Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.

Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.

Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for lightweight wheelchair electric you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.

Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the model of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.

Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline 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 as close to the airplane door as is possible in either 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 enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.

Get to the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.

If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on 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 fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.