【Traveling by Plane】Guide to Boarding with a Wheelchair and Booking Tickets! Introducing Available Support

When individuals who use wheelchairs travel, they often face various inconveniences at their destinations.

Additionally, there are often restrictions on mobility, which may not allow for smooth travel experiences.

Many people may particularly feel that traveling by airplane presents numerous challenges.

This article will introduce how to use and board an airplane with a wheelchair.

Each airline offers various services, so be sure to use this as a reference.

1. Can wheelchair users board an airplane?

Many may wonder if wheelchair users can board an airplane.

Rest assured! Of course, wheelchair users can use airplanes.

However, it is important to note that you will need to check your wheelchair and use an in-flight wheelchair, among other restrictions, so it is crucial to confirm these details in advance.

Follow the basic flow introduced next to get an idea of what it's like to board an airplane.

2. Basic process for boarding an airplane with a wheelchair

2-1. Confirm if you can board with a wheelchair before purchasing a ticket

Before purchasing a ticket, first check with each airline's website or inquiry phone line to confirm if you can board with a wheelchair.

Many airlines, including JAL (Japan Airlines) and ANA (All Nippon Airways), require you to check your personal wheelchair and use the one provided by the airline.

Your personal wheelchair will be responsibly transported to your destination by the airline.

2-2. Request support at the airport or in-flight when purchasing

When purchasing a ticket, make sure to request support at the airport or in-flight by checking the appropriate box.

There will also be a section to check your walking status, so don't forget to fill it out.

By accurately communicating your condition in advance, you can receive better services suited to your needs.

2-3. Check-in upon arrival at the airport

Make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. It is recommended to arrive 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 120 minutes before for international flights.

This is because checking in your wheelchair might take time, or unexpected issues might arise.

Once you arrive at the airport, proceed to check-in.

Go to a manned check-in counter to confirm your flight and complete the check-in process.

If you need support, they will confirm what level of assistance you require.

2-4. Check your wheelchair and switch to an airport wheelchair

Afterward, you will check your personal wheelchair.

Some airlines allow you to use your personal wheelchair up to the aircraft entrance if desired.

If you wish to do so, inquire with the respective airline.

For precautions when checking your wheelchair, please read "3-1. Confirm the type and specifications of the wheelchair you are bringing" mentioned later.

Once you check your wheelchair, the airline will provide a wheelchair for you to use.

Each airline offers various types of wheelchairs. If you have a preferred type, it is advisable to inform them when making your reservation.

2-5. Security check at the security checkpoint

Proceed to the security checkpoint for a security check by the time specified by the airline.

Make sure to place all your carry-on items in a tray and hand them over.

You can pass through the security gate while remaining in your wheelchair with assistance from staff.

In some cases, a pat-down inspection may be conducted.

If you have a pacemaker or metal medical devices in your body, or if you have concerns about the inspection, inform the staff before passing through.

2-6. Board the airplane and transfer to your seat

Individuals using wheelchairs can board the airplane ahead of other passengers.

The boarding method varies depending on the airport, airline, and flight, with options such as lift vehicles or ramps.

Rest assured, staff will assist you with boarding in all cases.

Once on board, to navigate narrow aisles and facilitate smooth transfer to your seat, the wheelchair's wheels and armrests are removed.

Then, move to the vicinity of your seat and transfer.

When transferring to your seat, accurately communicate to the staff what kind of assistance you need.

If you have difficulty maintaining a seated position, some airlines provide support belts, pillows, or blankets, so check in advance and request them if necessary.

2-7. Transfer to your wheelchair in the lobby upon arrival

Once the airplane safely arrives at the destination, wait for the staff to come to your seat.

Transfer to the loaned wheelchair and move with the staff to the baggage claim area.

The staff will directly return your checked personal wheelchair to you.

With the staff's assistance, transfer to your wheelchair, and if desired, they can guide you to baggage claim or taxi and bus stops.

If you wish for support upon arrival, you need to request it in advance, so don't forget to do so when booking your ticket.

If you prefer to transfer to your wheelchair immediately after disembarking, inform them in advance.

