Normally provided by both the airlines and the airport, it's vital to have proper airport wheelchairs available to patrons. Whether the fliers are adults or children, having the correct wheelchairs on hand is a service that most patrons expect to have.

Used to get fliers from the check-in area to the terminal, sturdy and reliable airport wheelchairs are a necessity. The last thing you need is for a customer to become stranded due to a shoddy or broken wheelchair. Before you start investigating what types of airport wheelchairs to buy, consider the following:

1. Find manual airport wheelchairs, which are easier for patrons to maneuver than electric.

2. Locate folding electric airport wheelchairs that offer convenience and portability for airlines and airports.

3. Stock up on airport wheelchair accessories in case one of your wheelchairs needs a repair or a patron needs assistance.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find airport wheelchair providers that sell manual-operated versions

Cheaper than electric varieties, manual airport wheelchairs do the job just as well as its counterpart while running quieter. Another benefit is maintenance. You don't need to worry about replacing batteries, and the parts are cheaper to purchase. And, these wheelchairs are foldable; this offers airports convenience as well as a portable option. Sold as conventional wheelchairs, they're constructed with a brace shaped like an X, so the wheelchairs can fold at the center. Make sure that the wheelchair is durable even though it's collapsible.

I recommend: Sort through 1800wheelchair.com and its list of airport wheelchair information. It sells three top-of-the-line airport terminal wheelchairs from which to choose. Guaranteed to ship in no more than five days, check out its site to find out what's best for your facility. SpinLife.com sells a line of wheelchairs called transport wheelchairs. Purchase one of these and you receive free shipping on orders more than $50.

Locate an electric airport wheelchair provider that sells folding models

If you have the money, consider purchasing an electric folding wheelchair. The types that don't fold are very bulky to store; by considering the folding option, you eliminate the storage concern. Electric wheelchairs don't require someone to push the patron, but you need to make sure there's enough battery power to operate these 100-pound powerchairs.

I recommend: Check out Edmond Wheelchair Repair and Supply and its list of electric folding wheelchairs. Scooter Link claims to produce one of the most lightweight electric wheelchair frames on the market. Look through its selection, and if you choose one of its electric folding chairs, you can receive free shipping.

Keep airport wheelchair accessories on hand for patrons to use or for repairs

You never know if a flier has a particular need when using your airport wheelchair. Does he need a seat belt? What about a tray? Or how about a different foot rest? Keep these in your facility for quick additions to the wheelchair. It's also a good idea to have replacement wheels nearby, so you can make a quick change in case your wheelchair has a flat tire.

I recommend: PHC sells several wheelchair accessories that you can use for your airport gear. Specialty Medical Supply provides a comprehensive list of wheelchair accessories, ranging from seat belts to cushions to foot rest pads. The Disability Resource Directory offers an airport wheelchair list for accessories or repair kits. It links listings to many popular wheelchair manufacturers where you can find the parts you need.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Working with specific airlines can ensure that the airport is fully equipped with airport wheelchairs. Oftentimes patrons may call the airline to request a wheelchair instead of contacting the airport directly.