Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

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

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

cheap electric wheelchair wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel 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 if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist 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. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with your power wheelchair with electric motor. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. 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, you should try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.