Mobility Scooter Travel on Airplanes
Mobility scooters enable people to regain their independence and go on their own, without the need for anyone else's help. They also help in the rehabilitation of people by allowing them to walk, shop and connect with other people.
Many airlines will allow you to use your scooter to travel for free as long as you notify them and provide all the necessary documentation. They will ask for the model, the make and the battery size.
Check with Your Airline
Airplane travel can be stressful, particularly for those with a limited mobility who must navigate narrow hallways and high curbs. Many airlines are aware of the requirements of people who use mobility scooters and can offer special accommodations. It's always an ideal idea to call your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to ask what steps are necessary to bring your scooter onto the plane.
Most airlines require documentation from your doctor to prove that the scooter is required for medical purposes. Some may also request details regarding your scooter's manufacturer and model as well as battery type. Make sure you take photos of your scooter before you get to the airport to record its condition in the event that it is necessary to file a claim.
Another important step in flying on mobility scooters is to look up the airlines recognized for their handling of mobility scooters. Take a look at reviews from people who have flown using their mobility scooters, and then selecting a low-cost carrier that has a high rating from clients.
It is important to know that you have the option of choosing whether or your scooter will be checked for gate access or if it'll need to go in the cargo hold. It is better to choose the gate-checking option, since your scooter will be returned at the entry point of your plane for any delays or when you arrive at your final destination.
If you have to check your scooter, the employee of the airline will place a tag on it and take it to the cargo area, where it will be put in a bin specifically designed for air travel. Make sure to allow plenty of time to get to the airport, as this will give the airline ample time to make all of the necessary arrangements.
The most commonly-held misconception about mobility scooters is that their lithium or lead-acid batteries aren't able to be transported on aircrafts. These batteries are designed for safe air travel, and the majority of airlines allow them to be used on planes. Some require that batteries are labeled accordingly.
Pack Your Scooter and Batteries
There's a misconception that mobility scooters can't be used on planes, but the reality is quite the opposite. With the right preparation, you can take your scooter on a plane and enjoy your vacation without any restrictions.
The first step to prepare your scooter for travel is choosing one that is easily removed or folded. The smaller models, such as the Pride Go-Go Elite XL or a compact model, such as the iRide mobility Rover is ideal for travel because they are easily disassembled.
You'll also need to consider the kind of battery your scooter needs and the capacity of the battery. You can gauge the power output of a battery by its amp hour rating. Scooter batteries are available in a variety of amp hours and come at various prices. Be sure to select the right one for your requirements.
Certain mobility scooters feature a battery indicator that shows the remaining power. It can also give you an estimate of how long it will take to complete. This is useful in the event that you intend to use your scooter for travel. Another feature that is helpful is a basket that can be mounted on the front or rear of the scooter, so you can store your belongings while on the move.
If you are in the market for a new device to move be sure that it is able to handle outdoor and indoor terrain, as well as moderate inclines. The iRide Rover is designed to tackle all of this and more. It can hold up to 265 pounds and its wheels will never be flat. They are foam-filled, flat-free and non-marking.
The Mojo scooter made by Enhance Mobility is another option. It comes with two batteries built into the frame, and is able to support riders up to 300 lbs. The padded seat is adjustable to fit different body types and be turned. It also features electronic brakes and a speed controller.
Check the documentation on your scooter.
Take into consideration the place and the time you'll make use of the mobility scooter prior to buying. This will help determine the best model that is suited to the requirements of the user. If the scooter is used indoors, it may not be as robust as a outdoor model. It also won't require as much clearance from the ground since many indoor scooters come with three wheels (one in front and two behind).
There is also the issue of the speed at which scooters can travel. There are some indoor scooters that can only be at the speed of a pedestrian and therefore cannot be used on roads. Some people will only need to travel short distances for places like the library or shopping, so a mid-range scooter could be sufficient.
The controls of the scooter can determine the model you select. Some scooters can be controlled by pushing or pulling a lever similar to a bicycle's crank, while others have a delta handlebar that allows users to pull and push using the thumb and fingers.
Another consideration is whether the scooter will need to to fold or disassemble for transport. For instance, some mobility scooters can break down into smaller pieces and can even fit into the trunk of the car. folding travel scooter are permanent and don't have this feature.
Before flying with a mobility device, ensure that it passes the security checks of the airline. It's also recommended to take photographs of your scooter before handing it over to the airline. This will assist you should you need to make a claim due to damaged equipment.
best travel mobility scooter is also crucial to be aware of the class in which the scooter is classified. The class of a scooter will be determined by the weight and whether or not it comes with indicators and lights. A scooter that is class 2 is only allowed to be driven on sidewalks or indoors. However a class 3 scooter is able to be driven on highways, and is equipped with indicators and lights.
Prepare for Check-In
The best method to travel through airports with your mobility scooter is to get TSA Pre-Check, which allows you a short line for the security checkpoint and the chance to get ahead of everyone else. Otherwise, you'll have to wait in a regular line while TSA agents take you and your scooter through their standard drill, check bags metal detectors, body scanners and X-ray machines. They may use a wand with a handle or other tool to inspect the interior of your scooter.
It's a good idea to capture photos of your scooter prior to the time you check it into the airport to ensure you have "before and after" evidence in case your device gets damaged during transport. The photos should contain the model and maker of the scooter, as well as the kind of battery it is using (non spillable lithium-ion is generally suitable for air travel).
If you're planning to carry a spare battery make sure you have it in your carry-on. folding travel scooter airline approved should be non-spillable lithium Ion, and it shouldn't exceed 160 watt hours. This type of battery is considered safe for travel on airlines. Airlines will not charge additional fees for this battery, but crews will examine the batteries and electrical connectors prior allowing you to board.
In certain situations your scooter could need to be disassembled to transport. If this is the case, it's a good idea to attach clear and concise instructions for disassembly from the owner's manual to the scooter. These instructions will help baggage handlers know how to properly stow your scooter in their cargo hold to ensure it arrives in good condition.
A lot of scooters today come with unique accessories for holding canes bags and more, and which can be removed when not in use. These new features make it much easier than ever to pack a scooter for air travel. You can also enjoy your vacation with peace of heart knowing that your mobility equipment will be taken care of. Talk to a professional on scooters today about the best options for your next vacation.