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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. electric mobility devices can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

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

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to 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

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.

Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out





Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it for travel. Certain 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 your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.

Upon arriving at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.