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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it. Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with “air safe” batteries that meet the requirements for air travel. What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines? Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators. Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times. Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation. United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter. Safety Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. 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 depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel. You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair. Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness. Check-In The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable. Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your journey. Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport. Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid costly expenses. A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate. It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. electric lightweight wheelchairs to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel affords. Check-Out Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions. Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe. When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs. When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between various locations. Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.