Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed 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. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled 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 it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and 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. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and electric scooter disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Speak to 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, whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as Compact WISGING Electric Wheelchair for Adults - Lightweight wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.

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

If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, electric scooter such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.

When your wheelchair is loaded 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 extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.