Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require you to 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 cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. 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 prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an 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 airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved 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 regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. electric powered wheelchair lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than 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 has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge 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. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other 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, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.