Blind or Low Vision
Blind or low vision
Traveling the world should be accessible to everyone. But, we also know that depending on the kind of vision loss you have, you may have different needs. So, we’ve gathered tips and advice to guide you through flying if you’re blind or low vision.
Planning your trip
When planning your trip there’s some steps you can take to make sure you have a good flying experience.
Self-disclose
We recommend you let us know that you or someone you’re traveling with is blind or low vision before you get to the airport. While this is completely voluntary, it helps us prepare for any needs you may have throughout your journey. There are 3 ways you can give us this info:
During booking when you give us all travelers’ names and information
After booking in My trips where you edit traveler information
During check-in when you’re confirming traveler information
Please note, we don’t share your personal medical information with anyone.
Traveler pro tip
If you’re checking a bag, you can put a small tracking device inside to help you find it at the baggage carousel. We recommend using one that connects to an app, like Tile or Apple AirTag, that can beep when turned on.
Traveler pro tip
If you’re checking a bag, you can put a small tracking device inside to help you find it at the baggage carousel. We recommend using one that connects to an app, like Tile or Apple AirTag, that can beep when turned on.
At the airport
We know everyone’s needs are unique. That’s why we ask that you let us know what yours are whenever you interact with an airport employee. That includes ticket counter agents, gate agents and other United agents you may need to speak to.
Airport kiosks
While not all our kiosks are accessible, many are. Accessible kiosks are labeled in Braille and include a headphone jack so you can plug in and listen to screen reader instructions.
Accessibility assistance
Get specialized help at the airport by visiting our accessibility assistance desks. Where these desks are located varies by airport, so we suggest using the airport map feature in the United app to find the nearest one.
The primary service we offer at the airport if you’re blind or low vision is an escort. You can request someone walk with you to your gate if you like. Please keep in mind this person will have a wheelchair with them, but you don’t have to use it.
Going through security
Everyone has to go through a security screening before going to their gate. The TSA does have a special screening program for travelers with visual impairments.
Here are the 3 key things to know:
You can ask TSA to explain what you need to do in detail. That includes what needs to be x-rayed and how to move through the metal detector or full body scanner.
A TSA agent can guide you through the metal detector or you can use a cane if you have one. The cane may set the metal detector off, so you’ll need to go through additional screening.
If you’re traveling with a service animal, they’ll also need to be screened by TSA. They can either go through the metal detector or have a pat down. You can only touch your animal’s leash during this time.
For more information on traveling with service animals, including any forms you may need and relief areas at the airport, visit the service animals page.
Getting info at the gate
We use visual displays at the gate for info on boarding, travel disruptions, upgrades and more. Gate agents will make these same announcements over the speaker system to make sure all travelers are getting the information they need. You can also opt to receive these same announcements through text messages and push notifications on our app if that’s easier.
All customers with disabilities are invited to board during pre-boarding. Or, you can board with the group listed on your boarding pass. Learn more about the boarding process.
Traveler pro tip
Did you know? If you have some vision, you can use the camera on your phone to zoom in on signs at the airport to more easily find your gate, baggage claim, the bathroom and more.
Traveler pro tip
Did you know? If you have some vision, you can use the camera on your phone to zoom in on signs at the airport to more easily find your gate, baggage claim, the bathroom and more.
On the plane
If you’ve let us know you’re blind or low vision, we’ll confirm 3 things once you’re on the plane:
- If you’d like a customized safety briefing
- How far you are from the bathroom and exits
- If there’s any additional help you’ll need during your flight
We’ll also help orient you, so you know how far you are from the exit and the bathroom.
How we can help
During your flight there are a few things we can and can’t help you with. We can help you with:
We can help you with:
Getting to and from your seat
Accessing your carry-on bags
Opening food packages and drinks
We will not assist you in the bathroom, with medication or feed you.
Inflight entertainment
We have a few accessibility features for our inflight entertainment both on the app and on seatback screens.
Seatback screens
Use text-to-speech to more easily navigate your entertainment options. You can also turn on magnification, high-contrast text and more.
In the app
Our app’s accessibility features, including color contrast, magnification, and screen reader compatibility, apply to inflight entertainment as well. Some movies and shows even have audio descriptions.
Braille labels
We’re adding Braille labels to our new and old planes over the next few years. Today you can find Braille labels in the bathroom. Soon you’ll also find them on individual rows and seats as well.