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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential 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 that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited, and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an portable electric wheelchairs wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample 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 for damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.

Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all terrain wheelchair electric controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.

When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.

A representative from the airline 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 wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.

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