Wheelchairs & Handicapped Electric Scooters On Flights To Vietnam

I don't know but I would check for airline rules regarding lithium ion batteries if your chair uses those

I never had to bring one, but I have seen foldable wheelchairs on flights.    The stewards generally take them after the person is seated and stow them somewhere in front.   I don't think they would have enough room to stow one of those electric scooter types so I expect it would have to go in baggage.  Fred has the right idea.   Just contact the airline.

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people [b]for their personal experience[

Who said anything about reading regulations?  All you have to do is call the toll-free information number that is on any airline website.  In fact that would be a good idea no matter what else you may hear, as different airlines may have different policies.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

THIGV wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people [b]for their personal experience[

Who said anything about reading regulations?  All you have to do is call the toll-free information number that is on any airline website.  In fact that would be a good idea no matter what else you may hear, as different airlines may have different policies.

Being retired from a major airline what was just said is exactly correct. Each airline has their own way of handling situations. Also each crew has some discretion as to handling things like wheelchairs. Wide body aircraft have more storage space and narrow body aircraft have little storage.
Call the airline you choose to fly with for the real answer.

Andy Wright Thailand YouTube channel.  It very small but he has travels a lot obviously to Thailand.  He talks all about the battery wheelchair issues and has videos of him going through airports.  Very big accessibly person.  You can form your own opinions about him personally  but he has had to deal with these issues all his life.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Dr. House will be able to assist with your sarcasm, or at least hone your skills.
I prescribe 2 episodes per day until the first series is empty.

If you need lesson in how to be vicious, you need help from a nasty little Tucker

Fred wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Dr. House will be able to assist with your sarcasm, or at least hone your skills.
I prescribe 2 episodes per day until the first series is empty.

If you need lesson in how to be vicious, you need help from a nasty little Tucker

Dr. House  .. best tv show ever

THIGV wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people [b]for their personal experience[

Who said anything about reading regulations?  All you have to do is call the toll-free information number that is on any airline website.  In fact that would be a good idea no matter what else you may hear, as different airlines may have different policies.

Because you make the assumption that I need more information than what I asked for.

I didn't ask for toll free numbers.

I didn't ask for government or airline information.

I didn't ask for any of that because, guess what?

I have been exhaustively researching this subject already, and NOW I'm interested in hearing real-life stories from people who have brought their power mobility devices on international flights to Việt Nam.

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

pogiwayne wrote:

THIGV wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people [b]for their personal experience[

Who said anything about reading regulations?  All you have to do is call the toll-free information number that is on any airline website.  In fact that would be a good idea no matter what else you may hear, as different airlines may have different policies.

Being retired from a major airline what was just said is exactly correct. Each airline has their own way of handling situations. Also each crew has some discretion as to handling things like wheelchairs. Wide body aircraft have more storage space and narrow body aircraft have little storage.
Call the airline you choose to fly with for the real answer.

I'd like to hear people's personal experiences first if at all possible.

That information will help me decide which airline I want to use.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

THIGV wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people [b]for their personal experience[

Who said anything about reading regulations?  All you have to do is call the toll-free information number that is on any airline website.  In fact that would be a good idea no matter what else you may hear, as different airlines may have different policies.

Because you make the assumption that I need more information than what I asked for.

I didn't ask for toll free numbers.

I didn't ask for government or airline information.

I didn't ask for any of that because, guess what?

I have been exhaustively researching this subject already, and NOW I'm interested in hearing real-life stories from people who have brought their power mobility devices on international flights to Việt Nam.

Good luck with that. There are dedicated sites that give information and stories about the horror stories of wheelchair travel but you have already read all of those so I won't bother to post a link.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Leading out with this information would probably have been a good idea.
As far as the wheelchair goes as I have said before just check with your chosen airline concerning their policy. Vietnam Air's nonstop from the west coast would be my choice if I was in your situation. Also treatment in business/firstclass is much better for disabled individuals.
Good luck with your travels. I feel for you.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Airlines regulations globally all follow IATA rules for hazardous cargo. The difference comes for carriers at least batteries contained within like a laptop or phone verses loose cells -ie a box of individual Li-on batteries which present s bigger risk. Providing you book and notify the airline in advance I don't see there being s problem. As you said, medical equipment is normally exempt or given special dispensation.  Worst case they will swap you to a manual chair at the airport and stow your electric chair in the hold. Airlines all vary in the permissable quantity (by weight, total capacity etc) they allow on the flights, from memory specialist carriers such as DHL it's 50kgs before a DGSA needs to be involved. Airlines, at least passenger carrying ones is upto 100 kgs per flight (total).

