Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows 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. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important 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 wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent 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 way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. lightest electric wheelchair with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
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 the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.