Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. 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 navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for electric power chairs for sale damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces 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. Air travel with a power chair is possible with electric wheelchair indoor the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.

Based on the model of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can save money.

After the plane lightweight electric wheelchair uk has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide 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 closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking here your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment website is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.