This Is The One Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Trick Every Person Should Know

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of 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 a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel 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. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or 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.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.

Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.

Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.

Once  MyMobilityScooters  arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.

A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.