Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight so 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. 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 to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will here be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair 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.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.