Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. 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.

Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like 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 lifts.

Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.

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

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

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. They can be folded in a compact manner 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. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as attendant controlled electric wheelchair it allows them to save power chairs for outdoors money.

A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either 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 guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their read more policy and ask any questions.

Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.

When you read more arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you are heavy duty electric wheelchair transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to 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 along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.