Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Be sure to have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable.

Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.

Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take lightweight power chairs off any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting 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 ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.