Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet them. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.

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

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is possible.

Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.

An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy wheelchair lightweight electric the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.

Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.