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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

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

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number, and 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 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 and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following 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'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.

Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have 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 whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If https://www.mymobilityscooters.uk/categories/electric-powered-wheelchairs transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.