Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed 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 be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before 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 personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with 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 guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's advised read more to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly here and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your read more chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your mobility electric chair chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but 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 learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you 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 flight. It's also a good idea to bring check here any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
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 prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.