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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it. Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has “air safe” batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations. What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair? Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators. Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times. Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation. United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter. Safety Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position. Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel. It is recommended to 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 arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair. Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness. Check-In For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations. Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip. Depending on your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport. Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses. When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate. Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers. Check-Out Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions. Many airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. electric wheelchair brands require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe. Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs. When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations. After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.