This blog post is all about whether you can take a power wheelchair on a plane.
Preparation is key to a smooth experience during any trip, especially if you use a power wheelchair.
Planning from the beginning is super important, not only to enhance your trip but to make it possible!
Can You Take A Power Wheelchair On A Plane?
So, here are 10 useful tips based on power wheelchair travelers to ensure you and your electric wheelchair arrive safely at your destination.
1. Check the airline’s information before booking a ticket
While there are national and international regulations, countries and airlines vary widely in terms of what is permitted on board.
Airlines often provide helpful information on how to prepare for your trip and confirm that you can fly with your electric wheelchair safe for travel with no issues.
Even with the best of intentions, size limitations mean that not all commercial aircraft can accommodate electric wheelchairs.
Airlines also have the final say on whether a passenger is medically fit to fly and may require you to prepare additional forms or undergo a medical check in advance.
2. Carefully read your mobility equipment manufacturer’s information about moving around
Even if you are a frequent traveler, different models may have very different guidelines for safe transport.
Check if your chair’s manufacturer includes the guidelines for travel use. It can be a PDF doc or an info page on the official website.
3. Prepare your trip by reading guides from trusted organizations
Discussing your journey with other people who have flown with their wheelchairs or reading a first-hand blog can also give you ideas.
When looking at advice, be sure to consider your personal situation and whether it is similar or different.
4. Once you have booked your ticket, consider purchasing additional insurance for your wheelchair before flying
Although airlines are liable for damage in transit, reimbursement limitations mean that the amount may not always cover the full cost of the chair.
This insurance can be taken out as an add-on to travel insurance or home contents insurance or as a bespoke insurance policy.
5. Prepare your electric wheelchair at home for the trip
If you bring an empty travel bag to store removable components, such as headrests, armrests, and footrests, you will likely be able to bring them into the cabin during the flight.
This is an important question to ask before deciding on a particular airline.
Consider how you can prepare your wheelchair for travel, such as protecting frame components that may get scratched, bringing a small tool kit (be sure to check airline carry-on baggage guidelines for restrictions), and protecting your chair in other ways possible.
Keep in mind that it may be exposed to the elements during loading and unloading.
6. Request assistance and provide all information to the airline as soon as you book your ticket
For many airlines, this is done in the same area where other information, such as passport information, is provided.
7. Go to the airport in advance
Most airlines recommend 3 hours for long-haul flights and 2 hours for short-haul flights.
Also, get to the gate as early as possible so you can be prepared, discuss your needs, and introduce yourself to the airline crew.
Some airlines recommend arriving at the gate up to a plus hour early for long-haul flights.
8. As soon as you arrive at the airport, contact assistance services to discuss your needs, schedule, and next steps
In most cases, you will be able to remain in your wheelchair until boarding.
Use this time at the airport to take photos of your wheelchair as evidence of its condition just before you travel.
9. Have information about your wheelchair and batteries on hand when traveling, and make it easy for the crew to access it
The safety of your wheelchair or any mobility equipment you use is just as important as your own.
Make sure the airline is very clear about all the features and handling points of your equipment so that they can pass this information on to those responsible and handle your stuff with the utmost care.
High visibility stickers can be a useful way to prevent damage by instructing the crew to lift your chair by the frame, not by the armrests or wheels.
Consider placing a durable label on your mobility device with all the necessary information.
10. When you arrive at your destination, immediately check the condition of your wheelchair
If there is damage, record or photograph it and report it immediately.
Traveling With A Power Wheelchair
Every year, thousands of wheelchair users travel without incident.
However, even if the chair is in good condition, it has been on the move. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check the daily maintenance items as soon as possible: tighten, inflate, lubricate, and generally take care of them to ensure the best travel experience possible.
Every traveler is unique, and so are your needs.
Communicate with the airline and make sure they know your specific requirements to customize your flight experience.
Make sure you know, in detail, the airline’s protocols regarding the transport of people with disabilities and mobility equipment. Have a safe trip!
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