Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. 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 these details ready before you go 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?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that 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 crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with 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 assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your 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 also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered 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 will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can outdoor electric wheelchair fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, 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 pleasure of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.