Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.

Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.

Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.

A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at electric wheelchairs lightweight the ticket counter travel electric wheelchair or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask get more info the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount website of times your equipment is moved between places.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport cheap power chairs and immediately inform the airline.