Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.

Be sure to have all terrain electric wheelchair of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchair chair wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved transportable electric wheelchair wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport the small electric wheelchair for indoors uk (read the full info here) wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience 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 airplane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.