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What does airport assistance for disabled travelers include?

What does airport assistance for disabled travelers include?

Wheelchair assistance is managed by airlines. To ensure you have access to the services you need within the airport and on your flight, please contact your airline. That being said, both IAH and HOU airports offer accessible shuttles, elevators and Skyway access, tactile signage, ADA-compliant restrooms, and more.

Below is a more detailed look at how both IAH and HOU support accessible travel solutions, especially for accessible travel services for seniors, individuals with mobility challenges, and those using wheelchair accessible travel:

1. Wheelchair Assistance (Provided by Airlines)
  • Airports themselves do not directly provide wheelchairs to passengers, those are arranged through your airline. Travelers should request wheelchair or electric cart service in advance or when checking in at the ticket counter.
  • Under U.S. federal regulations (Air Carrier Access Act), the airline must assist you from the terminal entrance or curbside through checkpoints, to your gate, and onto the aircraft, and similarly onsite when arriving.
2. Accessible Shuttles & Parking
  • Accessible parking spaces are available on all levels of airport-owned garages with shuttles that accommodate wheelchairs.
  • The ecopark shuttles are wheelchair-accessible so passengers can be transported from remote lots to terminals.
3. Skyway, Trains & Terminal Connections

One major advantage at IAH is the internal transit systems to connect terminals:

  • The Skyway (above-ground automated people-mover) and the inter-terminal Subway (below-ground train) are both fully wheelchair accessible. These help travelers move between terminals without needing to walk long distances.
  • That makes accessible travel more seamless, especially for those using mobility devices or needing minimal walking between gates.
4. Security, Restrooms, & Inclusive Facilities
Restrooms & Facilities
  • Both airports have ADA-compliant restrooms. IAH also offers family restrooms and companion care facilities throughout the terminal.
  • At HOU, companion care restrooms are specifically located between Gate 45 and Gate 47, next to Starbucks, across from the Interfaith Chapel.
Security Screening
  • Both airports support TSA Cares, a program that provides additional assistance for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and those needing special screening. Travelers should contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours in advance.
  • Under these services, travelers with disabilities might receive help navigating the security checkpoint, guidance through the process, or additional screening accommodations.
5. Service Animals, Signage & Sensory Support
  • Service animals are welcome at both airports. Designated Service Animal Relief Areas (SARA) exist post-security. At IAH, these areas are placed in each terminal near major gates (A, B, C, D, E).
  • Sunflower Lanyard program: For those with non-visible disabilities, passengers can discreetly request a Sunflower Lanyard to alert staff of needed accommodations.
  • Airports provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, Aira services (for blind or low vision), and other support for visible and invisible disabilities.
6. Tips for Travelers Who Need Accessibility Support
  • Book early and communicate: At the time of booking your flight, request the wheelchair or mobility assistance you need.
  • Self-identify on arrival: Let staff at ticketing or the gate know you need accessible travel services.
  • Plan for extra time: Allow more buffer for security checks or transit between terminals.
  • Confirm connections: If you have a connecting flight, ensure assistance is arranged for the full journey.
  • Use assistive services: Such as TSA Cares, Sunflower Lanyard, or Aira for vision assistance.

Final Thought

Accessible travel isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but at Houston’s airports, both IAH and HOU strive to provide comprehensive accessible travel services, accessible travel solutions, and support for wheelchair accessible travel. From accessible shuttles and Skyway systems to restrooms, service animal areas, and more, the airports are designed to remove barriers and make travel smoother for everyone. Just remember: your airline will provide the wheelchair or cart, you only need to request it.