Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to 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 one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as 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 functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
wheelchair electric wheelchair can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.