Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.

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

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

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

Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is more info an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power more info wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.

Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between more info locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.