Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Make sure you have all terrain electric wheelchair this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "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 stowed safely on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted 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 up to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric motor wheel chair scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric powered wheelchair wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair near me chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.

When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will 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 who suffer from mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding cheap power chairs chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize 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 along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.