Flying With a Cane

Hi Peter,

I am going to Texas this summer and need a cane to help me go up or down steps. I am taking a flight that has a stop in Chicago. The plane from Richmond is a small jet that does not use a Jetway, and I need to use my cane to walk out on the tarmac. Can I take a cane? I’m going to buy a wooden one, since the one I now have is metal.

–Joyce, Palmyra, Va.

A: According to the Transportation Security Administration, canes, walkers, and crutches are allowed through airport security checkpoints. You don’t need to buy a wooden cane to replace your metal one, because metal and aluminum canes are permitted, but they must be X-rayed first at the checkpoint. Security officers can assist you through the screening process if you need additional help.