Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan 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. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. electric lightweight wheelchairs should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on 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 so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
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 method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's 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 inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will help 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 airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.