- Staying Together While Traveling
If you’re flying with a spouse, adult child, or trusted companion, current accessibility policies recognize that you shouldn’t have to navigate the airport alone—even if you can walk independently.
Many airlines now allow a companion to accompany you through security, waiting areas, and boarding, even if tickets were booked separately.
How to request it:
At check-in or at the gate, ask staff to link your reservation with your companion under mobility or accessibility assistance. This prevents unnecessary separation and ensures coordinated boarding and arrival support.
- Priority Boarding Without a Wheelchair
You do not need to use a wheelchair—or even request one—to qualify for assisted boarding.
Joint pain, arthritis, balance issues, fatigue, reduced stamina, recovery from illness, or discomfort standing for long periods are all valid reasons for early boarding.
You are not required to disclose medical details. Simply ask for your boarding pass to include an assistance note.
This allows you to:
Board before crowds
Store carry-on items calmly
Take your seat without rushing or pressure
- Access to Calm Airport Lounges
Many airports now offer accessibility lounges, not just traditional VIP lounges. These spaces are designed specifically for seniors and travelers with mobility or stamina concerns.
They often include:
Quieter environments
Softer lighting
Comfortable seating
Nearby restrooms
Dedicated staff support
If you qualify for assisted boarding, access may be granted at no extra cost—depending on the airport.
- Medical Exemptions at Security
Passengers carrying medications, medical liquids, supplements, CPAP machines, or health devices are no longer required to remove them from bags or place them in screening trays.
In the U.S., this is supported by TSA guidelines and is increasingly recognized internationally.
This helps avoid:
Public exposure of medications
Screening delays
Awkward or stressful interactions
Always inform the security officer calmly before screening begins.
- A Free Additional Medical Bag
You may bring an extra bag exclusively for medical necessities without extra fees. This bag does not count toward your carry-on allowance.
Eligible items include:
Insulin and injectables
CPAP or oxygen equipment
Nebulizers
Blood-pressure monitors
Supplements and cooling containers
The bag must be used only for medical items.
- In-Cabin Refrigeration for Medications
For medications that must remain cool, flight crews can store them in temperature-controlled compartments onboard.
This may apply to:
Insulin
Hormonal treatments
Eye medications
Heat-sensitive prescriptions
Always notify the crew during boarding—never risk your health due to missing information.
- Accessible Seating at No Additional Cost
If you need an aisle seat, extra legroom, proximity to a restroom, or a front-row seat for mobility or health reasons, airlines must provide one free of charge when available.
A medical certificate is generally not required—only a request made under accessibility guidelines.
- Health Devices Stay With You
Essential health and mobility devices must travel with you in the cabin.
This includes:
CPAP machines
Portable oxygen
Orthopedic cushions
Braces or supports
Small mobility aids
Airlines cannot require these items to be checked into cargo.
- Always Confirm Assistance at the Gate
Even if assistance was requested during booking, confirm it again at the gate.
This activates internal procedures requiring staff support during:
Boarding
Arrival
Connections
Deplaning
Never assume the system remembered.
- Hidden Fee Exemptions for Seniors
Many airlines offer senior discounts or fee waivers that are not publicly advertised.
These may include:
Reduced or waived change fees
Phone booking exemptions
Same-day flight adjustment flexibility
They are often applied only when requested, so asking matters.
Practical Travel Tips
Arrive early to reduce pressure
Keep medications clearly organized
Have documents easily accessible
Ask for help calmly and confidently
Do not hesitate to use your rights
If refused, politely request a supervisor
The Bottom Line
Traveling after 65 no longer means accepting exhaustion, stress, or discomfort. These updated policies exist to protect dignity, safety, and peace of mind.
The difference isn’t luck.
It’s knowing what to ask for—and when.
Once you understand the system, the airport stops working against you and starts working for you.