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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair’s dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.

Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with “air safe” batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and it’s first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren’t exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to 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 at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.

Depending on your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it’s helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner’s manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are functioning properly.

When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge 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 can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won’t be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it’s important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you’re traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it’s prepared for travel. electric automatic wheelchair will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor’s letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline’s policy regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they’ll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you’re taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.