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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure 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 ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

handicapped electric wheelchair will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.





United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. 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 planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered 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 way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the model of 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 on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.

When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway 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 guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between various locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.