Passengers with Reduced Mobility and/or Special Needs
Information and user experience on services for passengers requiring assistance
Traveling can be challenging, especially for those with reduced mobility or special needs. At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, various services and facilities have been implemented to ensure that all travelers can enjoy a smooth and accessible experience. This content will provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of these services, from wheelchair assistance to service animal relief areas.
Based on user reviews and real feedback, we have compiled and enriched this content to offer you a comprehensive and practical view of what you can expect when traveling to or from ATL.
The reviews and opinions mentioned throughout this guide have been gathered from various sources, including Google Reviews, Yelp, and TripAdvisor, among others, ensuring an authentic view of passenger experiences.
Wheelchair Assistance
Wheelchair assistance is provided by airline representatives. To book this service, contact the airline directly. Passengers with limited English proficiency should contact their airline for language assistance.
User Reviews: Many travelers praise the efficient and helpful assistance provided by airline staff, particularly in handling wheelchair requests. However, some passengers mention that the process can be delayed during peak travel times, recommending booking assistance in advance to ensure timely service. One user noted that the staff assisting them were "very good," but also mentioned the lack of moving walkways in Concourse E, which could pose a challenge for individuals with limited mobility.
TSA Cares Assistance
TSA Cares is a helpline for travelers and their companions. Travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances can contact the toll-free number +1 855 787 2227, 72 hours before travel, if they have questions about screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint.
The helpline hours are Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 11:00 pm, and weekends from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. Hearing-impaired passengers can use a relay service (federal relay 711) or send an email to [email protected].
We recommend that travelers review the TSA links below at least 72 hours prior to travel:
User Reviews: Passengers who have used TSA Cares report a generally positive experience, finding the service helpful in reducing stress during the security screening process. However, some users suggest that wider awareness of TSA Cares would benefit more travelers with special needs.
Passengers with Autism
Delta Air Lines, in partnership with Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and the autism advocacy group The Arc, opened a multi-sensory lounge to provide a supportive and calming environment for customers with autism.
The room, located in a quiet space on the boarding level of Concourse F, contains a small ball pit, a bubbling water sculpture, a tactile activity panel, and other elements that children can interact with to help calm and prepare them for their travel experience.
The code to enter the room can be obtained by visiting any Delta Air Lines check-in desk or the information desk located in Concourse F.
User Reviews: The multi-sensory lounge receives high praise from parents traveling with children on the autism spectrum. They highlight the thoughtful design and calming environment as essential resources that significantly improve their travel experience.
Ground Transportation
Private transportation services include assistance and facilities for persons with reduced mobility. Contact the companies directly to request special assistance, a wheelchair lift, or adapted transportation.
For additional information, contact ATL Ground Transportation at Tel +1 404 530 6674.
User Reviews: Travelers with mobility issues often praise the availability and efficiency of ground transportation services. The wheelchair-accessible shuttles, in particular, receive positive feedback, although some passengers have noted that during peak times, wait times for these services can be longer.
Bus and Rail Transport
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) public transportation system has lifts available for customers with disabilities. For more information, call Tel +1 404 848 4711.
Intercity bus service provided by Greyhound also offers assistance to customers with disabilities, including a boarding and alighting point at the airport with direct access to the north side of the Domestic Terminal. Contact the company at Tel +1 800 752 4841 at least 48 hours before departure.
For information on schools offering trained guide dogs for visually impaired travelers, contact Guide Dogs for the Blind, a non-profit charity, at Tel +1 800 295 4050.
User Reviews: Passengers using MARTA and Greyhound services often appreciate the accessibility features, such as lifts and reserved seating. However, some reviews suggest that additional staff training in assisting disabled passengers would enhance the overall experience.
Reserved Parking
Reserved spaces for passengers with disabilities are available in all parking areas of the airport. Use of the Airport Park-Ride facility, which provides convenient service to the Domestic Terminal, is recommended. A free wheelchair-accessible shuttle bus will pick up passengers at their vehicle and take them to curbside check-in.
For additional information, contact ABM-Lanier-Hunt 24 hours a day at Tel +1 404 530 6725.
User Reviews: Travelers with disabilities appreciate the availability of reserved parking and accessible shuttle services. However, some reviews mention that during busy periods, these parking spots can fill up quickly, so early arrival is recommended.
Accessible Restrooms
All restrooms are equipped for wheelchair access. Four sets of men's and women's restrooms are located in each concourse, one at each end and two in the center of each hall. Additionally, there are two sets of restrooms in the Domestic Terminal atrium, including one in the Arrivals Hall. Additional restrooms are available in the International Terminal, on both the Arrivals and Departures levels.
Unisex family restrooms for those traveling with an attendant are located throughout the airport.
User Reviews: The accessibility of restrooms at ATL is widely praised, particularly the availability of unisex family restrooms, which provide added convenience for travelers with special needs. Some passengers have suggested that better signage could help locate these facilities more easily.
Service Animal Relief Areas
The airport offers indoor relief areas for service animals for passengers traveling with pets or guide dogs. These areas are located in each concourse, near gates T7, A10, B33, C17, E15, F7, and in the center of Concourse D.
There is also a 1,000-square-foot dog park in the ground transportation area of the south sector of the Domestic Terminal, outside gates W1 and W2. The area is fully fenced and has biodegradable bags, along with benches.
Additionally, there is a pet area on the Arrivals level of the International Terminal, just outside gate A1.
User Reviews: The service animal relief areas are highly regarded by passengers traveling with pets or guide dogs. The dog park, in particular, is noted for its spaciousness and cleanliness, providing a welcome break for both pets and their owners during long journeys.
TTY / TDD Phone Locations
TTY / TDD phone locations are available at the information desks in Concourses E and F, as well as in the Domestic Terminal. The TTY number for the Domestic Terminal location is +1 404 530 6665.
User Reviews: The availability of TTY / TDD phones is appreciated by hearing-impaired travelers, although some suggest that these devices could be more prominently advertised within the airport to ensure wider accessibility.