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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it. Make sure you have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with “air safe” batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel. What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines? Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators. Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times. Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation. United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require 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 to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair 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 comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together 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 to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is placed upright. Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel. It is recommended to arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair. Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness. Check-In For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable. 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 right direction, no matter if 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 an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey. Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to 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. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly. Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses. After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate. It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides. Check-Out Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter could 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 ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions. Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case. When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs. On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide electric wheelchair for handicapped of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations. Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.