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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.

Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.

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

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you 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 scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric motor wheel chair wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured 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 would include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times 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 to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.

Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.

Depending on the kind of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are working properly.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a low cost electric wheelchair (read this post from Willysforsale) to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chairs chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your cheap electric wheelchair wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documents you need 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 avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have 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 separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.