Book early, tell the airline of the you're requirements and give them the battery pack specifics and you'll be fine. The earlier you get it the less chance of being bumped to another flight.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Having travelled with a broken leg once here is my personel story,,,,
turned up to check in with a folddown chair they assisted me onto a electric buggy took me through all gates and handed my docs over for me as i sat there, got to gate, got off electric buggy sat on wheel chair,, they called for any assisted pass to come up,, they then pushed me on to the plane helped me into seat put me in the first row with more leg room (not that i need it - beat you to it Jigs) then helped me off the seat back on to chair pushed me all the way out of terminal assiting me along the way with any thing. when you book your tickets you can put a comment or select you need assistance and why.
100% you will get help and they go out their way to make it easy for you.
As for the battery part i have no idea,,, however if you can take it in the hold they will get you one of their wheel chairs and do the same thing as ive just said.

pogiwayne wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

...Vietnam Air's nonstop from the west coast would be my choice if I was in your situation. Also treatment in business/firstclass is much better for disabled individuals.
Good luck with your travels. I feel for you.

Thanks very much for your kind sympathies.

I definitely agree: Vietnam Airlines non-stop would be my first choice, and definitely business class, as even without this foot problem developing, I'd already stopped flying long haul in coach.

My legs just can't survive that stress anymore.

In 2018 I flew Delta One from Seattle to Seoul and VN Air First Class (lie-flat seat) to Hà Nội.

(All of that was using Delta miles, booking best business class available; no way could I have gotten the same booking if I'd searched for First Class)

Vietnam Airlines' service and facilities were far superior to Delta One.

However, my favorite is now Singapore Air, and I'd maybe do a connection through Singapore airport if the price were competitive.

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Airlines regulations globally all follow IATA rules for hazardous cargo. The difference comes for carriers at least batteries contained within like a laptop or phone verses loose cells -ie a box of individual Li-on batteries which present s bigger risk. Providing you book and notify the airline in advance I don't see there being s problem. As you said, medical equipment is normally exempt or given special dispensation.  Worst case they will swap you to a manual chair at the airport and stow your electric chair in the hold. Airlines all vary in the permissable quantity (by weight, total capacity etc) they allow on the flights, from memory specialist carriers such as DHL it's 50kgs before a DGSA needs to be involved. Airlines, at least passenger carrying ones is upto 100 kgs per flight (total).

Book early, tell the airline of the you're requirements and give them the battery pack specifics and you'll be fine. The earlier you get it the less chance of being bumped to another flight.

Thanks for all that.

I wouldn't have any problem letting them take the electric mobility chair from me and giving me wheelchair assistance.

I've been watching a lot of videos about the lighter weight chairs that fold up.

Most of them advertise that the lithium battery pack pops right out easily.

Do you think they would want to take the entire thing into the plane hold or pop the battery and have me carry that in the plane cabin?

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Airlines regulations globally all follow IATA rules for hazardous cargo. The difference comes for carriers at least batteries contained within like a laptop or phone verses loose cells -ie a box of individual Li-on batteries which present s bigger risk. Providing you book and notify the airline in advance I don't see there being s problem. As you said, medical equipment is normally exempt or given special dispensation.  Worst case they will swap you to a manual chair at the airport and stow your electric chair in the hold. Airlines all vary in the permissable quantity (by weight, total capacity etc) they allow on the flights, from memory specialist carriers such as DHL it's 50kgs before a DGSA needs to be involved. Airlines, at least passenger carrying ones is upto 100 kgs per flight (total).

Book early, tell the airline of the you're requirements and give them the battery pack specifics and you'll be fine. The earlier you get it the less chance of being bumped to another flight.

Thanks for all that.

I wouldn't have any problem letting them take the electric mobility chair from me and giving me wheelchair assistance.

I've been watching a lot of videos about the lighter weight chairs that fold up.

Most of them advertise that the lithium battery pack pops right out easily.

Do you think they would want to take the entire thing into the plane hold or pop the battery and have me carry that in the plane cabin?

