There are two main types of accessible seating on planes, trains, buses, and other modes of public transportation – wheelchair accessible seats and semi-ambulatory seats. Understanding the difference between these two types of seating is important for travelers with disabilities or mobility limitations who need to request accessible accommodations when booking travel.
Wheelchair Accessible Seats
Wheelchair accessible seats are designed for passengers who will remain in their wheelchair for the duration of their trip. These seats provide additional floor space to accommodate a standard wheelchair, usually with a design that allows the wheelchair to roll right up to the seat and lock into place.
On airplanes, wheelchair accessible seats are typically located in the bulkhead row or the row directly behind the bulkhead. The seats in front are removed to create the floor space needed for the wheelchair. Passengers who use wheelchair accessible seating on planes must be able to transfer from their wheelchair to the aircraft seat.
On trains, wheelchair accessible seating is located in the designated wheelchair car. The spaces allow wheelchairs to roll right in and lock into place with various securement systems. Buses also have spaces at the front with wheelchair lockdowns and restraints.
Wheelchair accessible spaces provide the most room for mobility devices. Passengers who use large power chairs or scooters that do not easily fold will need a wheelchair accessible space. It allows the passenger to remain in their mobility device for the trip.
Semi-Ambulatory Seats
Semi-ambulatory seats are designed for passengers who have mobility limitations but do not require the use of a wheelchair. These seats provide additional legroom and space to accommodate disabilities, but do not allow a wheelchair to pull up entirely.
On planes, semi-ambulatory seats are bulkhead seats or seats in the emergency exit row. These rows provide extra legroom that is helpful for passengers who need to stretch their legs out or use mobility aids like canes, walkers, crutches, or leg braces.
Trains have semi-ambulatory seats located in coach cars, providing more space with flip-up armrests, leg rests, and foot rests. Buses have seats at the front that have extra legroom and space compared to standard seats.
Passengers may prefer semi-ambulatory seats if they can walk short distances but cannot sit in a standard airplane, train, or bus seat for extended periods. The extra space provides more comfortable options for changing positions, stretching, and using mobility aids.
Who Needs Wheelchair Accessible vs. Semi-Ambulatory Seats?
When requesting accessible seating, the type of seat needed will depend on the passenger’s specific mobility requirements:
- Wheelchair accessible seats are intended for passengers who need to remain in their wheelchair or scooter for the entire trip. They allow mobility devices to roll right up to the seat area.
- Semi-ambulatory seats are designed for passengers who do not necessarily stay in their mobility device, but need extra legroom and space to stretch out or use assistance walking.
Many factors determine the type of accessible seating that will work best for each passenger’s needs:
- Ability to transfer – Can the passenger move from their wheelchair to a regular seat if needed? Wheelchair accessible spaces require this ability.
- Mobility device – The size and type of wheelchair, scooter, or other equipment being used. Large devices may only fit in wheelchair accessible spaces.
- Assistance walking – Whether the passenger requires mobility aids like canes or walkers that need extra space to maneuver.
- Leg room needs – Semi-ambulatory seats work better for those who need to stretch their legs out frequently or sit in specific positions.
- Journey duration – Longer trips may require wheelchair accessible seating if the passenger cannot walk far or sit for extended periods.
Travelers should consider all of these factors when deciding between wheelchair accessible seating versus semi-ambulatory seating for a more comfortable trip.
Booking Accessible Seats on Flights
Booking accessible seats on flights requires contacting the airline and requesting the appropriate wheelchair or semi-ambulatory seating section:
- Wheelchair accessible seats – These are limited in number, so early booking is recommended. You will need to provide the dimensions of your wheelchair or device.
- Semi-ambulatory seats – These include exit row seats or bulkhead seats with extra legroom. Advance booking helps secure these seats.
When booking, be ready to describe your mobility needs and why an accessible seat is necessary. Providing medical documentation may be required by some airlines.
Accessible seats can generally be reserved online, by phone, or through a travel agent. You will select the specific accessible seat type required rather than a standard seat assignment.
Fees, restrictions, and policies for accessible seating vary between different airlines. Confirm the airline’s requirements when booking.
Booking Accessible Seats on Trains
Booking accessible rail car seats with Amtrak requires the following steps:
- Request an Accessible Bedroom, Roomette, or Coach seat when making your reservation. These have more space and amenities.
