Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs electric for Sale that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you plan 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 itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.

Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.

Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.

An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

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

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're moving from your small electric wheelchairs wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.