Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved MALISA Electric Wheelchair: Portable All Terrain Lightweight wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate 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 crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright 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 phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue 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 especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.

Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel 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 and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.

After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your Foldable Electric Wheelchair for Adults And Seniors - Auto Recline wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.

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