Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Be sure to have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair to buy wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These lightweight electric wheelchair chairs electric are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for longer than an hour, because 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. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method 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 gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.

Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.

Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.

A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric wheelchair Power chair chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.