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Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Business
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.

Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and it's first come, first served. 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 safe design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. 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 give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. electric wheelchairs for sale will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.


Check-In

For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling 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 help you figure out the best method to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.

After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.

Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any 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.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.

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