Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that 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. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to lightest electric wheelchair travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider read more bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about website their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make attendant controlled electric power wheelchair your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire check here about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.