Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Be sure to have all of this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.

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

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best power chair method to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all terrain electric wheelchair uk controls function before leaving for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchairs for sale wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric wheelchair to buy chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.

A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's 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 inquire about their policy and ask any questions.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to 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's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.

If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other 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 prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.