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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In small electric wheelchairs , it's advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest 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 proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to 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 your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.





Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

Upon arriving at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.