Yes for sure the whole chair would be placed in the hold - safer to to that and keep the chair in one piece rather than start taking batteries off.

Vietnam airlines also has a program called option town where upgrades are applied for subject to availability for less

I have used both premium economy and business class. In my view there is more space in premium economy than business. Those business pods are very nice but feel a little claustrophobic to me.

If you have the choice when booking the A350 is a .ore relaxing experience than the 787, but beggars can't always be choosers

Andybris2020 wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

Ok I'll take the bait.. asking for yourself (highly unlikely) or a friend?

Generally lithium ion batteries a are excluded unless they are in your hand luggage - clearly not going to happen with an electric wheelchair.

Legally based on IATA safety regulations lithium ion battery packs used specifically to power a device -i custom battery pack is permitted provided it is in good condition, holds charge (dead cells are more dangerous) you cannot dangle a power bank from a key chain flash light and argue it's part of the equipment

Ultimately the captain of the aircraft has final say period.. if he is not happy it doesn't fly. In the case if essential equipment on health grounds provided you notify the airline before you fly it will be accepted, but due to its size will have go go in the cargo hold.

The only time it is likely to be rejected other than due to defects and safety will be on incompatible ADR instances.

Asking for me.

Shortly after I returned to The States, I was diagnosed with a degenerative condition in both feet--"Charcot Foot"--much more severe in the right foot, where I had thought I was simply developing an oversized callus on the sole of my foot.

I've now been fitted with a prosthetic boot to offload weight from my foot.

I can walk with it for very short distances but the veterans administration has just issued me a manual folding wheelchair and set an appointment in January to be issued a medically necessary powered mobility device (scooter); hopefully the type that can fold up when not being used.

The information you've shared about batteries confirms what I'd discovered in my research; Thanks!

My device will definitely be designated as being medically necessary for my condition (in writing, from my veterans administration physician) because my manual wheelchair has limitations as to when (under what circumstances/conditions) I can effectively use it.

This guy (not an official government source) mentioned that a medically necessary powered scooter/chair with lithium batteries will likely be approved if (as you say) they are not defective AND are less than 300 amps total.

However he makes it clear that international flights may not follow all US regulations.

Having travelled with a broken leg once here is my personel story,,,,
turned up to check in with a folddown chair they assisted me onto a electric buggy took me through all gates and handed my docs over for me as i sat there, got to gate, got off electric buggy sat on wheel chair,, they called for any assisted pass to come up,, they then pushed me on to the plane helped me into seat put me in the first row with more leg room (not that i need it - beat you to it Jigs) then helped me off the seat back on to chair pushed me all the way out of terminal assiting me along the way with any thing. when you book your tickets you can put a comment or select you need assistance and why.
100% you will get help and they go out their way to make it easy for you.
As for the battery part i have no idea,,, however if you can take it in the hold they will get you one of their wheel chairs and do the same thing as ive just said.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

I've already been using wheelchairs at airports for a number of years now (can't do prolonged standing after 2 knee replacements) and fortunately my experience has been generally good, as was yours.

I still don't know for sure if I can get a fold-down chair from the veterans administration, or if they only have one of the larger fixed chairs to give to everyone.

That used to be the way of the VA healthcare system, but they are starting to be a little more flexible according to the individual needs of veterans.

Besides, the fold-down chairs are listing at much less expensive prices, so I'm hoping the VA will lean in that direction.

As I think I already mentioned I've been preliminarily approved, so my appointment on January 4th is supposed to be the time where my individual chair is actually ordered for me.

Hoping for the best.

And thanks to everybody who's provided input in this thread.

Once I've actually made the trip I'll probably come back here and update with my personal experience, for the sake of the casual reader who finds this thread in Google search.

Jlgarbutt wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Jlgarbutt wrote:

Airlines regulations globally all follow IATA rules for hazardous cargo. The difference comes for carriers at least batteries contained within like a laptop or phone verses loose cells -ie a box of individual Li-on batteries which present s bigger risk. Providing you book and notify the airline in advance I don't see there being s problem. As you said, medical equipment is normally exempt or given special dispensation.  Worst case they will swap you to a manual chair at the airport and stow your electric chair in the hold. Airlines all vary in the permissable quantity (by weight, total capacity etc) they allow on the flights, from memory specialist carriers such as DHL it's 50kgs before a DGSA needs to be involved. Airlines, at least passenger carrying ones is upto 100 kgs per flight (total).

