Flying can be a challenging experience, and for many attendees, this may be your first time traveling since your amputation, which can lead to even more anxiety. Getting your ticket and bags checked, going through TSA security lines, and dealing with airlines and other passengers who may not be familiar with your needs can all raise your stress. Hopefully, you’ll find the information and tips below to help reduce any concerns you might have and prepare you for your trip next week.
**Please note that many airports are experiencing longer than usual lines at TSA security checkpoints. Please plan accordingly to accommodate for delays.**
- Be sure to give yourself plenty of time when arriving at the airport. TSA and airlines typically encourage passengers to arrive at least two hours before their flight, but keep in mind that if you’re unfamiliar with the airport or security procedures, or to account for the potential for long lines or additional screening time, it is often recommended that you arrive up to three hours in advance to ensure you give yourself plenty of time.
- If you’re flying to the Conference, check out the Amputee Coalition’s helpful fact sheet to prepare yourself for what to expect when going through TSA security.
- You can also visit the TSA’s travel tips Web site, which provides tips for travelers and has videos outlining what to expect. Some of these videos include what to expect with summer travel, the 3-1-1 liquids rule, prohibited items, pregnant travelers, advanced imaging technology, and more!
- Conference attendees who are flying are highly encouraged to contact the TSA Cares helpline 72 hours before their departure. TSA Cares provides travelers with disabilities with additional assistance during the security screening process. You can visit the TSA Cares Web site or call the TSA Cares helpline at 855/787-2227. TSA Cares’ hours are 8am-11pm EST Monday through Friday, and 9am-8pm EST on weekends and holidays.
- Be sure to check with your airline to see if they allow for additional carry-on items or free checked bags if you’re transporting durable medical equipment like an additional prosthesis, crutches, a cane, a walker or a wheelchair.
- If you need additional assistance when traveling through the airports, we encourage you to contact your airline and let them know you need assistance from the check-in desk, through security, to your gate, and if you need assistance when exiting the aircraft at your destination(s). Your airline should be able to accommodate you with your travel assistance needs.
Travel from airports to the Sheraton Greensboro Hotel:
If you’re flying into the Greensboro, NC airport, the Amputee Coalition has exciting news! You have two free shuttle options to take you from the airport to the hotel. The Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons provides a complimentary shuttle that runs on a limited schedule from the airport and the train station to the hotel and back. To make arrangements for the hotel shuttle for when you arrive, please call 336/292-9161.
Additionally, the Amputee Coalition is offering a complimentary accessible shuttle through CJ Medical Transportation, Inc., which will run every 30 minutes and offer service on Wednesday, June 8 from 8am-8pm to get to the hotel and on Sunday, June 12 from 7:30am-1pm to get to the airport for your return. This shuttle will also run every hour on Saturday, June 11 from 3pm-5pm.
How do I get to these free shuttles?
To make arrangements for the hotel shuttle for when you arrive, please call 336/292-9161.
Both shuttles will pick up from the hotel shuttle pickup location located in the lower level/baggage claim area of the airport. The airport Web site has a terminal map available here.
What if my travel needs are different?
If you want to rent a car or an accessible van, if you’re flying into the airport in Charlotte, North Carolina or Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina, or if you’re coming to the Conference via Amtrak, you can find links and additional information about getting to the National Conference on the Amputee Coalition’s National Conference Travel Page.