Accessibility
In accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, it is the intent of the Charleston Regional Aviation Authority (CRAA) to provide access to all public facilities, programs and services associated with its operation to all persons with disabilities and other special needs.
Public Restroom
All restrooms are accessible to individuals with disabilities and are located throughout the terminal facility, as indicated by the International Symbol of Accessibility. Baby changing stations are available in most men’s and women’s restrooms.
Nursing Mothers
Two nursing suites are located in the airport: one pre-security between carousels 2 and 3 in Baggage Claim and one post-security in Concourse B.
Public Telephones
Public telephones are available in both terminals with wheelchair accessible TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf).
TSA Cares
The TSA Cares helpline can provide information about and assist in preparing for airport screening procedures. Contact TSA Cares 72 hours before traveling to help plan for your trip by calling (855) 787-2227, and a TSA Agent will be in contact with you.
Animal Relief Areas
Charleston International Airport has three designated Service Animal Relief Areas (SARA) for service animals that accompany passengers. There are two areas located outside, one at each end of the terminal building. There is also a designated area post security, located in Concourse A near Gate A2.
Elevators
Public use, accessible elevators are located in the terminal building, including one on each concourse for accessible aircraft boarding. Elevators are also available in the parking garage.
Boarding and Deplaning Assistance
Charleston International Airport has passenger boarding bridges that provide level entry access for aircraft passengers. A passenger access lift also is available to all of our airlines to assist individuals with physical disabilities on and off an aircraft.
Security Screening
All security checkpoints at Charleston International Airport are accessible to individuals with disabilities and medical conditions. Find out more about the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) programs that assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Passengers may arrange for an escort and transport services with wheelchair assistance provided through their airline carrier or airline Skycaps, located at the front curb of the building. Please contact your airline prior to your travels to make any necessary arrangements.
Ground Transportation
Accessible Parking
The parking deck is accessible to people with special needs and has designated handicapped parking available. CHS provides 48 hours (two days) free handicap parking to qualified parking patrons. After two days, the prevailing rates of either the parking deck or the surface parking will be charged. To qualify for free parking at CHS, present a valid handicap placard and a matching driver’s license, both issued by the same state, at the time of exit. The person to whom the placard is issued must be in the vehicle when exiting. If the placard holder is not present, a same-day boarding pass with their name must be shown. To request assistance with disabled parking discounts, press the phone icon at the exit station.
Taxicabs and Shuttle Rides
Curbside attendants are available to assist passengers with disabilities in selecting a wheelchair-accessible taxicab or shuttle ride.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent, and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.
Who can participate?
Anyone can participate in the Hidden Disabilities program. To receive your free bracelet or lanyard, visit our Guest Services Desk located across from Central Hall in the terminal. If you are looking for specific wearables, you can purchase various merchandise on the Sunflower Program’s website.
What is considered a “hidden disability?”
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 26 percent of American adults have some type of disability, many of them not visually apparent. Common hidden disabilities include autism, Crohn’s Disease, dementia, hearing impairment, and PTSD. For the full list of hidden disabilities covered by the Sunflower Lanyard program, visit the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
How does the program work at CHS?
The yellow sunflower on a green background has become a universal symbol of hidden disabilities. Our employees, partners, and airline partners have been briefed on the meaning of the Sunflower Program and have access to training that accompanies being a partner of the Hidden Disability Sunflower Program. If these staff members see you wearing the sunflower, they will understand that you may need extra time getting through check-in and screening.
Does my final destination participate in this program?
Nearly 140 airports across the world have implemented the Sunflower Program! For a full list of participating airports, check the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
Does the Sunflower Program provide physical assistance through the terminal?
CHS recommends that passengers continue to coordinate with their airlines and/or TSA Cares for pre-travel questions and accommodation arrangements.
Concerns about Accessibility
For concerns about accessibility at Charleston International Airport, the Aviation Authority provides the following information: CRAA ADA Complaint Procedures (PDF)