Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely 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. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to 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 information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing 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 damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential for read more flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.