Can you take an electric wheelchair on an airplane?

electric wheelchair on the plane

Most airlines allow passengers to take electric wheelchairs on board. However, some airlines state that only wheelchairs that meet their requirements are allowed. Therefore, if you decide to take an electric wheelchair on the plane, you should check the official information on the website of the respective airline in advance.

For example, consider the airline's policies regarding battery type and wheelchair size, etc. Below I have listed some of the different airline rules and carry-on requirements.

airline-approved electric wheelchairs

Due to the risk of explosion when transporting loaded products on an aircraft, airlines have established transportation requirements for all loaded products as well as the necessary documents that must be prepared for the transport of these products on an aircraft.

In addition, the transportation costs incurred for different sizes and weights of motorized wheelchairs are different. It is important to find out in advance how airlines calculate the transportation of goods in order to avoid misunderstandings.

I have listed some airline requirements for transporting power wheelchairs as well as specific products:

• Battery requirements : Power wheelchairs with lithium-ion batteries are generally permitted provided they do not exceed 300 watt-hours (Wh) per battery. If the wheelchair has two batteries, each battery must not exceed 160 Wh.
• Removable : If the wheelchair battery is removable, it must be brought into the cabin and stowed safely to avoid damage. This is a common requirement of most airlines.
• Wheelchair design : Folding power wheelchairs are often preferred for air travel because they are easier to store in the aircraft's cargo hold. Models specifically advertised as "Airline Approved" or "TSA Approved" are designed to meet these standards.
• Documentation and preparation : Be sure to bring documentation proving the wheelchair's battery type and compliance with airline regulations. It is also recommended to carry a wheelchair manual to help flight crew use it correctly.

Many modern electric wheelchairs are specially designed for air travel. Examples include:

• VOCIC : There are some folding lithium battery wheelchairs that meet aviation requirements and can be carried on the plane. If you need, you can consult our official website. VOCIC also provides walking aids and other assistive devices.
• Model Ci : This wheelchair has a smaller size and an innovative design that makes it suitable for air travel.
• Scout Compact Travel Power by Drive Medical : This wheelchair is also ideal for travel and has been designed to be portable.

When purchasing or planning your trip, it is advisable to check with the airline for specific policies and requirements to ensure your power wheelchair can travel smoothly. Also ask if any special services are offered, such as assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Which airlines accept wheelchairs?

Most airlines have facilities to assist passengers traveling with wheelchairs. In the United States, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) requires airlines to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, during the flight, and with wheelchair transport. Here are some airlines that offer wheelchairs:

• American Airlines : In accordance with the U.S. Air Transportation Accessibility Act (ACAA), all types of wheelchairs, including manual and electric wheelchairs, are transported free of charge. Passengers using electric wheelchairs must inform the airline when booking and before boarding, especially about the battery type and specifications, in order to comply with safety regulations.
• British Airways : Offers transport of power wheelchairs, but requires passengers to notify the airline 72 hours in advance and provide details of the wheelchair and battery.
• Lufthansa : Accepts most types of electric wheelchairs, pays special attention to battery safety and requires passengers to provide details of the wheelchair battery.
• Air France : Transports manual and electric wheelchairs and provides special assistance to passengers travelling with electric wheelchairs, but requires passengers to provide detailed battery information and a safety certificate.
• Emirates : Offers a power wheelchair service but has specific restrictions and safety requirements for power wheelchair batteries and passengers must be notified and confirmed prior to flight.
• Qantas : Also allows power wheelchairs on board, but requires passengers to provide all relevant information about the power wheelchair and battery, including whether it is a lithium battery and the battery's watt-hour capacity.

Before your trip, it is recommended that you contact the airline's customer service department to obtain the most accurate information and necessary travel preparation instructions to ensure that your power wheelchair can be transported safely. In addition, airline websites often provide detailed instructions on how to prepare and transport a power wheelchair.

Which batteries are safe for air travel?

