• Spirit Airlines flights are allowed to use Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) that have been approved by the FAA. A POC is a medical device that provides the user with concentrated oxygen. 
• The device must either have a permanent label attesting to FAA compliance or be on the FAA’s approved list to be allowed for use in flight. 
• Devices without this are not allowed to be used on the aircraft, however, they are allowed to be checked or carried on as long as they meet Spirit is weight and size restrictions. 
• POCs are free to carry unless they are bundled with other objects and are regarded as supportive equipment. 
• Passengers should have enough non-spillable battery juice for 150% of the entire journey because Spirit aircraft do not have electrical outlets. Batteries need to be kept out of harm’s way and in carry-on luggage. They also don’t have provisions for medical oxygen onboard. 
• POCs must be kept under the seat during driving, takeoff, and landing, and are not allowed in exit rows. However, it is strictly forbidden to use liquid oxygen.
• Guests using POCs won’t be allowed the exit row seats. Instead, they’ll be assigned a window seat. A middle seat is permissible if there’s no one seated by the window. Moreover, an aisle seat is also allowed, provided the middle and window seats are vacant. 

• Special Assistance for Allergies:

Despite best efforts to offer a safe and comfortable travel experience, Spirit Airlines does not guarantee an allergen-free environment aboard the aircraft or in public airport facilities such as ticketing counters and gates. When arriving and while traveling, guests with severe allergies should inform their gate agents and flight crew. They strongly advise preparing for any allergen exposure by taking all appropriate medical precautions.

• Peanut Allergies: 

On board, Spirit Airlines sells peanuts. However, they will establish a peanut-free buffer zone by prohibiting the sale of nut goods in your row, the row in front and behind, and neighboring seats if you notify their personnel. Visitors will be instructed not to eat anything that contains peanuts while in these places. They can not stop others from bringing theirs, though. If you want to clean your seat, preboarding is an option, upon prior notification. 

• Animal Allergies: 

Pets and trained service animals are allowed. The Spirit Airlines authorities will do their best to seat guests with allergies at a considerable distance from the animals when notified about the same beforehand. If that’s not possible, then the authorities will do their utmost to transfer the passenger in question to another Spirit flight, if that’s possible. Some animals onboard have a functional purpose to assist individuals with disability. Spirit Airlines doesn’t guarantee informing passengers about/ the animal’s presence beforehand. That’s why they advise passengers to take medical precautions beforehand to combat allergies.

• Accompany Someone to their Gate:

Only people helping a person with a disability or accompanying an unaccompanied minor are eligible for gate permits. You must present a legitimate government-issued ID at the ticket counter to receive a pass. After making a reservation, call 855-728-3555 to get the name and relationship of the approved person to meet a disabled guest. The airport has the final say on the gate pass issue, which is based on the most recent security regulations for non-travelers.

• Onboard Assistance: Accessible Lavatory Options

Spirit Airlines provides onboard wheelchair assistance using an aisle chair to help passengers reach their seats after boarding. Accessible lavatories are available on Airbus A320 (32A/32N) and A321 (32B) aircraft. These lavatories are designed for individuals using an onboard wheelchair to enter, exit, and maneuver independently. Two single lavatories in the aft portion can be combined into a larger one to accommodate passengers with disabilities.

To check if your flight offers accessible lavatories, you can chat with an agent, or call or text them at 855-SAVE-555.

• Deaf or Hard of Hearing Assistance:

Here is what Spirit has to offer for those with hearing impairment.

• If you’re Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Spirit Airlines encourages you to add any service needs during your online booking. If you’ve already booked, services can be added via the My Trips section or by calling 855-728-3555 (TTY/TTD dial 711). 

• Please let station agents know how you would like to be contacted and if you need any help. Although specific medical information is not requested, providing useful details enables us to better serve your requirements.

