Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is 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 roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly 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 can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is important electric powered wheelchairs for sale to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.

Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.