How To Tell If You're Prepared For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on 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 ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before 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 airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is 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 examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your trip.

Depending on the model of your power chair, electric light weight wheelchair it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.

Once you arrive 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 to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for 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 your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

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