Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. 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 terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning 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. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask elderly electric wheelchair if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. 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 photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.