Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.

Be sure to have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. 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, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling cost of electric wheelchair your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric Power chairs for sale wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.

Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.

Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.

Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it helps them save money.

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

It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. 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 offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric wheelchair uk or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.

Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.