Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric wheelchair to buy scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility wheelchair electric scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.

Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best electric wheelchair uk method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.

Based on the power chair amazon chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your handicap chair electric. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between places.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.