Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies here and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all click here controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or check here at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will read more help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The carbon fibre electric wheelchair U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.