WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORTATION
How do I send it on an airplane?
What do you do when faced with going on a trip requiring travel by airplane and you need to take/use your wheelchair or scooter. The most critical part, a part emphasized over and over, is to make your plans and reservations as early as possible. Remember disabled travelers always need more time to accomplish the same things as others - keep this in mind when figuring how much time you'll need to check in, get to the plane, etc, etc.
MAKING RESERVATIONS
First off in making your reservations, call to make your reservation as far in advance as possible. Next be sure to tell the reservation clerk you are travelling with a wheelchair or scooter and if you need/want assistance (this is critical, make sure they note if you want/need assistance boarding and/or getting to a seat). If you need/want assistance getting to a seat tell the reservation clerk that you want or need an aisle chair (a narrow, high backed wheelchair that is designed to fit down the aisle of an airplane) not only to board but also tell them to keep it available on the flight in case you can use the standard airplane restroom (this is a matter of personal choice). Still talking with the reservation clerk, be sure to request an aisle seat with a lift-up armrest (they make transferring easier) and be sure to tell the clerk what type of chair you'll be checking (see next paragraph), manual or electric and ask where/how they will store it (so you'll be prepared). Finally, be absolutely sure, you should reconfirm all of this again at least 48 hours before you are scheduled to depart.
DAY OF TRIP
On the day of your trip arrive at the airport early! Check your wheelchair or scooter at the boarding gate not the baggage counter and be sure to tell the flight/gate attendant that it has to be brought back to you at your arrival gate. (Do not let airline personnel talk you into checking your chair and waiting in the aisle chair, it is not comfortable!) Now comes a key point, if your chair or scooter is electric you must know and be able to tell the flight/gate attendant (most attendants might be knowledgeable but don't count on it - if they are, great!) the exact type of batteries your chair or scooter uses (is it a foam filled or gel filled battery - such a dry battery does not have to be removed from the chair in accordance with DOT rules VS. an acid filled battery which does have to be removed, packed and stored separately - airline personnel know how to do this but be sure to carry the papers/instructions with you - just in case!.)
In keeping with the forward strides the ADA initiated, the Air Transport Association's Task Force on Handling Power Wheelchairs has designed a placard to be attached to all new power wheelchairs which details specific assembly and disassembly instructions. Delta airlines is in the process of producing a video that readily explains how to dismantle and reassemble a power chair/scooter. This video is supposed to be distributed to the industry AND the public upon request.
Back to that wheelchair/scooter check-in - be sure your name and address is on your equipment - as well as a gate delivery tag! If you have a manual/folding wheelchair it can usually be stored in a closet, if it is too big or the closet is already full, even a collapsible chair will have to go to the cargo area of the aircraft.
For control of any possible damage (sure the airline is responsible but it's happened more than a few times that one gets to their destination only to find their power wheelchair is now inoperable, then who is inconvenienced?) tape clear, and clearly visible, disassembly instructions directly on the power chair. Keep in mind that even if you are there to give the crew disassembly instructions at the departure location, the airline crew at your destination didn't see how your equipment came apart! Take responsibility to insure it happens correctly
If you encounter any problem or dispute that can't be resolved with the on-the-spot personnel, every U.S. airline (not a foreign carrier) is required by Federal law to have a Conflict Resolution Officer (CRO) in person or via telephone available to you. The CRO's job is to listen to both sides and then decide who is right. Moreover, you are entitled to get the CRO's decision in writing. However, the passenger must ask! Airline personnel are not obligated to initiate this process! A passenger can not be legally put off!
SUMMARY
Seems like a lot of information to keep/do? It is! But who is "out" if you don't. Planning 3, no 5, steps ahead is the key to a safe and comfortable trip! However, if you don't want to deal with all of these details consider using a travel agent experienced in working with clients with physical limitations. Also consider if you only need the scooter or wheelchair for distance and/or the duration of your trip is going to be short, in that case consider renting one at your destination (rental facilities are all over the U.S.)
Finally, learn more about your rights under the Air Carrier's Access Act. Get the pocket guide for reference during your trip - keep it handy! In order to get a free copy, send your name and address to: Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 Eighteenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006 or call them toll free at 888-860-7244.
ACCESS TRAVEL, Inc.
TIM DALY
1-888-342-5315
