10 Healthy Habits For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.

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 regulations for air travel.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard 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 that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. 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 aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.

Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.

Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.

Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.

Once you are at the airport the Compact Electric Chair - Drive Devilbiss Titan AXS wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to save money.

A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

The idea of using an lightweight electric wheelchair wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board 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 a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.

After your wheelchair has been 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 extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.