5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons Learned From Professionals

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.

Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs for sale wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used 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 checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask 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 airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date 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 to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.

Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like 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.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.

Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.

Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.

Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.

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

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.

On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between various locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.