Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart 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 are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or 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 the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. 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 offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make 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 might require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain narrow electric wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.