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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.





Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, 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 to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.

Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. electric powered wheelchair is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to 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 before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between places.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.