Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely 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. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility wheelchair electric wheelchair wheels (go!!) scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line 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 latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or 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 that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off road electric wheelchair any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the outdoor electric wheelchair chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.