Traveling with a Prosthesis: Know Your Rights

Your Rights While Traveling

Many people travel from Kentucky to North Carolina to enjoy the sun and sand on the coast, for example. Or maybe you’re going to visit The Big Apple to take in a show. Unless you’re up for a road trip, you’ll need to fly, which means getting through security at the airport. Airport security is designed to protect all passengers, so no person is exempt from screening. You can expect the following when passing through security at the airport:

•  A TSA Disability Notification Card is available for all passengers who may feel uncomfortable discussing their prosthesis in front of others.
• Security officers must see and touch your prosthesis or orthosis as part of the standard screening process.
• You will not be asked, nor required, to remove your prosthesis during your screening.
• You can request a private screening at any point during the process.
• A friend or family member may accompany you to the private screening to assist after they have been through the security process.
• You may be subject to an explosive trace sampling procedure that often requires lifting a pant leg or skirt to your knee. You will never be asked to remove clothing, even if you request a private screening.

Other Helpful Information

The TSA wants to make all travelers feel welcome, safe, and comfortable. TSA PreCheck® is a program that allows for faster security screening by waiving the need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, and lightweight jackets. You can also call the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight to address any questions or concerns. Planning and checking out our travel tips for amputees can also make your trip less stressful.

Permitted Items

You can legally bring any prescription or necessary over-the-counter medication on the flight. These items must be declared and screened separately from the rest of your belongings. You can also bring much assistive or adaptive equipment, although the items must undergo screening. This is not an exhaustive list, but it covers some of the most common equipment:

• Scooters
• Wheelchairs
• Canes
• Crutches
• Walkers
• Tools for prosthetic limbs
• Orthopedic shoes

Contact Us

Are you ready to fly? Contact us for an appointment if you believe your orthosis or prosthesis needs attention before your trip. Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics takes pride in offering our patients more than just clinical support. We’re here to help connect you with other resources in the community, like support groups.

We provide services at two convenient locations in Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN. We are happy to serve Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.