Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will 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 prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind electric wheelchair wheels of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.