Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. 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 all these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you 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 ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important 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. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request 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 that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Black Lightweight Electric Wheelchair for Travel Seniors Wheelchairs electric for sale that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as 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 in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.

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 method to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.

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 the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.