Crutches on an airplane?

Question

I have a stress fracter in my tibia and I need to be walking on crutches. The TSA says they are allowed through security, but what do you do with them once you get on the plane. I do not want a wheelchair, and I can walk through the metal detector without the crutches. Personal experience valued.

Answer 1

They will most likely search you as you go through security, arrive 20 minutes earlier than you would normally. Be polite and cooperative with security.

Most airlines will pre-board for passengers "needing extra time to get down the jet way" I would suggest talking to the gate attendant and politely asking if you can join this group, after all they deal with many many disgruntled passengers a day. Then when you reach the plane notify a flight attendant that you would like their assistance, there is always one standing in the door when you first enter.

Also, as a gesture I would wait for the other passengers to deplane before gathering up your crutches and belongings. Check luggage to help minimize the number of things to remember when leaving the gate area and airplane.

Obviously this is circumstantial but it helps to have patience when dealing with airlines.

Answer 2

Sorry about your condition.  It is good that you can walk through security without your crutches.  Using a wheelie to the gate is up to you.  Once on board, a flight attendant will take your crutches, but in the overhead compartment is not a good idea with the way that everyone slams his or her bag in and especially making the bag to fit.  If you were to need them in flight, visiting the lavatory for example, they would not be readily accessible.  The flight attendants should be aware of this.  It would be best to stow your crutches in a closet if the airplane is so equipped, or in the first class overhead compartment, they might not be as jammed.  Happy landings

Answer 3

I flew occasionally with my grandmother who had knee replacement surgery. Most larger airports will have golf cart like vehicles that can take you to your gate after you check your luggage. Take advantage of them. You do not want to stress your leg and then aggravate it further by sitting in one place so long. You may also have issues with swelling in flight so you want to minimize the stress placed on it all you can.

You won't have any issues getting the crutches through security. When you get to the gate, go to the check in counter and let them know that you need additional time to board. If you are not in an isle seat, ask them to move you so that you can stretch your leg during the flight. Sometimes they will move you to another area of the plane or even business class if they can't seat you in an isle. Some flights also have seats that are handicap accessible that offer more room. This is not the time to be proud. If they offer you special accommodations, take them. You do not want to ruin your trip because your leg is aching more than normal if you can help it.

Once you are on the plane, the flight attendants will store your crutches in the overhead bin or the coat closet. You seem like you will be able to get to the facilities if needed without them so that shouldn't be an issue. Make sure to get up and walk around even a tiny bit if your flight is over 3 hours. That will help your already stressed muscles from cramping up and aching. It will also help reduce swelling that might otherwise be an issue for you.

Answer 4

They might take it off you in security; they took my walking stick. Which I can't walk without.

You'll need to ask for a seat with lots of leg room- and keep at it. Most planes 'forget' and will shove you down the back of the plane.

Answer 5

They will probably stow them either overhead or up front and then bring them to you when you need them.

Answer 6

The flight attendents will take them for you and store them.  Although, good luck with that since now the airlines are going to start charging for each checked bag, so people will be dragging all their stuff on the plane and there might not be any room for your crutches.     I would say:  BE THE FIRST ONE ON THE PLANE.