Southwest Airlines has long been a favorite airline for many manual wheelchair-users, because they can bypass the aisle chair and use their personal wheelchairs to board the aircraft. This is largely due to the configuration of Southwest Airlines 737 aircraft, as the wide entrance aisle allows many folks to roll right up to the first row of aircraft seats, and skip the aisle chair. Unfortunately, new security additions mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration will change the configuration of the aircraft; and many wheelchair-users who previously used their personal wheelchairs to board Southwest aircraft will now have to use an aisle chair.
New Secondary Cockpit Barriers
So what are these new security additions to Southwest aircraft? Well, after the September 11 attacks, the FAA began to consider implementing higher security measures for US aircraft; however the regulations were not put into place until 2023. These regulations include the installation of secondary cockpit barriers for new aircraft placed into service after that date.
The secondary cockpit barrier is a fold-away door that is attached to the cabin side of the forward galley. This security device is deployed when the cockpit door is opened and closed while in flight. So when someone in the cockpit wishes to exit the cockpit to use the lavatory, the cockpit barrier will be closed by a flight attendant until the crew member returns to the cockpit. Previously, flight attendants used beverage carts to block the aisle, and they stood there until the crew member returned to the cockpit. The new cockpit barrier is a safer and more secure option for the flight crew.
Unfortunately the installation of the secondary cockpit barrier takes a few inches off the already narrow passageway; and as a result many wheelchair-users will no longer be able to access that first row of seats in their own wheelchairs.
Aisle Chair Required
As the new secondary cockpit barriers began to appear on Southwest Airlines 737s in mid-2026, many wheelchair-users reported that their wheelchairs no longer fit past these new security barriers.
It appears that that the addition of the new secondary cockpit barriers have taken off approximately three inches of aisle space. From reports we’ve received, anyone with a wheelchair narrower than 23 inches should still be able to navigate the aisle and transfer into an airplane seat from their own wheelchair. Wheelchair-users with wheelchairs that are wider than 23 inches will now have to use the aisle chair.
Some people ask if this is legal? In a word, yes. The Air Carrier Access Act is the regulation that covers wheelchair-access on commercial airlines in the US. These regulations do not require aircraft aisles to be wide enough to accommodate personal wheelchairs. They do have to be wide enough to accommodate an aisle chair, and this new design allows for that.
So how do you tell if you are going to be on a new 737 with the secondary cockpit barriers installed? Well, unfortunately there’s no 100% way to tell, as equipment changes occur often. Right now only a few of the planes are outfitted with the new devices; however as time passes more and more of the new planes will have them.
Future Flight Preparation
The bottom line is, that if you can’t walk to your seat, you will most likely have to use an aisle chair on Southwest Airlines when the secondary cockpit barriers are installed. And I know that’s a difficult adjustment. Many folks fly Southwest specifically because they don’t have to use an aisle chair to board the aircraft. And that will no longer be an option for many folks in the future.
The good news is that aisle chairs are readily available at the gates, and if you need one, it’s easy to get one. It’s also a good idea to always request one when you book your Southwest flight, even if you could previously roll to your seat. If you happen to find out later that you can roll down the aisle, you can always decline the aisle chair. It’s also wise to be mentally prepared for the possibility that you will need an aisle chair on your future Southwest flights. Be aware of the possibility, so you won’t be disappointed. And don’t let these new secondary cockpit barriers ruin your trip!
Times are a changing and technology is making things possible today that we never thought could happen. But will people ever be able to board an airline in their own wheelchair and stay in it for the entire flight? Well things are moving forward, and that’s good, but it’s not going nearly as quickly as some people have hoped. So here’s an update on where we stand on flying in your own wheelchair.
The Regulations
When I last covered flying in your own wheelchair, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was set to review their regulations by 2025 (https://emerginghorizons.com/flying-in-your-wheelchair-when-will-it-really-happen/). This is really the most crucial first step, as if the FAA won’t allow it, then it’s a no-go from the start.
The majority of airplanes have a boarding door large enough to accommodate most personal wheelchairs.
Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 models would only require modest interior modifications to create a wheelchair securement area at the front of the cabin.
