Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one 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 and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able 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 lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering read more to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it amazon power chairs before transportation. In this case it is helpful to have instructions mobility wheelchair electric for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if website not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies portable power chair regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between various locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of 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.