3. Points to note when boarding an airplane with a wheelchair

3-1. Confirm the type and specifications of the wheelchair you are bringing

When checking your wheelchair, the following checks will be conducted.

• Whether it is electric or manual
• Whether it is foldable
• Size (depth, width, height)
• Weight
• Type of battery (if electric)

If you have an electric wheelchair, it is necessary to be aware of the type of battery used.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism also sets rules for using electric wheelchairs on aircraft, as follows.

Electric wheelchairs do not pose any danger when used on land, but when transported by air, they may pose the following risks due to large pressure or temperature changes or continuous vibrations.

・The power may turn on and start moving due to vibrations during transport
・Electrolyte such as sulfuric acid in the battery may leak due to pressure or temperature changes during transport
・The battery may catch fire due to shocks during transport

Therefore, international and domestic regulations set rules for safely transporting electric wheelchairs by aircraft according to the type of battery used.

Source: Overview of Standards for Electric Wheelchairs in Japan｜Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Additionally, the IATA (International Air Transport Association) Dangerous Goods Regulations, effective January 1, 2021, stipulate that electric wheelchair users must "be aware of the type of battery used in their electric wheelchair."

In other words, to ensure the safe transport of your electric wheelchair, you have a duty to be aware of and communicate the type of battery used.

If you are unsure, contact the manufacturer of your electric wheelchair in advance or bring the instruction manual with you.

Depending on your manufacturer, you may need to confirm the boarding procedures in advance, so always follow the airline's instructions.

3-2. Clearly communicate your walking condition and symptoms

Each airline allows you to inform them of your walking condition when making a reservation.

Additionally, clearly communicate your symptoms and the extent of support needed at the manned counter at the airport.

To receive the best support for yourself, it is very important to accurately communicate your symptoms and requests.

By explaining clearly and specifically, you can receive satisfactory service.

3-3. About seat selection

Some airlines allow you to select seats with movable armrests or seats near restrooms, so if you have preferences, inquire with the airline.

However, depending on the congestion or the flight, it may be difficult, so it is necessary to understand this in advance.

3-4. Medical electronic device and oxygen tank users need a doctor's certificate

Users of medical electronic devices or oxygen tanks need a doctor's certificate.

A specific form from the airline is required, so check the format and have your doctor fill it out.

Some airlines have deadlines for submitting the certificate, so be sure to check the deadline and submit it on time.

Note that in-flight power is not available, so prepare a sufficient amount of batteries yourself.

Reference: For customers bringing and using medical devices｜JAPAN AIRLINES

4. Restrooms available for in-flight wheelchair use

In-flight wheelchairs are available on the plane.

If you need to use the restroom, inform the staff, and they will prepare the in-flight wheelchair and assist you in moving to the restroom.

Generally, there are restrooms that can be used with the in-flight wheelchair provided by each airline, but some aircraft do not have them, so be sure to confirm this when making a reservation.

5. Initiatives for wheelchair support by each airline

5-1. JAL (Japan Airlines)

JAL offers basic wheelchair support and a "Special Assistance Registration Service."

By registering your wheelchair information and required support information at the airport and in-flight in your Mileage Bank member information, you will not need to make requests each time you book a flight.

If you frequently use JAL flights, consider registering for this service.

However, if you require medical oxygen or medical equipment use on board, or if you need a stretcher, a doctor's certificate and an accompanying person are required each time, and the Special Assistance Registration Service cannot be used, so please be aware.

Reference: Special Assistance Registration Service｜JAPAN AIRLINES

5-2. ANA (All Nippon Airways)

ANA offers basic wheelchair support and various other support services.

In December 2011, in response to requests from those unable to climb stairs, ANA introduced a step lift wheelchair (assist stretcher) at airports primarily serving small aircraft.

Additionally, ANA has established a "Consultation Desk for Passengers with Disabilities" as a consultation service for passengers with boarding concerns.

For passengers who cannot sit in a seat and need to lie down during takeoff and landing, ANA offers consultation for boarding with a stretcher, primarily for those being transferred to another hospital.

Reference: About ANA's Initiatives｜ANA

5-3. Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines provides wheelchair services and support at airports.

They also offer in-flight wheelchairs designed for use in aircraft aisles and most restrooms.