Many personal wheelchairs comply with the crash performance standards (WC19) established by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA).
The report recommended that the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA establish a research program in collaboration with RESNA to test and evaluate a selection of WC19-compliant wheelchairs in accordance with applicable FAA crashworthiness and safety performance criteria. It also recommended that the Access Board sponsor further studies to assess the demand for this service. There is no timeline for these recommendations.
So, in other words, more studies, and no definitive implementation date.
So, unfortunately we are quite a ways away from the reality of anyone flying in their own wheelchair.
Airbus Progress – A Concept Design
Even though the regulations at this point are up in the air (no pun intended) one company is moving forward with a workable design to accommodate personal wheelchairs aboard their commercial aircraft – Airbus.
Airbus has created a new concept design — The Airspace U Suite — which would not only accommodate passengers in their own wheelchairs, but also serve as a premium space for other passengers. This universal design concept will most likely appeal to airlines who don’t want to designate valuable space for wheelchair-users, only for it to sit empty when not in use. And not only will it not sit empty, but the airlines will be able to charge a premium for this spacious seating compartment.
The Airbus U Suite will not only accommodate a person in their own wheelchair, but it’s being billed as space for.
Travelers who want to lay down and take a nap
A family space
A business space for an in-flight meeting
In short, it’s universal design in the air.
The Airbus team has taken their first test flight with a wheelchair-user, and they hope to have the concept ready to produce by 2032. And their Airspace U Suite was on prominent display at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg last month.
So the design end of things is falling together nicely; but again, that’s only one piece of of an incredibly complex puzzle. Even if they are able to produce the design as expected, it won’t be available to wheelchair-users until the FAA – and worldwide regulatory agencies – approve it. And perhaps that’s why Airbus has included the universal design concept, so it can be used for other travelers in the meantime.
The Reality
The Airspace U Suite looks like a great design, but the question is, what will it cost passengers? Will it be a premium space like first class, or will it be an affordable space for wheelchair-users? That of course remains to be seen, but it does look like it will be a premium ($$) space, located in the front of the aircraft. Still there are plenty of folks with the means to pay for this space. And maybe this is just a first step to create more affordable accessible spaces on aircraft.
And accessibility – when and if it begins – will only be for larger aircraft at first. But that’s good because it’s those longer flights can be the most problematic for wheelchair-users. Even if you use your own wheelchair cushion on the flight, it’s still not the same, and skin issues can develop.
And finally, let’s remember that there’s nothing in the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) that requires seating in your own wheelchair on airplanes. That would take a lot of additional work and new regulations. Most likely if anything, the Access Board would allow but not require it. Just like the fact that airlines are allowed to, but not required to, provide on-board medical oxygen.
But still, it’s a start. As the folks at Airbus said, “So we started the process” to develop more accessible solutions and “we are in the middle of it.”
But I’m happy to see research and development moving forward for flying in your own wheelchair. And to put things in perspective, in my lifetime, prior to the ACAA, airlines made wheelchair-users sit on towels because they were afraid they would soil the seats. And they made a big deal about it. So, honestly, I’m really happy with any progress. But again, it will be a while, and unfortunately, probably not in my lifetime.
Yosemite has always been a popular destination, and in order to manage the crowds in previous years advance vehicle reservations were necessary. These were cheap and easy to get at www.recreation.gov. And once you got to the park at your appointed time, there wasn’t a wait, because the required vehicle reservations metered the traffic.
Fast forward to 2026, and vehicle reservations are no longer required (https://emerginghorizons.com/yosemite-entrance-reservations-not-required-in-2026-but-plan-ahead/). Why? Well it depends who ask, but there was a huge outcry from locals who opposed the reservations, and then apparently the park statistics showed they weren’t needed. In any case, no vehicle reservations are required in 2026, and that’s led to major traffic jams. Because traffic is no longer metered, there’s a huge back-up at the gates. Just last week there were reports of 90-minute waiting times at the gates – and it’s not even peak season.
Once you get in the park, finding parking is another issue, and of course finding accessible parking is always harder. To be honest, I’d really advise against a visit this year. And it’s not that I’m anti-Yosemite, but I’m just being pragmatic. I grew up in the mountains near Yosemite and for most of my life it was my “home national park”. And I love it. I just feel that with it’s over popularity, and non-metered traffic, it’s just really hard to enjoy this gem. Perhaps things will change next year.
