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 and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have all terrain electric wheelchairs for adults of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been 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 in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or Electric wheelchair With recline elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time This is particularly important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional 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 an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters 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 personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and 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 during your journey. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

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

Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel 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 or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.

Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.

Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.

Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up 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 explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.