I don’t use a wheelchair, but I have a leg with a rod in it, from my thigh to my ankle. My problem is, I would like to fly to visit my son, but I fear that there won’t be enough room for my leg, as I cannot bend it. Do you have any suggestions or advice for me? Is flying even a possibility?

Yes, flying is s definite possibility for you. Under the Air Carrier Access Act (which governs access on commercial airlines in the US, and on foreign carriers to and from the US) you are included as someone who qualifies for a bulkhead seat. A bulkhead seat is a seat that either has a wall or a curtain in front of it, but no seat. These seats sometimes have a little more leg room.

It’s a good idea to call the airline and ask for the measurements of the bulkhead row. Remember, if the bulkhead happens to be in an exit row, you won’t be qualified to sit there (another ACAA regulation). And although I’ve never taken measurements of the bulkhead rows, I’m a tall gal with incredibly long legs and I can put my feet up on the bulkhead while seated.

So ask for a bulkhead and let the agent know that you qualify (immovable leg) under the ACAA. If they don’t want to give you a bulkhead, ask to speak to a supervisor, and then the Complaint Resolution Official if your issue isn’t properly addressed.