Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device 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 wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last 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 can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. wheelchair electric wheelchair can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. 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 affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.