Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during busy travel periods.

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 a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.

Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric lightweight wheelchair wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with 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 way to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.

Depending on the kind of power chair (try here) you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a bariatric electric wheelchair uk wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair indoor wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.