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Flying with a chair or O2
Traveling today is daunting enough, but when you add in the need for a power wheelchair or oxygen, it may seem even more overwhelming. With careful planning, the need for a wheelchair or oxygen should not prevent you flying.
While there's no substitute for a travel agent who's experienced with assisting travelers with disabilities, the following questions and answers should help relieve some of the apprehension.
What is the best way to travel by air with a wheelchair?
There have been many horror stories about what airlines have done to power wheelchairs by the time they arrive at their destination. However, most-- if not all-- of those stories might have never happened with some simple preparation. Here are some tips to prevent mishaps:
> Arrive early and always check the chair or scooter at the boarding gate. Request that it be delivered to you at the destination gate, not at the baggage claim area.
> If possible, use gel- or foam-filled batteries in your power wheelchair or scooter, and carry the paperwork about the batteries with you in case the airline has any questions.
> Standard acid-filled batteries will be removed by ground crews and packed in special containers for transport, so if you must use them, be sure to tape instructions on removal and installation in plain view on the chair of scooter.
> If you use a fold up chair, request that it be stored in the on-board closet. There is usually only room for one wheelchair, so arrive early to make your request.
> If you need assistance transferring to a plane seat, take responsibility and tell the staff how to help lift and/or move you. You're always safer assuming that they do not know what works for you.
> Before landing, make sure that you remind an attendant that you will need your chair waiting for you at the gate. They can radio ahead to make arrangements.
> Request an aisle seat, near the front of the plane, since most aisles in coach are too narrow to accomodate chairs. (Some are even too narrow to safely navigate with crutches). Some airlines offer aisle chairs, which are narrower and provide easier access to restrooms, if needed, but you need to call in advance and request it be brought to the plane.
How do I travel with oxygen?
Air travel with oxygen can be accomplished comfortably and safely with advance planning. All US airlines require you to provide a doctor's letter, and the FAA also requires a physician's statement . You cannot bring your own oxygen on board and must use airline-supplied oxygen.
Requirements vary between carriers, but they may require advance arrangements ranging from 48 hours to 7 days. You should also make arrangements with a local company at your destination to have oxygen available during your stay.
Most vendors will deliver directly to the airport; be sure to plan ahead and call ahead. A few dollars in long distance charges is all it takes to turn your travel nightmares into a piece of cake.
This article was excerpted from a Q&A published in the Jan/Feb 2000 issue of Breakthrough.
Rosemarie Kasper contributed to the original article.
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