When traveling by plane, not all batteries are considered safe due to potential risks such as short circuits and fires. Here are some considerations for the types of batteries allowed on the plane:

1. lithium-ion battery

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in portable electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops and cameras and are permitted in carry-on baggage. For safety reasons, battery capacity is limited to 100 watt-hours (Wh), but batteries with a capacity of up to 160 Wh are permitted with airline approval. These batteries must be protected against short circuits by covering the terminals and should always be carried in the cabin and not in checked baggage. If you are travelling with lithium-ion batteries as a mobility aid, you must obtain approval from your airline in advance.

1. nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery

NiMH batteries are used in some older portable devices and rechargeable household items. These batteries are considered safe for air travel when carried in carry-on luggage. They have fewer restrictions than lithium-ion batteries, but still require careful handling to avoid short circuits.

1. alkaline batteries

Alkaline batteries are disposable batteries commonly used in a variety of devices, including toys, flashlights, and remote controls. These batteries are safe for air travel and can be carried in carry-on or checked baggage without any special restrictions, making them the least problematic in terms of flight safety.

1. lead-acid battery

Lead-acid batteries are commonly used in vehicles and some mobility aids and are only permitted to be carried on an aircraft if they are sealed and securely attached to the mobility device. These batteries must be housed in a protective case to prevent leakage and require airline approval before travel. Unless installed in a walking aid, they are generally not permitted in baggage.

Each battery type has specific guidelines and restrictions for air travel, so it is important to check with your airline about their specific rules before traveling.

How do you transport an electric wheelchair on an airplane?

Transporting a power wheelchair on an airplane requires several steps to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

1. Contact the airline

Before you travel, inform the airline that you will be travelling with a power wheelchair and provide details such as height, weight and battery type. Early communication is important as it allows the airline to prepare for the specific needs of your wheelchair, especially regarding battery regulations.

1. Prepare the wheelchair

Prepare your power chair for air travel by disconnecting or removing the battery if required by the airline. Make sure all loose parts are securely fastened to avoid damage during transport. If the battery is removable, store it safely in your carry-on luggage to protect it from impact or damage.

1. Arrive at the airport early

Arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for mobility aid processing. Upon arrival, check in at the airline customer service desk to complete the necessary paperwork and prepare the wheelchair for transport.

1. take protective measures

Provide the wheelchair with protective devices such as a waterproof cover or padding to protect it from possible damage during transport. It is also advisable to mark the wheelchair with an ID or label to ensure it can be identified after landing.

1. During the flight

Once the wheelchair is checked in for transport, it will be kept in the aircraft's cargo hold. Some airlines offer wheelchair replacement during the flight. It is advisable to inquire about the airline's services in advance to ensure you are well taken care of during the flight.

1. arrival at the destination

After landing, you should contact airline staff immediately to collect your wheelchair. Before leaving the airport, carefully inspect the wheelchair for any damage and report any damage immediately.

FAQ

1. How to pack a wheelchair for a flight?

When flying with a wheelchair, you should first contact the airline to understand their specific procedures and prepare the wheelchair by cleaning and checking for maintenance. Remove all removable parts to minimize the risk of damage. Label your wheelchair with personal information and handling instructions and properly protect any sensitive components, especially if it is a power wheelchair and follow specific battery regulations. Check in at the airport early and immediately inspect your wheelchair for any damage upon arrival. Report any damage immediately to the airline.

2. Can you sit in a wheelchair during the flight?

No, you cannot sit in a wheelchair during the flight. For safety reasons, including compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, airlines require passengers to transfer from wheelchairs to the aircraft seats. However, most airlines offer assistance boarding and disembarking, and many aircraft are equipped with aisle chairs to help passengers with limited mobility access their seats. Your wheelchair will be stored in the cargo hold and usually returned at the gate upon arrival.

3. How much does it cost to take an electric wheelchair on a plane?

Usually, checking a power wheelchair on the plane is free of charge, as airlines are required by law to transport mobility aids for disabled passengers free of charge. Advance notification to the airline is required to ensure that suitable arrangements are made, especially for battery-powered wheelchairs . Please check any additional regulations for international flights first.

Related reading: Can you take a walker on a plane?