- Describe your mobility requirements to ensure the appropriate seating accommodation.
- Note if you will be traveling with a personal care attendant and if they need a seat as well.
- Railcars with accessible seating are limited, so book early. Amtrak prioritizes accessible space for passengers who need it.
Policies vary for commuter or regional trains. Check with the local rail provider on how to request accessible seats when booking.
Booking Accessible Seats on Buses
Booking an accessible seat on a bus depends on the type of bus and provider:
- Local public buses allow boarding with wheelchairs and mobility devices in the designated area. You typically do not book seats in advance.
- Intercity buses like Greyhound require contacting customer service to book wheelchair accessible seats or semi-ambulatory seats. Policies vary between bus companies.
- Paratransit services require contacting the local agency in advance to schedule accessible van transportation for passengers unable to use regular public transit.
Always confirm the bus company’s specific boarding and seating policies when booking an accessible seat as a passenger with reduced mobility.
Air Travel Seating Comparison
This chart summarizes some key differences between wheelchair accessible and semi-ambulatory seating on airplanes:
Seat Type | Wheelchair Accessible | Semi-Ambulatory |
---|---|---|
Location | Bulkhead row or behind bulkhead | Bulkhead row or emergency exit row |
Allows wheelchair | Yes | No |
Extra legroom | Some extra space | Substantial extra space |
Restraint systems | Wheelchair lockdowns and restraints | None |
Ideal for | Passengers staying in wheelchair or large mobility device | Passengers needing extra stretch-out room and mobility assistance |
Train Travel Seating Comparison
Key differences between wheelchair accessible and semi-ambulatory seating on passenger trains:
Seat Type | Wheelchair Accessible | Semi-Ambulatory |
---|---|---|
Location | Accessible/wheelchair car | Coach car |
Allows wheelchair | Yes | No |
Extra amenities | Lockdowns, restraints, large restroom | Flip-up armrests, leg rests, foot rests |
Boarding | Wheelchair lift | Steps, stairs, or ramp |
Ideal for | Passenger staying in larger wheelchair or scooter | Passenger needing extra space for mobility aids |
Bus Travel Seating Comparison
Comparison of wheelchair accessible vs. semi-ambulatory bus seating:
Seat Type | Wheelchair Accessible | Semi-Ambulatory |
---|---|---|
Location | Front/wheelchair securement area | Front rows |
Allows wheelchair | Yes | No |
Extra amenities | Wheelchair lockdowns and restraints | Priority boarding, extra legroom |
Boarding | Wheelchair lift or ramp | Front door, stairs |
Ideal for | Passenger secured in wheelchair | Passenger needing space for stretching or mobility aids |
Key Differences
In summary, the key differences between wheelchair accessible and semi-ambulatory seating include:
- Wheelchair access – Wheelchair spaces allow wheelchairs and scooters to roll in and be secured. Semi-ambulatory seats do not accommodate wheeled mobility devices.
- Seat design – Wheelchair seats have lockdowns and restraints. Semi-ambulatory seats simply have extra legroom and space.
- Priority booking – Wheelchair accessible seats are strictly limited in number compared to semi-ambulatory. Book them as early as possible.
- Location – Wheelchair seats are in specific sections of the train, plane, or bus. Semi-ambulatory seats can be booked in exit rows or other areas with more space.
- Passenger abilities – Wheelchair seats work for those staying seated in mobility devices. Semi-amb seats allow stretching for those who can walk small distances.
Travel Planning Tips
To arrange the best accessible seating for your needs when booking trains, planes, and buses:
- Determine if you need to stay in your wheelchair or can transfer to standard seating.
- Understand your specific mobility limitations and aids you use.
- Research the transportation provider’s accessible seating policies and availability.
- Book early to secure limited wheelchair accessible spaces.
- Confirm your accommodation needs when booking with a representative.
- Provide any medical paperwork that may be required.
- Ask questions to ensure you get the right seating arrangements.
Conclusion
Wheelchair accessible and semi-ambulatory seats provide vital accommodations for passengers with disabilities and mobility issues. Wheelchair seats allow passengers to travel in their wheelchair or scooter. Semi-ambulatory seats offer additional legroom for stretching and using mobility aids. Carefully considering your specific needs and limitations will help determine if a wheelchair accessible or semi-ambulatory seat results in a more comfortable trip.