Astra Transport Chair 19" Aluminum 250lb Wt-Cap. w/ Nylon Seat

The Proactive Medical ASTRA Aluminum Transport Wheelchair is the lighter version of the ASTRA line — 19 lbs on an aluminum frame, saving 7–9 lbs over the steel model. Same back-release hinge for flat fold-down storage, tool-free swing-away composite footrests with heel loops, push-to-lock rear wheel locks, nylon seat straps, and seat belt. Full-length padded armrests (13") provide extended lateral support compared to the steel model's desk-length arms. Available in Black or Blue. 19" seat only. 250 lb capacity. HCPCS E1038. 3-year limited warranty on frame. FSA eligible.

Proactive Medical ASTRA Aluminum Transport Wheelchair — 19 lbs, Full-Length Arms, Black or Blue

The ASTRA Aluminum brings the same practical design features as the ASTRA Steel — back-release hinge, tool-free footrests with heel loops, nylon seat straps, push-to-lock wheel locks — at 7–9 lbs lighter thanks to the aluminum frame construction. For caregivers who lift the chair frequently, that weight difference is felt every single time.

The arm style is notably different from the steel model: the aluminum version has full-length arms (13") rather than desk-length (9"). Full-length arms extend further toward the front of the seat, providing more consistent lateral support along the full length of the user's forearm and better stability during seated positioning. Available in Black or Blue aluminum frame — both with black nylon upholstery.

Note: The ASTRA Aluminum is available in 19" seat width only. For a 17" narrow seat, the ASTRA Steel is the only ASTRA option.

Key Features

• Lightweight aluminum frame — 19 lbs (7–9 lbs lighter than ASTRA Steel)
• Full-length padded armrests (13") — extended lateral support vs. desk-length style
• Back-release hinge — back folds flat via lever for compact storage and transport
• Flared handles for comfortable caregiver grip
• Padded black nylon upholstery — comfortable, lightweight, easy to clean
• Nylon seat straps — built-in for easy one-hand chair lifting
• Tool-free swing-away composite footrests with heel loops
• 8" × 1" solid rubber composite casters front and rear — maintenance-free
• Push-to-lock rear wheel locks
• Seat belt included
• 19" W × 16" D seat
• Folded width: 13"
• Overall open width: 21"
• 250 lb weight capacity
• HCPCS E1038
• 3-Year Limited Warranty (side frame and cross members)
• Available in Black or Blue frame
• FSA eligible

ASTRA Steel vs. ASTRA Aluminum — Which Is Right?

Who Is the ASTRA Aluminum Best For?

• Caregivers who lift the chair frequently and want the lightest ASTRA at 19 lbs
• Users who prefer full-length arm support over desk-length arms
• Users who want a Black or Blue color option instead of silver vein
• Average-sized users who fit the standard 19" seat width
• Buyers who want aluminum durability at this price point with a 3-year frame warranty

How to Size the ASTRA Aluminum Transport Wheelchair

1. Confirm Weight Capacity

   The ASTRA Aluminum supports up to 250 lbs. For users between 250–300 lbs, consider the Drive ATC (300 lb) or Nova 329 (300 lb) as alternatives. For users above 300 lbs, a heavy-duty or bariatric transport chair is required.

2. Confirm Seat Width

   The ASTRA Aluminum is available in 19" seat width only. Measure the user's widest hip point while seated and add 1"–2" clearance. The 19" seat suits users with hip widths up to approximately 17". For users needing a 17" narrow seat, the ASTRA Steel (17" option) is the only ASTRA alternative.

3. Assess Arm Length Preference

   The ASTRA Aluminum has full-length arms (13") vs. desk-length (9") on the steel version. Full-length arms extend nearly to the front of the seat, providing lateral support along the full forearm length — preferred for users who lean on the armrests during seated activities or need consistent lateral stability. Desk-length arms allow the user to roll up to a table or desk surface without the armrest blocking the edge — preferred for users who frequently use the chair at meals or work surfaces.

4. Measure Seat-to-Floor Height

   Measure from the back of the knee to the floor with the user seated and feet flat. The ASTRA Aluminum seat height is 19". The tool-free swing-away footrests adjust for different leg lengths. For shorter users, confirm the lowest footrest position is still comfortable.

5. Check Storage and Lift Logistics

   At 19 lbs the aluminum model is significantly easier for most caregivers to lift solo vs. the 26.5–28.5 lb steel. Both fold to the same 13" folded width. The built-in nylon seat straps make the lift even easier — grab the strap and the chair lifts cleanly in one hand for most users at this weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the ASTRA Aluminum and ASTRA Steel?

The two ASTRA models share the same core design — back-release hinge, tool-free footrests with heel loops, nylon seat straps, push-to-lock wheel locks, seat belt, and 3-year frame warranty. The key differences: the aluminum model is 19 lbs vs. 26.5–28.5 lbs for steel (a meaningful weight reduction for caregivers); the aluminum has full-length 13" arms vs. desk-length 9" on the steel; the aluminum only comes in 19" seat width while the steel offers 17" or 19"; and the aluminum comes in Black or Blue vs. the steel's silver vein finish.

What is the difference between full-length and desk-length armrests?

Full-length armrests (13" on the ASTRA Aluminum) extend from behind the user's hip nearly to the front edge of the seat, providing consistent lateral support along most of the forearm and elbow. Desk-length armrests (9" on the ASTRA Steel) are shorter — they don't extend to the front of the seat, which creates a gap at the front that allows the wheelchair to slide under a table, desk, or countertop. Choose full-length if continuous arm support is the priority; choose desk-length if rolling close to a surface is frequently needed.

Why is aluminum preferred over steel for frequent lifting?

The ASTRA Aluminum weighs 19 lbs — approximately 7–9 lbs less than the ASTRA Steel. For a caregiver who loads the chair into a car trunk twice a day, that's 14–18 fewer pounds lifted per day. Over weeks and months of daily use, this cumulative weight reduction meaningfully reduces caregiver fatigue and injury risk. For caregivers with limited strength, back concerns, or who transport the chair solo regularly, the aluminum model is the better long-term choice.

Does this chair have hand brakes for use on inclines?

No. The ASTRA Aluminum has push-to-lock rear wheel locks for stationary parking but no attendant hand brakes. For use on inclines, ramps, or terrain where active braking during movement is needed, the Drive Expedition (12" wheels, loop-lock hand brakes) or Nova Comet 330 (12" wheels, attendant brakes) are more appropriate options.

Are the composite solid rubber wheels truly maintenance-free?

Yes. The 8" × 1" solid rubber composite casters on the ASTRA Aluminum contain no air — there is no pressure to check, no valve to maintain, and no risk of puncture or going flat. They roll smoothly on indoor flooring and light paved outdoor surfaces and require only periodic cleaning. No tools or inflation equipment are ever needed.

What is covered under the 3-year warranty?

The 3-year limited warranty covers the side frames and cross members of the ASTRA Aluminum — the core structural steel components. Upholstery, footrests, wheels, armrests, and other non-structural parts are covered under Proactive Medical's standard parts warranty. For warranty service, retain your purchase receipt and contact Proactive Medical directly with the product details and date of purchase.