Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative lightweight power chairs plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type 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 on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with chairs electric a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines small electric wheelchairs may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just get more info like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a website wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.