Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If possible, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your website seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.

Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should mobility wheelchairs electric also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it website is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board check here the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your electric light weight wheelchair wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as 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.

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.