Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for 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 specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that 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 your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.
Before you book 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 into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
elderly electric wheelchair will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After 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 extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.