Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.

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

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

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

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter 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 ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.

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 phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider website bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

After the plane has landed in the air, a website representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.

Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with read more your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.