Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin 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 inspected 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 an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem lightweight power chairs daunting 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 you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.