QUESTION: There is a general concern over the carelessness with which wheelchairs are treated by airlines and others transporting the chairs. How can we protect our wheelchairs and travel by plane?
First of all, remove anything that you can! This goes beyond accessories and cup holders. Seat cushions, clothing guards – if it can come off, it’s better to take it with you on the plane than to risk something happening to it.
Second, if you have a power chair, practice taking it apart and putting it together. The airline may or may not ask you to take it apart on your own, but either way they’re not likely to know how to put it back together when you land – that will be up to you. Bring the tools you need, and an extra bag for any chair parts that you want to keep on the plane.