Book early, tell the airline of the you're requirements and give them the battery pack specifics and you'll be fine. The earlier you get it the less chance of being bumped to another flight.

Thanks for all that.

I wouldn't have any problem letting them take the electric mobility chair from me and giving me wheelchair assistance.

I've been watching a lot of videos about the lighter weight chairs that fold up.

Most of them advertise that the lithium battery pack pops right out easily.

Do you think they would want to take the entire thing into the plane hold or pop the battery and have me carry that in the plane cabin?

Yes for sure the whole chair would be placed in the hold - safer to to that and keep the chair in one piece rather than start taking batteries off.

Vietnam airlines also has a program called option town where upgrades are applied for subject to availability for less

I have used both premium economy and business class. In my view there is more space in premium economy than business. Those business pods are very nice but feel a little claustrophobic to me.

If you have the choice when booking the A350 is a .ore relaxing experience than the 787, but beggars can't always be choosers

That's great info!

Thanks for that.

I've never tried premium economy on Vietnam Airlines.

Are you comparing premium economy to normal business class seats on Vietnam airlines domestic flights, or just in comparison to the pods with lie flat seats on International routes?

I think you're right in that there is a slight feeling of being trapped inside one of those pods, but on the Long haul of an international flight, I really do have to get off of my feet and stretch out my legs as much as possible.

It's not just a discomfort issue, but I have mild congestive heart failure, with a symptom that my legs and feet can easily swell up if I'm not really careful wearing medical support hose and avoiding prolonged dangling of my legs from a seated position.

Of course the big danger there being the development of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) along with increased pain if my legs start swelling due to dependent edema.

So it's best for me to use one of those seats/pods for international flights, but I would be interested in checking out premium economy for a domestic flight in Vietnam

Update:

I had my appointment with a mobility device specialist at the VA, and I was allowed to choose the model that best meets my personal needs from three categories (due for delivery later this month):

1. Lightweight "foldable" units that, when collapsed, take up the space of a large suitcase and can be rolled on back wheels.

Too easy to tip over for me.

Those do have lithium batteries.

2. Full-sized electric wheelchairs that don't collapse or easily disassemble/reassemble.

Way to much for my needs, currently...

3. Middleweight models which disassemble/reassemble like Legos.

I chose this 3-wheel model which is surprisingly stable:

goldentechDOTcom/scooters/medium-portable-scooters/literider-3-wheel/

The 4-wheel model wouldn't accommodate my prosthetic boot well.

It uses a "12V 22AH Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery" which I'll specifically ask the airline about, once I'm in ticket-buying mode.

The power charging cord has a dual voltage transformer, so it should work in Vietnam.

It can be disassembled into six separate pieces, including the two lightweight baskets, the seat, the power axle, the battery pack and the frame including folding steering column.

So I will also be asking the airline if they will keep it in one piece in the cargo hold or be disassembling it and reassembling it later.

I usually don't feel really comfortable about checking in luggage at the gate when required, but in this case I would probably feel more secure being able to use the scooter to get to the gate, and then to have one dedicated airline/airport employee take it from there.

I'm guessing my partner/GF in Quảng Ngãi is going to want to take it for a spin...

Just to toss in a thought

Are the wheels big enough? I have no idea what your roads are like but that would be of limited use on Indonesian roads

Can you buy them in Vietnam? These things are almost all made in China anyway and I know they are available in Indonesia. Maybe they are also sold in Vietnam.

Fred wrote:

Just to toss in a thought

Are the wheels big enough? I have no idea what your roads are like but that would be of limited use on Indonesian roads

Can you buy them in Vietnam? These things are almost all made in China anyway and I know they are available in Indonesia. Maybe they are also sold in Vietnam.

It's absolutely no risk to me to take a totally free mobility device to Southeast Asia and see if it survives.

I can look into purchasing one in Vietnam if this one can't handle my everyday use of it.

Fred wrote:

Just to toss in a thought ....Can you buy them in Vietnam?

This seems like an excellent and practical suggestion.   Leave it with a friend who can charge it up once in a while and have another one in Vietnam (with bigger tires as Fred suggests  )  If you need to travel, you can just avail yourself of the airlines' wheelchair service from the curb right up to boarding.   I have a friend who does this due to legitimate knee problems and I have noticed when traveling with her that these wheelchair porters can cut the check-in lines and also have special routes and semi-secret elevators to get you to the gate faster.

