Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.

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

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding 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. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.

Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the model of your power chair click here It could be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.

Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or the gate.

Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.

Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the small electric wheel chair assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process get more info and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or get more info gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it website prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.