Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.

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

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get around easily With our Foldable Electric Wheelchair - Lightweight Mobility Aid scooter! (www.mymobilityscooters.uk) details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is feasible.

Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.

Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.

When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.

A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into 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 close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a protective case.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.