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10 Things That Everyone Is Misinformed About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

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

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to maneuver in 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 important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact 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 details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you 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 aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.

Depending on your airline, you may 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 to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.


Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.

Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.

Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.

An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your 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 the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact MyMobilityScooters in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.

Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.