Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

electric powered wheelchair wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. 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 those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.

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

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.

Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are functioning properly.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and mymobilityscooters your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.

When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.

After 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 extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.