That said, if you absolutely must visit Yosemite in 2026, here are a few tips for wheelchair-users, to help minimize your wait times, and more fully enjoy the park.
Spend the Night
Spending the night in the park is best way to maximize your sleep, and still get that much-needed early start in the morning. That said, lodging in Yosemite Valley can be extremely hard to get during peak season. Hard, but not impossible.
The cancellation period for Yosemite Valley hotels and lodges in seven days. That means that people can cancel their reservations with no penalty up to seven days before their visit. So, if you’re looking for Yosemite lodging in the peak months, and can do a spur-of -the-moment trip, then try searching for available properties early in the day, seven days ahead of time. It’s not guaranteed to work, but it’s the best shot at a vacancy. And yes, sometimes wheelchair-accessible rooms get cancellations too.
And my favorite wheelchair-accessible room in the park is room 421 at the Ahwahnee. It has a king bed, a roomy bathroom with a roll-in shower and an impressive view of Half Dome.
Yosemite Shuttle
Park and Walk (or Roll)
If you can’t spend the night inside the park, then you need to get an alpine start for a hassle-free wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit in 2026. It depends on where you spend the night, but try to get to the park no later than 6 AM. Yes, you read that correctly, 6 AM.
Years ago, you could have the park to yourself at that time; but with the crowded entrance stations today, it only cuts down on the crowds. Still, that’s a good thing. Your goal after getting to Yosemite Valley is to find an accessible parking spot in the Yosemite Village parking lot. And then leave your car there for the day.
The good news is, there are a lot of sites, viewpoints, concessions and attractions in Yosemite Valley; and they are all connected on the wheelchair-accessible Yosemite Valley shuttle (https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/images/valleyshuttle2.jpg). And there’s a shuttle stop near the parking area and in front of the Visitor Center.
The shuttles from 7 AM to 10 PM daily, and there’s usually about a 15-minute wait for a bus. There are two routes in Yosemite Valley – The Valley Shuttle, which covers the whole area, and the East Side Shuttle which stops at Yosemite Village, Curry Village and the campgrounds and trailheads on the east side of the valley
All of the shuttle buses are wheelchair-accessible, and they come equipped with wheelchair-lifts and tie-downs. They can accommodate wheelchairs up to 24 inches wide by 46 inches long, with a weight of up to 750 pounds.
Alternatively it you’d like to get a little exercise, rental handcycles are available at the Curry Village Bike Stand (209-372-8323) and the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand (209-372-1208). It’s best to reserve those in advance though, as supplies are limited and they go quickly.
YARTS bus in Yosemite Valley
Ride YARTS!
Another way to to get the most our of your wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit is to take public transportation to the park – more specifically YARTS (https://www.yarts.com/). Based in nearby Merced, YARTS stands for Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, and it has four routes that lead to the park. So you can overnight in a nearby community, ride YARTS to the park, and not worry about any delays at the entrance (public transport takes an express lane) or finding an accessible parking space.
The routes run from Merced, Fresno, Sonora, and Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Valley, and stop at mountain communities along the way. So you could overnight in a variety of places including, Mariposa, Groveland, El Portal, Oakhurst and June Lake. All YARTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts; however you either need to contact them 48 hours in advance, or indicate on your online reservation that you require wheelchair seating. And attendants traveling with a wheelchair-user get a 50 percent discount. So not only is riding YARTS accessible it’s also affordable.
Although the general public has to hike in to Mirror Lake, if you have an accessible parking placard or license plate, you can drive along the this road. Although you won’t have the lake to yourself, the hike in – even though it’s easy – eliminates a lot of folks. Even better – go early in the day to dodge the bulk of the visitors.
The road up to mirror lake is about a mile long, and motorists will be sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists. You must travel with your hazard light on, and the speed limit is 15 mph along this road. And of course you need to watch out for pedestrians – especially kids – along the way.
