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16 | InTouch SUMMER 2024 Manual chairs Remove the wheels* so the chair can be folded and stowed in the closet of the plane. Take off any loose items such as footplates, knee supports, valuables, headrests, side guards and armrests. *Some travellers opt to keep their wheels to avoid any risk of them getting lost. Power chairs These vary from person to person and are a bit more involved than manual chairs. If you've never travelled with your power chair before, consider chatting with an adaptive technology technician or someone from the wheelchair company for advice on how to prep it for flight. In general, you may need to consider the following: • Turn off the control panel from the main switch. • Switch the brakes off so that your chair can be pushed. • Recline the back of your wheelchair so it will fit in the cargo space. • Pull the joystick control panel inwards and wrap with bubble wrap and duct tape. • Attach written instructions on how to power on, power off and release break so it can be manually operated by ground crew. • Beyond these specific wheelchair tips, we also recommend that you: • Take pictures of the final state when you hand your chair over to the flight crew. That way if it is damaged you can show what it looked like when it left your hands. • Tag the chair with your name, address and phone number. • Pop an AirTag on your chair to track it while in transit. • Bring your cushion onboard to help relieve pressure from sitting. It's also worth keeping the cushion with you to avoid any risk of it getting lost during transit. Give yourself plenty of time at the airport Airlines have a large network of complimentary meet and assist services that can be selected during booking. If you've opted in, one of the assistance staff will help with everything from checking in to passing security and boarding your aircraft. While checking in, always opt to gate check your wheelchair. From here, you can roll through security in the wheelchair line where you and your chair may be patted down and scanned. Once through security, aim to be at your gate at least 40 minutes before boarding time. When boarding commences, you'll say goodbye to your chair and begin the transfer process to an aisle chair. Make sure you are clear and firm with the airline staff on the best way to perform your transfer to avoid any confusion or concern. If you're travelling with a support worker or support team, they can lead the transfer process to your airplane seat. When you arrive in your destination, sit tight and be patient as you'll be the last to disembark. From here, prepare to do everything in reverse as you transfer to the aisle chair and then travel out to the gate where your wheelchair should be waiting or on its way from the cargo hold. In an ideal world, the process should go by without a hitch. If that isn't the case, try not to stress and remember there are procedures and safeguards in place to ensure you reach your destination safe and sound. Thanks to Flight Centre NZ for sharing the flying tips with us! www.flightcentre.co.nz Attach written instructions on how to power on, power off and release break so it can be manually operated by ground crew. TOP TIPS FOR FLYING WITH A WHEELCHAIR