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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. electric wheelchair brands can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying 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 to ensure proper equipment storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.
