Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check in one 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 representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled website departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for check here the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is read more at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.

Depending on the kind here of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can save money.

An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable website in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.