10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.

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

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

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

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. But, with My Mobility Scooters and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.

Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.

Depending on the type of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.


When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid costly expenses.

A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.

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Pub: 28 Apr 2024 21:59 UTC

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