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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.

Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

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 stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate 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 however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak 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. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.





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

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.

Talk to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.

An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

A trip with an electric chair can be 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 essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If My Mobility Scooters is damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.