Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted 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 to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time 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 information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of 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 your flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue 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 possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of here the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure 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 will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, 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 will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.