Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an 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 so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding 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. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines 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 in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for more info seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you here prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment here and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents 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 are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair here will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, here but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.