Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding 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 has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. 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 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 gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also electric light weight wheelchair an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.

When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.

Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.

Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.