Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Be sure to have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that 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 ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power powerchair wheelchair, visit the next post, or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These invacare electric wheelchair chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If possible be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is possible.

Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric lightweight wheelchair electric will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.

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, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheel chairs wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.