20 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Websites That Are Taking The Internet By Storm

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.

Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.

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

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.

Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.

Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. 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 take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make website sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.