You guys are hilarious 🤣

THIGV wrote:

Fred wrote:

Just to toss in a thought ....Can you buy them in Vietnam?

This seems like an excellent and practical suggestion...

These wheels (my model) are the best I could find, from the brands contracting with the Veterans Administration, in the middleweight class of chairs (see my other note).

In order to get larger wheels I would need to choose a full-size electric wheelchair that does not disassemble/reassemble.

The idea of leaving a free chair behind in the USA and then paying good money for a different model that might not be necessary is not my way of thinking.

Besides, I've been on the streets and roads which I'll be using again in Vietnam, even out at my partner's family's farm out in rural Quảng Ngãi, and I have reasonable confidence that this model will meet my needs for a reasonable amount of time until I need new wheels due to normal wear & tear.

THIGV wrote:

JIf you need to travel, you can just avail yourself of the airlines' wheelchair service from the curb right up to boarding.   I have a friend who does this due to legitimate knee problems and I have noticed when traveling with her that these wheelchair porters can cut the check-in lines and also have special routes and semi-secret elevators to get you to the gate faster.

That happened with my mother. Short cuts and special service at airports that saved her a lot of messing around.

As for the FREE chair - That makes a difference to everything

Fred wrote:

THIGV wrote:

JIf you need to travel, you can just avail yourself of the airlines' wheelchair service from the curb right up to boarding.   I have a friend who does this due to legitimate knee problems and I have noticed when traveling with her that these wheelchair porters can cut the check-in lines and also have special routes and semi-secret elevators to get you to the gate faster.

That happened with my mother. Short cuts and special service at airports that saved her a lot of messing around.

As for the FREE chair - That makes a difference to everything

I will likely have assistance anyway since I'll be flying business class and my carry-on luggage and medication case and CPAP breathing machine case probably won't fit on my scooter easily.

That might be a reason for them wanting to check my scooter when I check in, not at the gate.

Even if they tell me I can't have assistance, I will be in the shorter security check-in line for business class.

Anyway, all of that will probably depend upon the airline I ultimately choose.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Surely irony is banned under the Forum's code of acceptable rants, fuming and rumination?

Maxep wrote:

Surely irony is banned under the Forum's code of acceptable rants, fuming and rumination?

I don't know what you mean

Maxep wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Surely irony is banned under the Forum's code of acceptable rants, fuming and rumination?

Sarcasm is actively encouraged.

Maxep wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Why didn't I check all of the airline regulations and read everything I could on the internet before I posted here and asked people for their personal experience?

Surely irony is banned under the Forum's code of acceptable rants, fuming and rumination?

Fred wrote:

Maxep wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Oh my gosh!

Research the topic!

Why didn't I think of that???

Surely irony is banned under the Forum's code of acceptable rants, fuming and rumination?

Sarcasm is actively encouraged.

Thanks everyone for the good laugh this morning.

Neither sarcasm nor irony is acceptable when it stoops to the level of ad hominem attack.

I believe I avoided that in this instance and still stayed on topic as the OP.

Cheers!

I worked for 22 years in the medical mobility industry, in Canada (Invacare, Pride etc).
Airlines will accept battery powered mobility devices, provided they are powered by non-spillable deep cycle gel acid batteries, that both batteries are disconnected from the device (electrically disconnected, not removed), and that the controls, be they joystick, head-rest controlls, sip-and-puff devices are either removed or wrapped securely so as to not impede the baggage handlers duties. All airlines are familiar with these devices, and are competent in loading, immobilizing, and securing during transport.

We have checked with relevant section  would like to inform you that your mobility scooter can not be accepted as hand baggages or  checked baggages on our flight due to the battery is over allowance power rating.
We will reserved Wheelchair Cabin for you to help you moving from our check-in counter to the airplane and help you moving on the airplane on your flytime. When you arrive Tan Son Nhat Airport, we will help you to pick up your luggages.
Your scooter may be freight by cargo. You can contact with some air cargo agent in the United State to request for freighting your scooter. Furthermore, we are checking with our Branch in the US and will inform you when we received response from them. 
You can also contact with our Branch in US by phone or email: