Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are a few things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

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

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered Alton Mobility WOLF Lightweight Heavy Duty Wheelchair devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.

Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as 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.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.

Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored 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 available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.

When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.

It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for website those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to Pride i-Go: The Ultimate Folding Power Chair plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.