Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact 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 current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with 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 carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with 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 help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.

Based check here on the model of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.

After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.

When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.