Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. electric lightweight wheelchair ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for 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. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since they can save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like cushioned 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 an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.