Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.

Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

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

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist read more you in stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat, small electric wheelchairs so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel here with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is possible.

Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.

Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them save money.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from click here your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.

Get to the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, here book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.