About half way up, the roads gets steeper, and bicycles are prohibited beyond this point. Once you get to the top there’s accessible parking near the lake. There are some accessible vault toilets nearby and some picnic tables on level ground that may be doable for wheelchair-users. That said, Mirror Lake is seasonal and it usually dries up by late summer; however the granite views are spectacular from there. It’s well worth the drive.
Although they have some great wheelchair-accessible cabins at Tenaya Lodge, you don’t have to be a lodge guest in order to book one of their tours. The accessible tour bus has a lift and tie downs, so you can stay in your own wheelchair or transfer to a seat.
The day-long accessible tours feature stops at all the popular attractions, a picnic lunch, and time to explore Yosemite Valley on your own on the free wheelchair-accessible shuttle. Plus you don’t have to worry about parking, waiting in the entrance line or driving. Book early though, as this popular tour sells out quickly.
Walk-through Tree at Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park
Visit Mariposa Grove
Last but certainly not least, one of the best ways to enjoy a quieter slice of Yosemite is to get out of the valley and visit Mariposa Grove (https://emerginghorizons.com/escape-to-the-wheelchair-accessible-mariposa-grove/). You can access the grove on the Yosemite Shuttle Bus, but if you have a accessible parking placard, you can drive along the road that is reserved for shuttles, hiker and cyclists.
With an accessible parking placard, you can drive to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Center and check out the accessible Big Trees Loop. From there you can drive to the Grizzly Giant Trailhead and take part of the trail to the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. Not only are these massive trees, a must-see on any Yosemite itinerary, but you can dodge some of the crowds by driving there.
And as with any Yosemite itinerary, get an alpine start to beat some of the crowds. This is especially important in 2026, when there are no vehicle restrictions at the entrance stations. So plan ahead for a trouble-free wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit this year.
Established long before the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) covers accessible air travel on all US airlines, as well as flights on all airlines to and from the US. But does it cover all types of airplanes, including those small planes which board from stairs on the tarmac? The short answer is no, and that issue was recently brought to light when actress Marissa Bode was recently denied boarding on a Southern Airways (https://www.iflysouthern.com/) commuter flight.
What the ACAA Says
According to the ACAA, lift or ramped boarding must be provided on all covered aircraft. And while most commercial aircraft are covered under the law, there are some exclusions. In fact § 382.97 of the ACAA specifically lists those exclusions. They include:
Float Planes
Aircraft with fewer than 19 seats
Fairchild Metro
Jetstream 31 and 32
Beech 1900 (C and D models)
Embraer EMB-120
It also excludes any other aircraft model determined by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to be unsuitable for boarding and deplaning assistance by lift, ramp, or other suitable device. And the DOT makes that determination if no existing boarding and deplaning assistance device on the market will accommodate the aircraft without a significant risk of serious damage to the aircraft or injury to passengers or employees; or if there are internal barriers that would prevent passengers in an aisle chair from reaching a non-exit row seat.
Southern Airlines is a small commuter airlines which flies the Cessna Grand Caravan 208, which typically seats between 8 and 14 passengers and one pilot. Standard commuter configurations generally hold 10 to 12 passengers, but tighter seat configurations can accommodate up to 14 passengers. In short, it’s less than the 19 passenger requirement under the ACAA, so yes this aircraft is exempt from the ACAA, and not required to carry wheelchair passengers.
What Happened to Marissa Bode?
According to news accounts Marissa Bode discovered this when she was booked on a Southern Airlines flight to attend a speaking engagement in Pennsylvania. Although Bode had some problems locating her virtual ticket at the airport, the real problem arose when she got to the gate and was questioned about her physical abilities. When she replied that she couldn’t stand up and walk, the staff informed he that she couldn’t fly because she needed to climb up a flight of stairs to board the small plane.
In the end, the actress drove three hours to her speaking engagement.
So is Southern Airlines at fault for this denied boarding? Although they followed the letter of the law as to whether or not wheelchairs are allowed on this small commuter plane, there is an issue about the information that was provided to Bode’s “team”.
According to Bode, her people spoke to the airline in advance of the flight and the customer service personnel “fully assured” her manager that they would be able to accommodate Bode and her wheelchair. That’s where the airline dropped the ball, because under the ACAA airlines are also required to provide accurate information to passengers regarding the carriage and stowage of all assistive devices. And according to the actress’ accounts, Southern Airlines failed in that respect. If the airline would have communicated accurate information, the Southern Airlines flight would not have been booked, and Bode would never have been denied boarding.
