Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and at the 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 ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is particularly important when electric powered wheelchair you travel for longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. 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 offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.