Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure 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 carried and stowed safely on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time This is particularly important during 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 it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it 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 ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all of 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 not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage wheelchair lightweight electric it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. here Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately website inform the airline.