Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible click here be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.

Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the 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 take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.