Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.

Make sure you have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. 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. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system 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-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.

Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If possible be there 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 representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.

Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.

Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.

An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding small electric wheelchairs transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.

Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.