Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure electric powered wheelchair that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.