What Experts From The Field Want You To Learn

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair heavy duty wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial during busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an transportable Electric wheelchair scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power chairs for disabled scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.

Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly 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 with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best power chair method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance 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 trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between places.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.