• If you would prefer to preboard, simply notify the gate agent ahead of time and arrive before boarding starts. To get individualized safety briefings or boarding updates, please inform the crew at the gate or on board that you have hearing impairments

• For guests who want gate assistance, Spirit offers a complimentary Meet and Assist service. A personal care helper is advised when necessary, as we are unable to assist with personal care duties or stay with you while you wait. Guests requiring such services should ensure that they go up to the Spirit representative and identify themselves to get prompt assistance.

• Blind or Low Vision:

Spirit Airlines helps visitors who are blind or visually impaired. You can ask for assistance when making your reservation online, later via the My Trips section, or by calling 855-728-3555 a call. 

In addition to giving advance notice, please let the representative know about your impairment at the airport. They do not need detailed medical information, but the more you provide, the better they can help. 

For individuals who require additional time, they provide preboarding and meet-and-assist services. If you want to preboard, inform the gate agent. If you would require assistance or a personal safety briefing, please let the gate crew or aboard staff know.

• Assistive Devices:

Here are some aspects to consider regarding Spirit Airlines’ rules for assistive devices. 

• As long as assistance tools and medications are packed separately from other baggage, Spirit Airlines does not charge for them, and they do not count against your baggage allowance. 

• Agents will confirm that the bag is only filled with assistive devices; if it is filled with other items, standard baggage fees will be charged. 

• Canes, crutches, foldable walkers, and knee scooters are examples of small assistance devices that should be transported on board if they measure less than 39x26x11 inches. 

• Spirit will check them for free if they go above this limit. Wheelchairs with manual or battery-operated components can be examined at the entrance or ticket desk and brought on board. 

• On a first-come basis, folding manual wheelchairs may be kept in the cabin (no more than two each flight). Chairs that run on batteries need to be inspected. Spirit encourages travelers to attach written instructions to the device for safe handling. 

• Assistance requests can be entered at the time of booking or later through customer service or the “My Trips” area.

• Spirit Airlines offers complimentary Meet and Assist service for mobile Guests needing help to or from the gate. At all times, guests must identify themselves to the staff. There is no ongoing supervision, personal care, or help with activities like eating or using the restroom; if necessary, a personal care assistant is advised.

• Traveling with a Trained Service Animal:

Here are some rules and regulations to follow when traveling on Spirit Airlines with a service animal.

• To travel with a trained service dog on Spirit Airlines, passengers must complete and submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before departure.

• The completed form may be provided at the airport if online submission is not possible, however, more time should be given for review. Travel under the pet insurance or rebooking may be available if the form is not approved before departure.

• Every document needs to be filled out completely, dated on or after the flight purchase, and contain current records of rabies vaccinations.

• Each visitor may bring up to two service animals, but only dogs are permitted. If you are travelling with cats or rabbits, they’ll be treated as pets and not service animals.

• Service dogs must act properly, stay within the foot area of the visitor, and avoid blocking other visitors or aisles.

• Dogs are not allowed in emergency escape rows, on airplane seats, or on seats with inflated seat belts. Although they may travel as pets if qualified, therapy animals, emotional support animals, and service animals in training are not considered service animals under this policy.

• Traveling abroad may require additional documents. False information is a federal violation, and the DOT form is a legal document. Travelers who need assistance should check the specifics of the pet relief area at the airport or get in touch with Spirit Guest Service.

• If your dog displays disruptive behaviour in the cabin that includes howling, lunging, growling, barking, and so on, then it won’t be permitted onboard. 

• Guests Traveling With a Disability:

Spirit Airlines’ special assistance team will do its best to help Guests with disabilities. You can add needed services to your reservation via My Trips or call/text 855-728-3555. At the airport, you must inform an agent for assistance. For service details, check their accessibility articles on the official website. To learn about your rights, review the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights.

Conclusion:

Spirit Airlines provides attentive wheelchair and mobility assistance services from curbside to cabin to deliver inclusive travel experiences. Spirit is dedication to accessibility makes sure you are never flying alone, whether you are using your own device or require assistance at the airport and throughout flight. Passengers with mobility issues can travel with confidence, safety, and respect if they prepare ahead of time and know exactly what to expect.

FAQs: