Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of 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 unintentional activation.

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

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is 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 travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to 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 achievable with 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 guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your journey.

Based on the model of power chair you have It may 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 information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.

When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is check here an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that get more info you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, more info with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.