Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential 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 these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected 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 unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get 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 offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble 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 terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during 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, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin mobility wheelchairs electric and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different 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 the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.