Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.

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

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

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

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.

Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.

Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your wheelchair lightweight electric power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be 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 wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's website guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you get more info own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be read more storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring website to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.