So yes, Southern Airlines did drop the ball, but not for not carrying wheelchairs on their commuter aircraft. They violated the ACAA for not communicating the correct information to a potential passenger. So no, you can’t fly this airline in a wheelchair, but they do need to improve their employee training and customer service.
Peer-to-peer vehicle rentals are an up-and-coming concept. Some call it car sharing, while others refer to it as the Airbnb of car rentals. The big question is, will it work for wheelchair-users who need adapted vehicles?
The premise is pretty simple. A company contracts with individual owners to rent out their vehicles, offers them to the public, and then gives the owners the lion’s share of the profits. The customers get a reliable rental at a bargain price, and the owners get some cash in their pockets. It’s a win-win for everyone. But is it a realistic option for wheelchair-users?
Turo
Let’s start by looking at one of the leading providers of peer-to-peer vehicle rentals in the US – Turo (https://turo.com). I’ve never used them, but a friend made some extra money by renting her adapted van through them. The rental vehicle requirements are pretty simple.
All Turo Vehicles must:
Be less than 12 years old
Have less than 130,000 miles
Be fully insured
Owners get about 70% of the rental rates, which are about a third of the going rates for accessible vehicles in the US. And of course location is king. My friend lived near the Miami airport, so she did pretty well.
But what about renting an adapted van? Well they do have a filter to find adapted vehicles, but you have to do a city search first. The filter is to the far left, under “all filters”. If you search a major city, you will probably find at least one adapted vehicle, but they are not as available as standard vehicles in smaller cities and towns.
The good news is, there are lots of photos of the adapted vehicles, so you will have a good idea of what features they have. In short, it’s a good economical alternative for major airports in the US. But once you get out of the big cities, the availability of adapted vehicles drops to almost zero. And hey, if you have an adapted vehicle that you don’t use every day, you might consider offering it to Turo as a rental.
The French Approach
The French have an entirely different approach to adapted vehicles as far as peer-to-peer vehicle rentals are concerned. They have a whole company that is entirely dedicated to peer-to-peer adaptive vehicle rentals. It’s called Wheeliz (https://www.wheeliz.com/), and it’s headquartered in Paris. And according to their website they are the first peer-to-peer car rental program for wheelchair-users.
Their concept is pretty simple, and much like Turo. People register their cars on the Wheeliz website, where users search for rentals. When a match is made, the user picks up the vehicle at an appointed place and payment is made through the Wheeliz website. The owner is later paid a percentage of the rental rate.
You can choose from a ramped van or a vehicle with adaptive driving features. And there are plenty of photos, and lots of information about each vehicle, so you really know what you are renting.
The great thing about Wheeliz is that it really seems to be catching on. Of course there’s no shortage of rentals in Paris, but I searched in several rural locations, and many small cities, and still found a good selection of vehicles. And they were all at bargain prices – about 65 Euros for an adapted van.
So hopefully the Wheeliz model will catch on over in the states, but if you’re traveling to France I would most definitely check them out. Not only is it a more economical alternative, but it also benefits someone with a disability. It’s a great idea!
Track chairs are great for getting out and enjoying Mother Nature and exploring trails that may not be accessible in standard wheelchairs. They are made by a variety of manufacturers, but unlike standard wheelchairs, these heavy duty power chairs have tank tracks rather than wheels. In sort, they are an excellent solution for inaccessible trails.
Disabled hunters can also appreciate the strengths of a track chair, especially while navigating wet and uneven terrain. Unfortunately these track chairs come with a high price tag, and depending on the options they can easily cost in upwards of $20,000. And although that price may put these unique adaptive devices out of the reach of many folks, a Vermont-based LLC now has a program that offers track chair grants to disabled game bird hunters.
Track2wing Track Chair Grants
Track2wing (https://www.track2wing.com/) was founded in 2020 by Terry Wilson and Nancy Anisfield. It’s a self-funded corporation that’s run by a volunteer board. Their mission is to provide a way for disabled game bird hunters to participate in hunting activities with sporting dogs. To that end they offer track chair grants for disabled game bird hunters. And as of 2026, Track2Wing has provided 61 disabled hunters with a track chair.
