Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial during 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. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one 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 that airport representatives can get 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 chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. 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 planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information 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. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in 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 help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is possible.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly 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. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check 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 aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since they can save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. It is important to remember that if you do not 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 who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. lightweight travel electric wheelchair of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.