Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so light electric wheelchairs that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful 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 able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.