Traveling on an Airplane with a Power Wheelchair

Traveling in general as a wheelchair user is challenging enough especially after the Coronavirus pandemic. The good news is preparation and knowledge of the travel industry can make your trip enjoyable and smooth. Some rules and guidelines are set in place by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for wheelchair users to follow. The following information will guide you on your journey to traveling on an airplane as a wheelchair user.

Proper Paperwork

The first topic you need to focus on is the paperwork required for travel. Always make sure your passport is up-to-date and at least six months away from expiring. Also, make sure you have all visas needed to travel to your international destination. Passengers that are traveling on a domestic flight need to have proper identification according to TSA requirements. The Transportation Security Administration is always changing and updating its rules so always check the current guidelines that will be in effect during your trip.

Accepted Wheelchair Batteries

Airlines vary on their guidelines about wheelchair batteries, but generally, non-spillable batteries are accepted on airplanes. This type of battery does not contain liquid similar to a marine or automotive battery. Reading your mobility device manual will help you determine the type of battery your power wheelchair uses. Keep in mind lithium batteries can’t exceed 300 amp-hours.

Your Travel Rights as a Wheelchair User

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified power wheelchairs as medical equipment which means you are required to travel with your wheelchair to assure your overall good health. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) demands on all public places to follow and adhere to their guidelines and includes all transportation services to accommodate a disabled person.

Process of Transporting a Power Wheelchair on an Airplane

Passengers often feel overwhelmed about transporting their wheelchair on an airplane, but it’s actually easy. The first thing you need to know is that it’s free for you to transport your device. This rule is set in place by the ADA and FAA.

Plan Ahead

Plan in advance to assure the process goes smoothly. After making your airline reservation, you need to notify the airline directly and speak with customer service regarding your mobility device. The airline will ask you for specific information about your power wheelchairs such as battery type, battery size, and wheelchair model. Some airlines such as American Airlines might request a note from your doctor specifying that your power wheelchair meets your needs based on your condition. They also might request other documentation required for their records.

Boarding Your Mobility Device

Before you begin the check-in process, you need to take pictures and video of your wheelchair or mobility scooter. Take several pictures from different angles and some close up as well. Also, take a video of the joystick working correctly and moving your power wheelchair in the proper direction. Keep these pictures and videos on your cell phone throughout your trip and only delete them after you have arrived back home with your wheelchair in the same condition you left it. These pictures and videos are meant to prove to the airlines that your wheelchair was in proper working order before boarding the airplane. This evidence will help you if you need to report the damage to your wheelchair.

The Check-In Process

After you take the photos and videos of your wheelchair, you will need to begin the check-in process. The customer service representative of your airline will provide you with instructions to follow to accommodate your needs further. You will start the process by transferring to a standard wheelchair. Generally, at this point, a worker from the airline will take your power wheelchair to the plane while you go through the security checkpoints with the standard wheelchair. A worker will then transport you onto the airplane first to help get you comfortably seated.

In-Flight Accommodations

Airline staff is required to assist passengers that are wheelchair users with the following:

• Transfer the passenger to and from their seat during the boarding and exiting process.
• Transport the passenger to and from the onboard bathroom with a standard wheelchair. However, airline staff is not required to assist with lifting the passenger or assisting with personal needs while in the restroom.
• Retrieve and load carry-on luggage and items to assure they fit safely in the overhead area.

Wheelchairs that Can go on the Airplane

According to the Air Carrier Access Act, all airlines are required to provide an area in the aircraft cabin to store wheelchairs that fold, collapse, or break-down. An excellent tip to assure the plane you will be taking has available storage, is to confirm the airplane has more than 100 seats. The ACAA requires airplanes this large to provide a storage space measuring at least 13” X 36” X 42” inches.

Benefits of Traveling with a Wheelchair on an Airplane

• Prevents damage to the wheelchair
• Convenient access when boarding and exiting the plane
• The wheelchair is never out of your sight
• Perfect for layovers
• You don’t have to worry that your wheelchair will get lost with the luggage

Tips for Traveling on an Airplane with a Power Wheelchair

• Prepare your documents ahead of time
• Make reservations and speak to customer service regarding your wheelchair
• Discuss your exact needs and the role you need the airline's staff to play for a successful and comfortable flight
• Know your rights. Brush up on the current ADA, TSA, ACAA, and FAA regulations.
• Report damages to your wheelchair directly to the airline customer service immediately after your flight.
• Know where the nearest power wheelchair repair service is located at your travel destination.
• Take pictures and videos before the flight to assure your wheelchair is in good working order.

Resourceful Links

• https://www.tsa.gov/

• https://www.ada.gov/

• https://www.transportation.gov/tags/air-carrier-access-act

This guide will help you navigate your way through air travel successfully. Always know your rights, stay up-to-date with current TSA changes, and take pictures of your wheelchair to protect your equipment.