Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.

Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

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

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If possible be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative prior to 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 ticket counter or at the gate. website In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.

Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any mobility wheelchairs electric detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.

Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great check here benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.

A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when 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 in either 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 the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your read more wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The website U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.