Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to 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 are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and 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 during your journey. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make electric power chair sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.