Flying with a Wheelchair – Travelling with Assistive Technology

We are often asked what the requirements are when flying with a wheelchair, and although there is not a one answer solution, as each airline has their own procedures, and each individual has their own needs and requirements. There are a few things you can do to make the journey as smooth as possible when flying domestically in Australia.

Going on holiday and travelling is something many of us find joyful and can bring many experiences that become fond memories. However, for us all, getting to our destination and coming home can often be stressful and daunting, especially when we need to fly. Arrival times, departure gates, getting to the airport, parking etc can cause us stress and frustration. This at times can be amplified for those who use assistive technology.

Before you Fly.

Make Early Reservations – Booking your flights in advance gives you and the airline time to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Contact the Airline – Inform the airline of your wheelchair use and any specific requirements during booking (or potentially prior if you have any concerns before you commit to your travel booking). This will give you and the airline time to confirm and organise specific requirements to your needs.

Label your Wheelchair – Clearly label your wheelchair with your name and contact details. A great tip is to also have a photo with the user in the wheelchair, this will help remind the baggage handlers that this is an important personal assistive device and to take extra care with transport and storage.

Minimise potential loss of parts and damage to the electrical components – As no wheelchairs are the same, especially those tailored to individual needs and specifications. Minimise the risk of damage or part loss during air travel by contacting your wheelchair provider beforehand. Discuss the specific features and components of your chair, including any delicate electrical parts if it’s a powered wheelchair. Together, you can develop a plan to protect these elements during transit. Urgoform offers a free travel check service on all of our customised wheelchairs. For more information click here.

Battery Description – If you are travelling with a battery-operated wheelchair, provided information about the battery type. Contact your flight provider and ask them what information they may require.

At the Airport.

When you arrive at the Airport there are few steps you can take to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Using your Wheelchair – Check prior with your flight provider and find out how long you will be able to use your own wheelchair prior to the flight. This will likely vary if you’re using a manual wheelchair or a power wheelchair and can also depend on who you are flying with.

Request a Gate Check Tag – A good idea to also discuss/confirm when booking or checking flight availability. When you check in your wheelchair (or other mobility aid), ask for a gate check tag. A Gate Check Tag will allow you to take your wheelchair to the boarding gate and pick up your wheelchair at the arrival gate at your destination.

Boarding – Passengers with reduced mobility tend to be the first to board and last to deplane. It is again a good idea to check prior with your flight provider.

Instructions & Maintenance Tools – If your wheelchair requires any disassembly for storage or folding, make sure to attach the instructions to help the airline crew. It is also a good idea to carry some basic maintenance tools as well.

Disconnect the battery – If you are travelling with a power wheelchair, it is best if you or someone you are travelling with disconnects the battery and removes any visible battery wires. Non-spillable batteries must comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Special Provision A67 and Packing Instruction 872. The manufacturer of the battery may be able to confirm if the battery meets this requirement, and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) may also have this information.

As well a contacting potential flight providers early to inquire about their accessibility options and confirm they can accommodate your specific requirements. There are also some other websites you can visit to help you get some accessibility travel information. The official Australian Government website that provides general accessible travel information is available here.

There are a number of travel blogs and community groups you can reach out to as well. These groups are a great resource for not only travel tips for flying, but they also have a lot of information and personal experiences on travel destinations and their accessibility.

Have Wheelchair Will Travel is a website with personal travel accounts and the website has a wealth of information about destinations, accommodation, activities, equipment, and more.  Travel Without Limits  is Australia’s first (and only) disability-specific travel magazine, with information and inspiration to help you plan your travels. Wheelchair Accessible Australia is a Facebook group with a thriving community of people with extensive experience of travelling with a wheelchair in tow.

Holiday and adventure awaits in a number of great locations here in Australia. With all great holidays, all it takes is a bit of planning to discover the ideal destination and the best way to get there for you. – Happy Travels!