Applying for a track chair grant is pretty easy. The application period runs from January 1 to March 31. Applicants are asked to fill out a simple form detailing their physical needs as well as their game bird hunting and sporting dog experience. Upon receipt of the application, more information – such as medical documentation or a phone interview – may be requested. The applications are reviewed by the advisory committee, and applicants are notified of their status by the end of April.
Grant recipients are referred to a local Trackchair (https://thetrackchair.com/) dealer to complete the ordering process. Track2wing pays for the full cost of the track chair and even provides funds for accessories and a trailer.
It’s a great program, so get your application in now if you’re interested. Applications can be requested from Track2wing at (802) 482-2561 or track2wing@gmavt.net.
If you’re planning to visit some Washington State Parks in 2026, and you want to save a few bucks, then plan your visit for one of the fee-free days. Normally a Discover Pass is required in order to enter Washington State Parks, but on these 2026 dates you don’t need a pass and you don’t need to pay an entry fee.
Thursday, Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day and First Day Hikes
Monday, Jan. 19 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, March 9 – Billy Frank Jr.’s Birthday
Thursday, March 19 – State Parks 113th Birthday
Wednesday, April 22 – Earth Day
Saturday – Sunday, June 6-7 – Free Fishing Weekend
Friday, June 19 – Juneteenth
Sunday, Aug. 9 – Smokey Bear’s Birthday
Saturday, Sept. 26 – National Public Lands Day
Saturday, Oct. 10 – World Mental Health Day
Wednesday, Nov. 11 – Veterans Day
Washington has a lot to offer state-park wise, and here are some of our favorites. And we’ve really been impressed with their wheelchair access too.
If you’d like to visit a Washington State Park at other times during the year, and you happened to have a disability, then you can get a free Washington State Disability Pass. This pass can be used in place of a Discover Pass. Pass holders get the following benefits at Washington state lands.
Free parking and entrance to all state parks (no Discover Pass needed)
The form is pretty simple to fill out, but you do need to submit a few things with it.
Proof of Residency
This can be your drivers license or a Washington state ID card, but it must list your Washington address. You must be a Washington resident for at least three consecutive months in order to apply.
Proof of Disability
A copy of an accessible parking placard (not expired) is acceptable for proof of disability. If you don’t have that, then an eligibility letter for state or federal disability benefits will suffice.
There’s no charge to apply for the pass, and it’s good for either one or five years. So get yours today, and start exploring the accessible Washington national parks.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced that travelers who do not present a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification at the airport, will need to pay $45 to use TSA Confirm ID in order to board the aircraft. The REAL ID law was signed more than 20 years ago, and although it has technically been enforced since May 7, 2025, passengers who previously lacked REAL IDs were given warnings and subjected to enhanced screenings. Beginning February 1, 2026, those travelers will now be required to pay a fee for TSA Confirm ID in order to board the aircraft. Passengers who go this route can also expect delays.
What is TSA Confirm ID?
TSA Confirm ID is a fee-based option to confirm the identity of travelers who lack a REAL ID or other acceptable identification. It costs $45 and takes approximately 30 minutes. It can be completed at the airport, but according to the TSA, it will also be available at www.tsa.gov after the initial launch. That way travelers who lack a REAL ID can get a TSA Confirm ID before they get to the airport, and avoid unwanted delays.
According to the TSA about 94% of airline passengers already have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification. Says TSA representative Adam Stahl, “The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are. Beginning February 1, travelers who do not present an acceptable form of ID at our security checkpoints and still want to fly can pay a $45 fee and undergo the TSA Confirm.ID process. This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.”
How Do You Get a REAL ID?
Of course, it’s easier – and cheaper in the long run – to get a REAL ID. The process is pretty simple. Just go to your state DMV or motor vehicle licensing website to find out the specific documentation that you need.
Generally, you must provide documentation showing:
Full Legal Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Two Proofs of Address
Some states have additional requirements, and some agencies require an appointment to get a REAL ID.
