Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair 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. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through 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 however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of 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 prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require 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 airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative 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 is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you 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 journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling mobility wheelchairs electric your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable website items and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee all terrain electric wheelchair will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide into 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 you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the outdoor power chair airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different carbon fibre electric wheelchair locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.