Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved modern electric wheelchair wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put 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 would include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

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

Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior Electric wheelchairs to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.

A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting 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 remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between various locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.