What Experts Say You Should Be Able To

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your power chair near me chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

light weight electric wheelchair wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for 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 representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should 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 on your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled 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 with stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair to buy wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.

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 regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are functioning properly.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding Power Chairs for handicapped chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, 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 an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.