Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to move 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 requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs 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. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair lightweight power chair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.