Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance for 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 they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They 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 disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might 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 two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the check here airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored cheap power chairs for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you own It could be required get more info to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've lightest electric wheelchair prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble 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 departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.

Upon get more info arriving at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.