Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure 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?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure 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 mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with wheelchair electric lightweight your power chair is possible.

Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to wheelchair electric scooter the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.

Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you heavy duty electric wheelchairs at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

It might be website difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation electric power chair you may require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between various locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.