Traveling to New Orleans with a disability? Picking the right airline can make things a lot smoother. Airlines like Delta, Southwest, United, and Alaska Airlines actually do a pretty solid job offering services that make flying more accessible for disabled travelers.
They’ll help with wheelchair assistance, let you bring your own mobility devices, and can even help you skip some of those endless lines.
New Orleans’ airports work closely with these airlines to support disabled passengers from check-in all the way to boarding. If you know which airlines are best for accessibility and what kind of help you can get, you’ll probably have a better trip. Honestly, that’s half the battle—figuring out the details so you can actually enjoy yourself.
Key Takeways
- Choose airlines with dedicated accessibility services for smoother travel.
- Airport staff and facilities in New Orleans are prepared to assist disabled travelers.
- Planning with accessible options can make your trip more comfortable and stress-free.
Top Airlines Prioritizing Accessibility for Disabled Travelers
Airlines serving New Orleans offer services designed to make travel easier for disabled passengers. You’ll find help with wheelchairs, special seating, and support for mobility devices like walkers. It’s worth checking what each airline can do for you before you book.
Prominent Airlines Serving New Orleans
A few airlines really stand out for accessibility at New Orleans International Airport. American Airlines, Southwest, Delta, and United are all in the mix and have solid policies for helping disabled travelers.
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance from curb to gate. Southwest not only lets you bring your own wheelchair but also gives you priority boarding. Delta supports service animals and helps with mobility devices. United puts a lot of focus on clear communication for passengers with disabilities.
When you’re booking, take a look at the airline’s policy about notifying them in advance. Giving them a heads-up makes everything go a lot smoother when you show up.
Wheelchair and Mobility Device Assistance
Most major airlines at New Orleans International Airport provide wheelchair assistance. This covers help with boarding, deplaning, and getting around the airport.
You can bring your own wheelchair or use one from the airport. Airlines will help you gate-check your device so it’s safe during your flight.
If you use a walker or another mobility device, tell the airline as soon as you can. They’ll take extra care with your equipment. It’s a good idea to confirm your needs at least 48 hours before you fly.
Seating and In-Flight Accessibility
There are special seating options to meet disabled travelers’ needs. You might get a seat with more legroom or space for a service animal.
If you need help with seatbelts or getting to the restroom, flight attendants are trained for that. Some airlines even have priority boarding so you can get settled before the crowd.
Don’t forget to request any specific accommodations—like seats near the front or extra space—when you book. It gives the airline time to get things ready for you.
Airport Services and Facilities for Disabled Passengers
New Orleans International Airport has quite a few features to make things easier. You’ll find accessible restrooms, clear access points, and staff who actually know how to help. These services can make your time at the airport less stressful.
Accessible Parking and Drop-off Points
There are parking spaces close to the terminals just for disabled passengers. They’re wider, so it’s easier to get in and out of your vehicle. Look for the signs—they’re hard to miss.
Drop-off spots near the entrance are designed for quick, safe access. There are curb cuts and ramps, so you won’t have to deal with steps. If you use a wheelchair, these features really help you get inside without hassle.
Restrooms, ATMs, and Post Office Accessibility
Restrooms throughout the airport are built for wheelchair users. You’ll notice wider doors, grab bars, and lowered sinks. They’re marked clearly, so you don’t have to wander around looking.
ATMs are set at a height that’s actually usable if you’re in a chair. The post office counters nearby also have lowered sections and space for wheelchairs.
Staff Training and Support Services
Staff at New Orleans International Airport are trained to help travelers with disabilities. They know the rules and the best ways to assist.
If you need it, you can get help with boarding or going through security. TSA Cares is available if you want extra security support—just let them know ahead of time.
Customer service staff are usually pretty quick and polite when solving accessibility issues. That goes a long way toward making your airport experience better.
Alternative Accessible Transportation in New Orleans
There are several ways to get around New Orleans besides flying. Trains and buses are set up for mobility device users, and the local transit system can help you reach popular spots.
Accessible Amtrak and Greyhound Options
If you’re arriving or leaving by train, Amtrak’s Crescent service to New Orleans comes with wheelchair-accessible features. Stations have ramps and accessible restrooms, so boarding is less of a hassle. Amtrak staff can help if you let them know in advance.
Greyhound also serves New Orleans with buses that have lifts or ramps and spots for wheelchairs. It’s best to reserve your seat and tell Greyhound about your needs ahead of time so things go smoothly.
Getting Around the French Quarter
Once you’re in the city, the French Quarter is partly accessible. Some sidewalks are smooth and flat—great if you’re using a wheelchair or scooter.
Still, some older streets can be bumpy or narrow, so you’ll want to plan your route. The city bus system has buses with ramps and two wheelchair spots each. Streetcars are an option, but not every line is accessible. Double-check routes and stick to buses with kneeling features and tie-downs for safety.
Inclusive Accommodation and Traveler Resources
New Orleans has hotels with full accessibility in mind. Knowing what to expect lets you pick the right place and plan ahead. There are a few tips that can make your stay easier.
Hotels With Comprehensive Accessibility Features
Lots of hotels in New Orleans offer features for wheelchair users and disabled guests. Look for roll-in showers, lowered sinks, grab bars, and wide doorways. Some rooms have visual alarms and accessible closets.
Booking sites let you filter for specific needs—like space for scooters or a fridge for medication. It’s worth calling the hotel to double-check details about parking and entrances.
Many popular hotels have staff trained to help guests with disabilities. They can assist with luggage, transportation, or special requests during your stay.
Essential Tips for Disabled Travelers
Before flying, let your airline know about any specific needs, like if you’ll need wheelchair assistance. Airlines such as Delta and Southwest that fly into New Orleans usually have some helpful policies for disabled travelers.
It’s smart to bring extra batteries or chargers for your mobility devices. Keep medical supplies in your carry-on so you’re not stranded if your checked bag wanders off.
Request accessible transportation ahead of time if you can. Navigating a new city’s transit can be tricky, so a little planning goes a long way.
Keep key phone numbers and documents somewhere easy to grab. Staying organized can save you a lot of headaches during your trip.