10 Strategies To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

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

Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. website can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.


You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.

When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.