Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip 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 air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their 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 provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored 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, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. 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 airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can check here be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.