How to Fly with Kerdom Wheelchair
With the right preparation and understanding of airline policies and FAA regulations, you can enjoy a smooth journey from check-in to arrival. This guide covers every step, from planning ahead to handling your wheelchair on the ground.
1. Know Your Rights Before You Book
Under U.S. law — the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) — airlines cannot discriminate against passengers because of a disability.
This means:
· You cannot be denied boarding solely due to disability.
· Airlines must provide assistance with boarding, deplaning, and connections.
Assistive devices (including wheelchairs) are treated with priority and do not count toward your carry-on baggage limit.
· Even when flying internationally, many foreign carriers follow similar accessibility policies, and it’s wise to confirm before you travel.
2. Plan Ahead — Check Airline Policies
Each airline has its own procedures for handling mobility devices. Before your trip:
· Review airline wheelchair rules on their official site.
· Note requirements for powered wheelchairs, battery types, and documentation.
· Call customer service if anything is unclear — they may answer questions faster than online FAQs.
Commonly, airlines follow FAA-informed guidelines but can add specific restrictions (e.g., advance notice or documentation).
To help you travel worry-free, we have provided links to airline policies for transporting electric wheelchairs below.
3. Prepare Your Chair & Batteries
· Before your trip, check your Kerdom Wheelchair to make sure it doesn’t need any repairs or maintenance. If you notice any issues, reach out to our Service Team at +1(775)572-5299 before your flight. Traveling with a fully operational chair ensures a hassle-free experience.
· FAA guidance for mobility devices with lithium batteries emphasizes:
Batteries must be protected from short-circuit damage.Depending on design, batteries may need to be carried onboard or remain installed if manufacturer design allows.
⚠️ Always check your specific airline’s policy for battery handling.
4. At the Airport — Arrive Early & Self-Identify
Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for security checks and boarding. You can drive your Kerdom wheelchair around the airport! Use it to visit restaurants, restrooms, shops, or simply relax at your gate.
5. Gate Check vs. Cabin Stowage
Powered Wheelchair typically cannot be stored in the cabin due to size and battery safety rules.These chairs will be gate-checked, meaning they are taken at the aircraft door and returned to you at the exit.
✅Always ask ground staff to tag your chair for gate check instead of standard baggage, which reduces handling damage risk.
6. Safety and Handling of Your Chair
When ground staff receive your wheelchair:
· Request they handle it with care and confirm how it will be stowed.
· Safely detach the joystick and carry it onboard as a personal item to prevent damage.
· Take photos before the wheelchair is accepted—this aids in potential claims.
While mishandling occasionally occurs, proactive measures reduce risks and enhance accountability.
7. After the Flight — Retrieval
Airlines are required to return your wheelchair promptly at the aircraft door, unless you choose baggage claim instead.
Check your wheelchair immediately for:
· Missing parts
· Damage
· Battery displacement
If you notice issues, speak with airline ground staff or the Complaints Resolution Official (CRO) at the airport for assistance — you have the right to file claims if necessary.
