Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact 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 provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the read more year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat 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, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have, it may website be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.

After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the electric wheelchair indoor closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel website with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to website your travels to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.