After you’ve filled out the required paperwork, and submitted the appropriate fees, your photo will be taken, and in most cases you’ll have your REAL ID in a few weeks. It’s a pretty simple process.
To be honest, I have had REAL ID in three states, and it’s pretty easy in most cases. My first REAL ID was in California shortly after the program was launched. Suffice it to say that it needed some improvement, and it took me the better part of the afternoon to complete the process, This was mainly because a lot of employees were unfamiliar with this new program. Gladly that’s not the case today.
My second experience was in ID, and that went quickly, as did my final one in WA. Sadly, a REAL ID in one state does not qualify as documentation for a REAL ID in another state. You have to produce all the original documentation again, which makes no sense to me, as it is a nation-wide program. In any case, getting a REAL ID today is a pretty easy process.
What Other Forms of ID are Acceptable?
Although REAL IDs are one form of acceptable identification, there are many other options that the TSA accepts. Listed below are the acceptable forms of ID in order to pass the TSA checkpoint to board the aircraft.
State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
All travelers without an acceptable ID, including those who present a non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or ID, will be referred to the optional TSA Confirm.ID process for identity verification upon TSA check-in and prior to entering the security line.
For more information about REAL ID or the security screening process, visit TSA.gov/real-id.
So be prepared to show your REAL ID on Feb 1, or else be subjected to additional screening and fees. Plan ahead!
Late last week the Department of Justice announced that they are actively investigating United Parks and Resorts for allegedly violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). United Parks & Resorts owns and licenses SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Aquatica Orlando. And the alleged violation? Apparently the parks in question have banned rollator walkers in their parks, and instead forced patrons to use mobility aids that are inappropriate for their individual disabilities.
Why Are Rollators Banned at Florida Theme Parks?
So, why in the world would any facility ban rollator walkers? Well according to the Busch Gardens website, there are “safety concerns”. Apparently the parks have “crowded pathways, varying terrain and potential tripping hazards”. OK, but wouldn’t these conditions be exacerbated if someone who uses a rollator had it taken away from them at the entrance?. I’m thinking the tripping hazards would increase if you were navigating unfamiliar terrain without your rollator.
Apparently in some cases there is also the offer of an alternative assistive device to folks who have been stripped of their rollators. I’m assuming this means a wheelchair of some sort. Now let’s put this into perspective. You are taking away an assistive device that someone is familiar with, and forcing them to use something new in unfamiliar terrain. This not only sounds dangerous, but it’s also an infringement of civil rights. Perhaps someone missed that day in civics class.
According to one rollator-user, “I have one of those walkers. I have been told that if you get tired and sit down to get pushed, the risk is high for flipping over on uneven walkways.” This is true. It’s dangerous to push someone in a rollator, which is why it’s noted as a prohibited and dangerous practice on the company website. As the website notes, “Using a rollator walker as a tool for pushing the elderly is a risky practice. Rollator walkers are not designed to carry and move seated people. Overloading them may cause structural damage, brake failure, and other safety hazards.”
I think it’s reasonable to assume that people will use their assistive devices in a safe way, and refrain from dangerous practices. But apparently United Parks & Resorts doesn’t see things that way.
Help the DOJ
The DOJ is actively investigating this issue, so if you have been denied the use of your rollator at one of these parks, the DOJ wants to hear from you. This whole investigation started because people complained to the DOJ about being denied the use of their personal assistive devices at these theme parks. So if you think that taking a few minutes to fill out a complaint is useless, then think again.
Not only should you complain any time you are denied your civil rights, you most certainly should get in touch with the DOJ immediately if you have encountered the rollator issue. It’s easy to file a complaint. Just go to https://www.civilrights.justice.gov/report/ and fill out the form. You can also give the DOJ a call on their toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301.
And although this issue is about rollators, it’s important to remember that the DOJ is complaint-driven. So if you run into any infringement of your civil rights under the ADA, be sure and file a complaint. This is especially true when a US hotel falls short in the ADA access department. Here’s a short overview of why and how you should file an ADA complaint. https://emerginghorizons.com/why-you-should-file-an-ada-complaint/
Looking back on my career, I think that the first national park I covered for accessibility was Yosemite National Park. Back then there weren’t any accessible trails, and I remember scrambling up the slippery path to the base of Yosemite Falls, and just wondering, “Why can’t this trail be made to be wheelchair-accessible?”
