Flying with a wheelchair: tips and tricks
- Flights
Discover essential tips for flying with a physical disability or if you are a traveller who uses a wheelchair.
Flying with a wheelchair: tips and tricks
Tips and tricks for flying if you are a person with a physical disability or use a wheelchair
Hello, travellers! Today we are going to talk about something we are passionate about: travelling! And specifically, flying with a wheelchair! And we will talk about how to do it comfortably, especially for those of us who face added challenges because of a physical disability or because we use a wheelchair or other mobility equipment.
Ready to take off on this adventure of knowledge? Let's go!
Flying with a physical disability
Personalise your experience:
Every trip is unique, and so are your needs. Get in touch with the airline and make sure it knows your specific requirements so that your flight experience can be personalised. Make sure you know, in detail, the protocols the airline applies to transporting people with disabilities and mobility equipment.
Terminology to use when you talk to the airline
The correct term is “person with a disability”. When booking, the most practical thing is to use the name of the service as the airlines call it.
Ask for “assistance for passengers with reduced mobility” (PRM): it is the name airlines and airports use, so they understand you straight away and you can buy the service you need.
The safety of your wheelchair above all:
The safety of your wheelchair or the mobility equipment you use is as important as your own. Make sure that the airline is very clear about all the features and handling points of your equipment, so that they pass that information on to those responsible and handle your equipment with the utmost care.
Preparing for the flight is key:
Having all the information and having everything ready can make all the difference. Research and find out in advance the processes and requirements of the airline you have chosen, so that the trip is well prepared.
How do I choose the best option for booking a flight, bearing in mind my accessibility needs?
Choosing an agency specialising in accessible tourism that arranges adapted flights is important to avoid problems, or if you don't want to spend too much time organising your trip.
Consider factors such as experience in handling the specific needs of travellers with disabilities, the quality of the customer service, which is essential if anything unexpected comes up, and the opinions of other people who have already travelled.
Stories from people who have already flown with us
Over the course of our experience, we have witnessed countless success stories. We are sharing some real cases of travellers who, with our help, have had memorable travel experiences. You can read some of their experiences in our testimonials section.
At Travel Xperience, we understand that flying is more than simply getting from point A to point B. It is an open door to new adventures and unforgettable experiences, and we firmly believe that every person who travels deserves to enjoy them to the full, whatever challenges they may face.
If you prefer, we will handle it so that you can fly with your wheelchair and concentrate on what matters most: enjoying your trip! If you want to know more, get in touch with us and…
Let's fly together!
Frequently asked questions about flying with a wheelchair
How do you prepare for a flight with a wheelchair?
It is essential to plan ahead. Book special assistance at the airport through the airline, check its policy on transporting wheelchairs and confirm specific details, such as transport to the airport.
What services do airlines offer travellers with reduced mobility?
Airlines usually coordinate with the airport's assistance services, offering help with boarding, transport in a wheelchair within the airport and assistance in getting to your seat.
Is it possible to take your wheelchair into the aircraft cabin?
As a rule, wheelchairs have to travel in the hold, although in some cases, with the captain's prior authorisation, small folding or manual wheelchairs are allowed in the cabin. It is advisable to check before your flight.
How do you request special assistance at the airport for people with reduced mobility?
When booking the flight, request assistance and confirm it with the airline at least 48 hours beforehand. Even if you arrange the assistance correctly, it is a good idea to call to make sure everything is confirmed, as errors can occur.
Which airlines offer the best services for travelling in a wheelchair?
The best-known airlines usually have more inclusive protocols. On the other hand, low-cost airlines may have more restrictions. Researching and reading reviews from other travellers will help you choose the right option.
What types of wheelchair can you take on a plane?
You can take both manual and powered wheelchairs. However, powered wheelchairs require special batteries or specific procedures for their transport. Mobility scooters are also allowed, but find out about the regulations, especially regarding lithium batteries.
What are the regulations for transporting wheelchairs or mobility scooters?
If your equipment uses gel batteries, they can travel in the hold without being removed, as long as you leave the equipment in freewheel mode and switched off. Lithium batteries must be carried in the cabin, properly protected. You can take one battery of up to 300W or two of up to 160W each. To work out the watts, multiply the volts by the amps.
What should you do if your wheelchair is damaged during the flight?
Inform the airline immediately to start a claims process. Regulations vary by country and airline. In some places, such as the United States, Canada or Europe, there are protocols that protect your rights. Some airlines can provide you with a temporary wheelchair if you need one.
Are there limitations on air travel for people with disabilities?
The limitations depend on the airline and the type of aircraft, but in general they adapt to make the trip easier. Some airlines may require a medical certificate if you need to travel with equipment such as ventilators.
How can Travel Xperience help you plan a flight in a wheelchair?
We take care of booking assistance and the selection of accessible transport and accommodation. We arrange the pre-authorisation for transporting your mobility equipment and give you the information you need.
What specific services does Travel Xperience offer travellers with reduced mobility?
We offer personalised services, including adapted itineraries, accessible transport and recommendations for accessible accommodation. Every trip is tailor-made to meet your accessibility needs.
How does Travel Xperience work on accessibility throughout the trip?
We have checked every one of the services we offer, from transport to the scheduled activities.
What makes the experience of travelling with Travel Xperience unique for people with disabilities?
From the first contact, we give you personalised attention, prioritising your comfort, safety and enjoyment. We help you to enjoy the trip.
How does Travel Xperience handle the logistics of wheelchairs during the trip?
We coordinate with the airlines on how your equipment is handled, and we check that your booking contains the necessary information. We also provide you with documentation and useful tips.
Published on .
