For individuals who rely on wheelchairs or mobility scooters, air travel can be challenging without proper planning. Airlines have specific policies regarding the transport of mobility aids, particularly concerning battery types, size restrictions, and advance notice requirements. This guide outlines the requirements set by Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex to help ensure a smooth travel experience.
General Airline Regulations for Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters
While each airline has unique policies, some common requirements include:
- Battery Restrictions: Lithium-ion, dry cell, and wet cell batteries have specific handling and packaging rules.
- Size and Weight Limits: Airlines may have restrictions based on aircraft type.
- Advance Notification: Passengers are usually required to inform airlines in advance if they plan to travel with a mobility aid.
- Storage Considerations: Some wheelchairs may be stored in the cabin, while larger models are placed in the cargo hold.
Qantas Requirements
- Accepted Devices: Manual and powered wheelchairs are allowed.
- Battery Restrictions:
- Dry-cell and lithium-ion batteries must be properly secured.
- Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 300Wh.
- If carrying a spare battery, it must not exceed 160Wh.
- Advance Notification: Passengers must inform Qantas at least 48 hours before departure.
- Onboard Assistance: Assistance is provided for boarding, deplaning, and seat transfers.
- Storage Policy: Some wheelchairs can be stored in the cabin, while larger ones are placed in the cargo hold.
Virgin Australia Requirements
- Mobility Aids Accepted: Manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, and mobility scooters.
- Size and Weight Limits:
- Maximum dimensions: 140cm (height) x 85cm (width).
- Weight limit: 120kg including the passenger.
- Battery Handling:
- Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 300Wh.
- Wet-cell batteries must be approved and securely packed.
- Notification and Assistance: Passengers must notify Virgin Australia at least 48 hours before travel.
- Additional Accessibility Services: Virgin Australia provides mobility assistance at airports upon request.
Jetstar Requirements
- Collapsible vs. Non-Collapsible Wheelchairs:
- Collapsible manual wheelchairs can be stored in the cabin.
- Non-collapsible electric wheelchairs must go in the cargo hold.
- Battery Regulations:
- Lithium-ion batteries must be within 160Wh for carry-on.
- For higher capacities (160Wh–300Wh), approval is required.
- Advance Booking Requirements: Passengers must notify Jetstar at least 48 hours before departure.
- Aircraft Restrictions: Some smaller aircraft may have weight or size limitations.
- In-Flight Accessibility: Jetstar does not provide onboard aisle wheelchairs for narrow-body aircraft.
Rex (Regional Express) Requirements
- Wheelchair Acceptance: Manual and battery-operated wheelchairs are allowed, subject to aircraft limitations.
- Battery Restrictions:
- Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 300Wh.
- Wet-cell and dry-cell batteries must be secured properly.
- Advance Notice: Passengers must inform Rex at least 48 hours before departure.
- Assistance Services: Limited assistance is available at smaller regional airports.
- Special Considerations for Small Aircraft: Due to aircraft size, larger mobility aids may not be accommodated.
Renting Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids for Travel
If you don’t own a wheelchair or mobility aid, or prefer to rent one for travel, Assistive Tech Hub offers a range of rental options. Here are some of the available products:
- Fully Carbon Fibre Power Wheelchair – $85/week
- Automatic Reclining Backrest Power Wheelchair – $70/week
- Automatic Folding Mobility Scooter – $150/week
- Double Folding Walker – $25/week
- Heavy Duty Walker – $30/week
- Patient Transfer Lifter with Portable Seat – $170/week
- Reclining Commode Chair on Wheels – $100/week
- Hi-low Bed (Including Soft Cover and Mattress) – $200/week
For more details or to book a rental, visit Assistive Tech Hub.
Tips for Traveling with a Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter
Preparing for Your Flight
- Check Airline Policies Early: Each airline has different regulations; check their website or contact them directly.
- Book Assistance Services in Advance: Request airport assistance if needed.
- Battery Safety Measures: Ensure that the battery is secured and within airline limits.
Airport Procedures
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for check-in and security clearance.
- Security Screening: Expect your wheelchair or mobility scooter to be inspected.
- Boarding Process: Many airlines provide pre-boarding for passengers with mobility aids.
During the Flight
- In-Flight Mobility: Some airlines provide onboard wheelchairs for accessible bathrooms.
- Seat Selection: Request an aisle seat near the front of the aircraft for easier access.
Arrival and Post-Flight
- Baggage Claim for Mobility Aids: Confirm where your wheelchair will be returned upon landing.
- Inspect for Damage: Report any damages immediately to airline staff.
Pre-Travel Checklist for Passengers
- Confirm Airline Policies: Check with your airline for the latest mobility aid regulations.
- Prepare Your Wheelchair/Scooter: Ensure it meets battery and size requirements.
- Carry Documentation: Have battery specifications and medical certificates if required.
- Request Assistance in Advance: Arrange for boarding and seat transfer support if needed.
- Have Backup Plans: Carry an emergency repair kit for minor wheelchair issues.
Conclusion
Traveling with a wheelchair or mobility scooter requires careful planning, but understanding airline policies can help make the journey smoother. Always check with your airline well in advance to avoid last-minute complications. If in doubt, reach out to the airline’s disability support services for guidance. Additionally, if you need to rent a mobility aid, Assistive Tech Hub offers a wide selection of options to make your journey easier.
By preparing ahead of time and knowing what to expect, wheelchair and mobility scooter users can enjoy a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