Staff will assist you during boarding, disembarking, and connecting to your next flight.

Advance application is required via the Accessibility Services Request Form on Delta Air Lines' official website, so be sure to apply.

Reference: Wheelchair, Scooter & Assistive Devices｜Delta Air Lines

Additionally, Delta Flight Products, a subsidiary, unveiled a prototype seat that allows passengers to remain in their wheelchair in June 2023.

This allows your wheelchair to be secured on board.

Further design and validation will be pursued, with efforts to obtain certification from the "Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)" and the "European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)."

This could establish a new norm for air travel with wheelchairs. We look forward to more updates.

Reference: Delta Flight Products to Debut New Accessibility-Focused Products at 2024 Aircraft Interiors Expo｜Delta Air Lines

5-4. Skymark

At Skymark, by informing the reservation center of the following conditions in advance, you can receive necessary assistance at the airport and on board.

• Walking condition (ability to climb stairs or walk long distances)
• Wheelchair specifications (size, weight, and foldability)

Note that the number of airport wheelchairs available for loan is limited, so early reservation is recommended.

When boarding, you can be guided onto the aircraft with priority, and if you have difficulty climbing stairs, a lift car is available.

Additionally, if the lift car cannot be used, a wheelchair ramp vehicle or assistance from Skymark staff is available.

Reference: For Customers Needing Assistance｜Skymark Airlines

5-5. Star Flyer

For Star Flyer, by contacting the SF CALL CENTER (Domestic Reservation Center) with the "Walking Condition/Wheelchair Check-in Sheet," you can receive support based on your walking condition and wheelchair specifications.

Reference: Walking Condition/Wheelchair Check-in Sheet｜Star Flyer Inc.

If you need assistance moving within the airport or checking in your wheelchair, arrive at least 60 minutes before departure.

All airports have wheelchairs available for loan, and they can be used up to the aircraft.

Cabin crew will also provide support on board, and if you have difficulty maintaining a seated position, support belts are available for loan. Due to limited availability, request a loan at the time of reservation.

Upon arrival at the airport, you can receive support guiding you to the arrival lobby or to those meeting you, ensuring peace of mind.

Reference: For Customers with Walking Difficulties｜Star Flyer Inc.

6. How to reserve a rental car after air travel

After arriving at your destination airport, you may want to travel by rental car.

If you wish to use a welfare vehicle, search for a rental car company that offers welfare vehicles and make a reservation.

Additionally, rental car companies near the airport typically offer pick-up services, making it convenient after air travel with lots of luggage.

For example, "Nissan Rent a Car" offers welfare vehicle rentals at various locations near airports such as Haneda Airport, Fukuoka Airport, Komatsu Airport, and Aomori Airport.

Reference: Welfare Vehicle List | Nissan Rent a Car

"Choinori Rent a Car," with locations near New Chitose Airport and Okadama Airport, offers a set plan with a wheelchair and a rental car (standard car).

Reference: Set Plan with Wheelchair｜Garage Line Co., Ltd.

Before renting a car, confirm with the rental car company whether assistance is available for getting in and out of the vehicle.

Ayumi also introduces nationwide welfare vehicle rental companies, so refer to that article to ensure smooth travel after flying with a wheelchair.

Reference:

7. Eligibility for disability discounts when using airplanes

When using an airplane, the eligibility for disability discounts varies by airline, as summarized below.

While there are no differences in the types of certificates required by each company, there are differences in eligibility based on whether the individual is aged 3 or 12 and over.

Additionally, while one accompanying person is eligible for a discount in all cases, there are differences in conditions based on age, so caution is necessary.

The discount amount also varies, with some airlines like JAL offering a fixed discount, while others like Toki Air offer a fixed amount, and other airlines vary the amount based on seat class and timing.

To receive the discount, you must prepare the relevant disability certificate.

The timing of reservations and cancellation rules also vary by company, so be sure to check carefully before use.

For other services and discounts available with a disability certificate, please refer to the following article.

Reference:

8. For those considering traveling by Shinkansen

This article introduced how to board an airplane and points to note for wheelchair users.

While boarding an airplane may seem daunting, upon investigation, it appears that each company provides