Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you are able you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight read more as comfortable as electric wheelchair chair possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak 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 at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending read more on the type of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and 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 are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most more info airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair electric scooter wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.