10 Strategies To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy 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 limited and operated 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 be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and 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 preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is placed upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.

Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling using an approved airline best power chair electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable.

Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.

Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.

When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.

When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.

Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for 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 your airline's wheelchair policies.

On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging 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. Inform the airline immediately.