Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "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 carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is crucial in busy travel times.
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 operated on the basis of 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 must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of 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 in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting chairs electric on a plane is a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it helps them save money.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.