With electric mobility aids (powered chairs, wheelchair attachments, scooters, etc.), batteries are often tricky. Be sure to remember what types of batteries you’re carrying within your mobility aid (dry, wet, or lithium) and their rampage (if unsure, refer to manufacturers). Also, know how the batteries are disconnected/power isolated to avoid having to remove them. Lithium-ion batteries are required to be removed, protected, and stored in your carry-on luggage. Knowing the exact requirements of the airline you are flying with is vital, so check with them and print off any proof of confirmation.
Stock up on medications well in advance, spread them across your luggage and suitcases. Travel with double what you need to avoid any problems should delays or cancelations occur. Put a tracker in your checked baggage and attach one to any equipment you won’t take onboard. Noise-canceling headphones are useful, not just for those with noise sensitivities, and having a downloaded playlist or calming medication can help ease any pre-flight jitters or irritations.
My carry-on essentials include intermittent catheters, hand sanitizer, an empty bottle (for emergencies), snacks, eye mask, compression socks, and a charger for my phone (if anything goes wrong, I need to be able to capture it).
During your travel day
Arrive early at the airport to avoid unnecessary stress. Familiarize yourself with the airport layout, and if needed, bring a cane or a Sunflower lanyard to indicate your needs. For those who are hard of hearing, set up text alerts on your phone for updates so you don’t have to rely on announcements over the airport’s PA systems. For pretty much everyone, get to the gate early.
Let’s face it: The transfer from wheelchair to plane seat is not the most dignified or enjoyable experience for anyone involved. Providing privacy when transferring onto an aisle chair or on board is expected, but not mandatory. Slings can be made available, and you can transfer independently or receive assistance from crew as needed. Remember to take all loose items from your mobility aids with you and consider wrapping or labeling your wheelchair with handling instructions for added peace of mind. Take photos of your equipment so you can monitor any damage. Some airlines and countries will permit a manual chair to be stowed on board (this can be checked in advance), but not all.
Getty Images
Navigating onboard
Short-haul flights are not required to carry aisle chairs or an onboard wheelchair under law, and the increasing use of single-aisle planes for long-haul flights further complicates matters. For flights under five hours, I schedule a toilet stop immediately before and after the flight. However, I have had to use a catheter discreetly under a blanket in an emergency. Otherwise, on long-haul flights, I rely on the onboard wheelchair to go to the toilet. While aircraft toilets are improving, don’t get your hopes too high for a comfortable transfer. It’s the responsibility of the cabin crew to assist you to the bathroom, but they will not take care of your personal needs. In economy, I prefer a window seat to minimize the chances of being asked to move, but this makes access to a toilet slightly disruptive for other passengers.
Rights on flights
Knowing what rights you do have while you’re in the air makes all the difference. In 2023, I launched Rights On Flights, a campaign to collaborate with the aviation industry to change legislation and guarantee that everyone can experience equality inflight. Some important things to know, however, are as follows. When you land, you must disembark last, so be patient when waiting for assistance—but don’t tolerate lateness. You should request your equipment be returned to the aircraft door, and you have every right to remain in your seat until it does. When you are reunited with your equipment, check for any damage and, if necessary, immediately report it. Take photos and videos and post them, tagging #RightsOnFlights.
Airlines are liable for any damage to mobility equipment. However, the amount of compensation may be limited so take out extra insurance if you can or arrange the declaration of special interest in advance. If your equipment is damaged, the airport is responsible for providing a temporary alternative while yours is repaired or replaced. However, be warned: This does not have to be on a like-for-like basis. Every airline is different, so there is no definitive course of action. Talk to a lawyer if your rights have been infringed, or reach out to the regulator.