Many years later access improvements were made to that trail, and now it is truly wheelchair-accessible. I remember talking to Mark Wellman at the “grand opening ceremony, and saying that I really wished more national parks would follow suit with improved access. He just nodded in agreement,
And although it’s taken some time, and a lot of work by advocates, I’m thrilled to see the access improvements at more national lands across the country. In fact, it’s kind of fun to look back and see how much access really has improved whenever I release a new edition of a national park access guide. So as the second edition of Barrier-Free Travel; Utah National Park for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers, (https://emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-utah-national-parks-for-wheelchair-user-and-slow-walkers/) hits the streets, I’d like to reflect on the improved access in the Utah national parks.
Truly Accessible Trails
At the top of my list for improved wheelchair access in Utah national parks is the creation of more truly accessible trails. Trails that offer folks more than just a short walk near the visitor center – longer accessible trails so wheelchair-users can truly explore the parks.
One of my favorite Utah accessible trails is the Bryce Canyon Shared Use Path. This five-mile trail is paved, and it runs from Inspiration Point all the way down to the shuttle staging area at Ruby’s. The great thing about this trail – besides the access – is that you can do as little or as much of it as you like, as it passes several shuttle bus stops along the way. If you get tired, then just hop on the wheelchair-accessible shuttle.
And then there’s the Pa’rus Trail over in Zion National Park. It’s 1.8 miles long and it runs from the Visitor Center up to Canyon Junction. You can’t beat the scenery along this paved trail, as it crosses the Virgin River several times and offers some impressive red rock views. And if you just want to take the trail one-way, it also connects with the park shuttle bus. Scenic, accessible and convenient – what could be better?
Upkeep is Equally Important
Although developing accessible trails is essential, trail upkeep, repair and improvements are also important factors in the national parks accessibility equation. And in that respect, Utah gets great marks.
For example, there was once a slight access issue over at the Petroglyph Boardwalk in Capitol Reef National Park. The boardwalk itself is nicely accessible, and it offers slow walkers and wheelchair-users a close look at the ancient petroglyphs. Unfortunately time and weather had deteriorated the curb-cut that allowed wheelchair-users access to the boardwalk. Well, I’m happy to report that the curb-cut was repaired and this site is once again accessible to everyone.
And over in Zion there was an issue with one of the access points to the Pa’rus Trail. Formerly there was a short section of a steep grade near the Canyon Junction trailhead. But again, that’s all been repaired to make it accessible to everyone.
And then there’s the annual weather damage. This area of the country gets some pretty severe weather, including snow, heavy rains and sometimes even floods. And of course that can take a toll on the trails. That said, I’m happy to report that the weather damage in the Utah National Parks is usually repaired as soon as possible. And that’s a huge thing.
The Little Things
Finally, there are the little improvements that help with the wheelchair access in Utah national parks. First and foremost is the trail signage. I noticed new and more detailed signs at the trailheads – not just for the accessible trails, but all the trails.
And the interesting thing about the signs is the amount of information that they have. They include important details about the length, surface, width, cross slope and grade of the trails. They also list any possible obstructions. I think this is great for some slow walkers who don’t need a totally accessible trail, but would like one with a gentle grade. These signs really paint an accurate picture of the trail conditions.
And then there are the picnic tables. On my last visit to the parks, there was a problem with folks moving the accessible picnic tables to inaccessible areas. This was done not to be vindictive, but merely because it was shadier in the inaccessible areas. I talked to many rangers about this issue, and the tried different solutions. Unfortunately visitors even managed to cut the chains on secured accessible tables in order to move them to shady spots. Sad, but true.
Fast forward to this year, when now more and more picnic tables are covered, so there’s no need to relocate them. I realize this wasn’t done because of access issues, but the result benefits wheelchair-users who need an accessible picnic table. And that’s a very positive change.
All in all, there’s a sustained move to improve access in our national parks, And I look for that that trend to continue over the years. So make plans to go out and enjoy our national parks – and take one of my access guides along with you!
Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
