Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure 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 are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on continue reading this.. fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines 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. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. 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 is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.