Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially 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 not large enough, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. electric wheelchair with joystick can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to 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 prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time 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 gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.