Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.

Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will 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 navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.

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

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for 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 preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat check here whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. website The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After check here disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.

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

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.