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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair There are several things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle 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 meet the regulations for air travel. What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair? Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators. Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before 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 of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation. United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter. Safety Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright. Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel. You should arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair. Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness. Check-In If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible. Contact 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 best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey. Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly. Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses. When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate. Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords. Check-Out Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to ask any questions. Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for 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 fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected. When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs. On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If portable electric wheelchairs transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations. When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you 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. Notify the airline immediately.